Nudism is generally defined as the practice of going nude, especially in a mixed social setting. While accurate as far as it goes, the standard definition fails to grasp the “why” of nudism — why do people choose to be nudists? Individual responses to that question vary greatly. For some, nudism is a carefully considered lifestyle; for others, it is no more complicated than a day at the nearest nude beach. What connects these two extremes is the sense of freedom nudist activities provide. It may be a matter of simple comfort, first-time skinny-dippers frequently marvel at how good it feels to be clothes-free or there may be something more profound. For many, the social nudity that helps define nudism is personally liberating; through it, we come not only to accept ourselves but others. As we say here at Bare Mountain, “Body Acceptance is the Idea, Nude Recreation is the Way.”

Broadly speaking, anyone who practices nude recreation, social nudity, or both. By that standard, there are many millions of nudists worldwide, especially in Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. According to a 2006 Roper Poll, one in four Americans roughly 70 million people have skinny-dipped or sunbathed in the nude. And while not all of them are nudists, the rapid growth the nude recreation industry has experienced in recent years suggests many are. No longer confined to small, secretive enclaves, today’s nudists have a variety of recreational and social outlets. Publicly owned sites like Miami-Dade County’s Haulover Beach, Long Island’s Fire Island, Toronto’s Hanlan’s Point, and San Diego’s Black’s Beach now welcome nudists, as do hundreds of clubs, resorts, and campgrounds across North America.

A number of things. But first, it’s important to know what they don’t mean. Misconceptions aside, nudism is not a code word for “sex” (see below). When nudists talk about “social nudity” and “nude recreation” they mean just that, nude group activities. The variety of activities varies tremendously. There are nude backpackers, canoeists, kayakers, scuba divers even skydivers. For less adventurous types, there is everything from the traditional day trip to the nude beach or swimming hole to house parties, chartered cruises and weekend excursions to nude resorts or campgrounds. Most things that can be done clothed can be done unclothed and usually, it’s a lot more fun.

This gets a bit complicated, but the short answer is “no.” As indicated above, there are public beaches where nudity is perfectly legal. So too are there private clubs and resorts that are either clothing-optional or where nudity is actually required. Legality is seldom an issue at these places. Nonetheless, while laws that specifically prohibit nudity and equate it with “indecent exposure” are rare, that shouldn’t be taken as an invitation to get naked “anytime, anyplace.” If you undress in the village square, you’re likely to get arrested for something be it indecent exposure, disturbing the peace, or creating a public nuisance. Even if the law is on your side, public nudity is problematic in many jurisdictions. An arrest sometimes depends not on what the law says, but on what police or prosecutors think it says or wants it to say. In some places, women are still harassed for breastfeeding in public, and parents are still prosecuted for taking innocent nude photos of their children. In more enlightened jurisdictions, a sharp distinction is made between lewd activity and simple nudity, such as sunbathing and skinny-dipping.

Absolutely! Nudism is about body acceptance and body awareness, which makes it appropriate for everyone. Therefore, families with children are welcome at nudist venues and events. Any venue or event that purports to be “nudist” but excludes children should be viewed with skepticism. Such exclusions are appropriate in some cases. A grueling nude hike or a late evening dance at a club or resort come to mind. But the exclusion of children is sometimes used as a signal that an event is sexual in nature. We have no interest in passing judgment on sexual activities among consenting adults; however, we adamantly reject the use of the term “nudism” as a cover for sexual activity. Nudists do not deny the sexual nature of human beings, but they reject the all too prevalent view in our society that nudity and sex are synonymous, and that children should be “protected” from nudity regardless of context. To repeat: nude is not lewd.

Only you know if nudism is right for you. Some people enjoy being nude in the privacy or their own home or apartment, but can’t imagine being nude on a public beach or in a resort. That’s all right. Nudism is not something that should be forced, either on yourself or others. Perhaps the best way to “become a nudist” is with the help of a friend or spouse who is a nudist. Of course, that isn’t always possible. Another option is to contact a nudist organization near you. Most local and regional nudist groups welcome new members and do their best to ease them into the world of nudism. If all else fails, why not just check out your nearest nude beach, hot spring, or swimming hole? You don’t have to take your clothes off right away; do it gradually if you prefer. Or, if it simply doesn’t feel right, just leave. You can always come back and try again. But remember: if you go to a clothing-optional site and remain clothed for too long, people might start taking you for a gawker.

This is common. Typically, women are warier than men of clothing-optional venues. But everyone, male and female, has “body issues.” For some, the idea of being seen nude and seeing others nude is filled with psychological tension. A spouse, friend or partner can help reduce the tension, but only if caution and sensitivity are exercised. Remember, every nudist had a “first time.” Many who were most reluctant initially are now avid nudists. And remember, too, that there is a line between encouragement and coercion. Don’t cross it if you want to introduce someone to nudism.

Bare Mountain is the perfect place for people who are new to social nudism. Everyone had a “first-time,” and each person gets comfortable at his or her own pace. No one will pressure you to take your clothes off during your first several visits. Members dress – or not – depending on the weather and what is comfortable for them. Nudity is required, however, to use the pool and the hot tub. Many first-timers ease into nudity by wearing a long t-shirt, or a sarong-type garment when not in the water; or by wearing a towel. People tend to overcome their concerns when they discover that, among nudists, there is every type of body, and no one stares.

“Nude recreation is the opportunity to embrace life in the most natural way, often in a beautiful outdoor setting. It feels good to be naked; to have the warm sun, soft breeze, and cool water on your whole body. Without clothes, social class distinctions disappear and we are all accepted regardless of physical size, shape, or body condition. Nudists enjoy the freedom of being clothes-free in appropriate settings, and the right to choose to wear clothes for comfort and practicality.”

Bare Mountain Nudist Club maintains normal standards of social behavior in a wholesome, family-friendly environment. The atmosphere is relaxed, and members and visitors are free to join in activities, or not. Everyone should feel comfortable, and behavior requiring an apology is not tolerated.

Almost never happens. Family-oriented nudist clubs are far less sexual than clothed places where bikinis, thongs, and provocative clothing are worn. Since social nudism is based on body acceptance, tolerance would be the general reaction (except, of course, if it is accompanied by intentional, unacceptable, sexual behavior). And, in the unlikely event an erection occurs, a man can cover himself with a towel.

As with all aspects of social nudity, we expect everyone to be respectful of others. In keeping with that principle, we have instituted a policy that restricts smoking in the common areas of our property. Smoking is only allowed in designated areas at the NE end of the pool, the picnic table on the east end of the common ground lawn and inside private RV’s with the owners’ permission. Smoking is NOT permitted inside the rental cabins or the clubhouse.

Bare Mountain Retreat does not operate a restaurant or snack bar. Visitors are invited to use the club’s fully equipped kitchen (including refrigerator) and a large outdoor grill. Cold, bottled water, soft drinks, and snacks are available in the clubhouse for a small charge. Picnic tables and an indoor eating area are available. Check our calendar for party dinners (small charge).

There is very limited internet access in the clubhouse. However, escaping to the mountain is an opportunity to get away from all of the cares, worries, and stress of everyday life. Cell phones do not work on Bare Mountain and landline phone access is limited but available in case of emergencies.

Bare Mountain Retreat does have tent sites on the mountain and RV sites are available as well. Be sure to contact us and let us know when you plan to visit and we will let you know what will be available at that time.

Pets are the responsibility of their owners while on club grounds. Pet waste must be removed and disposed of properly. Pets are to be on a leash or under the direct control of the owner at all times. No pets are allowed in club buildings, pool area or on the Common Ground lawn. Uncontrolled barking or other noise is not permitted.

If you’re not wearing something over your bottom, please sit on your towel. If you lose something, ask where the “lost and found” is located. If you’d like to purchase a souvenir towel, shirt, or other memento, please ask. To ensure the privacy and comfort of members and visitors, the club has restrictions regarding photography on the property. Feel free to ask any of our volunteers who checked you in, or who are on the membership committee any questions you may have about etiquette, club policies, accommodations, etc. Of course, you can ask any one of our friendly members, but you may not always get an accurate answer if they forget something!