for those seeking a relaxed and liberating atmosphere, certain natural spots offer an inviting ambiance reminiscent of the carefree spirit of past decades. on warmer days, these locations can attract a significant number of visitors, creating a vibrant scene.
during the week, the atmosphere tends to be more tranquil, with a smaller gathering of individuals enjoying the serenity.
a notable characteristic of these swimming areas is the prevalence of nude bathers. while weekends might bring a livelier, and at times noisier, crowd, weekdays offer a more subdued experience.
be aware that access roads can be unpaved and may have potholes, though generally manageable. litter might be present near parking areas, and patches of poison oak are a possibility, so tread carefully. the riverbeds are often rocky, and the water can be quite cold.
furthermore, reaching the prime swimming spots may involve a walk.
navigating to hidden gems: directions and access
detailed directions are crucial for reaching these secluded natural retreats. for instance, one popular spot is accessible by taking highway 1 north towards mendocino.
turn right onto little lake road, which is the first right after the main mendocino turnoff. continue eastbound on little lake road for approximately four to five miles until you spot a sign for mendocino woodlands. at this point, follow the dirt road leading to the woodlands retreat.
instead of entering the campground, bear right and follow that road for about a quarter mile until it terminates in a parking area adjacent to lilies.
alternatively, to streamline your journey from mendocino, you can drive approximately three miles. follow the road until you encounter a second yellow gate.
shortly beyond this gate, at a junction of several roads, turn right onto a dirt road that leads to the designated parking area. this alternative route can shave off a mile from your travel time. it's highly recommended to bring water shoes or old footwear to navigate the rocky riverbed comfortably.
upon reaching the designated path to the swimming area, you'll likely need to wade through ankle-deep water to reach a mixed sand and gravel shoreline.
these locations are particularly popular with gay men. the water typically remains cool with a gentle current, contributing to a relaxing experience. if you encounter clothed swimmers, a simple solution is to move further downstream to find more secluded and accepting areas.
important considerations for visitors
it's vital to be aware of the rules and regulations in place.
these areas are generally not intended for public displays of sexual activity, as undercover enforcement has been known to issue citations. respecting these guidelines ensures the continued accessibility and enjoyment of these natural spaces for everyone.
a closer look at a specific riverside haven
let's delve into another notable location.
head east on elm avenue, then make a left at the initial traffic signal onto high street. high street eventually merges with route 49 for about two miles, after which the road widens. the trailhead to the beach is situated behind a yellow metal gate on the right side of the road.
from this gate, descend the dirt road. where the dirt road meets the bike path at the bottom of the incline, proceed straight across towards the river via a trail.
this trail will guide you to a modest beach frequented by nude swimmers.
additional small, clothing-optional beaches can be found by walking downstream. reaching the main beach typically takes only a few minutes. this particular swimming hole is situated between marysville and grass valley, northeast of sacramento.
for those planning a visit, carrying a watch to precisely follow directions, along with water shoes or old footwear for wading through shallow river sections, is advisable for exploring other concealed clothing-optional coves.
beach amenities and atmosphere
the primary beach area is complemented by several smaller, sandy pockets scattered along both riverbanks.
this spot is a favored swimming destination for a diverse group, including a significant number of gay men. it's worth noting that some sections of this area are designated for clothed bathers. the transition to the clothing-optional zone is typically marked at the conclusion of the buttermilk bend trail, often indicated by a "trail end" sign.
camping is not permitted in this specific area.
on weekend afternoons, you can expect to find around 30 men enjoying the surroundings. reports describe this swimming hole as exceptionally beautiful, featuring large rocks ideal for sunbathing. a further advantage is that the calmer sections of the water offer a comfortable temperature for a refreshing dip during the summer months.
alternative routes and further exploration
during weekdays, it's highly probable that you'll have this entire area to yourself, providing an even more serene experience.
for those coming from auburn, the recommended route involves taking highway 49 north. continue on pleasant valley road for approximately seven miles. cross the river bridge, then turn right into a parking area. a trail commences from this parking lot. follow this trail, and at a small post marked "buttermilk bend trail," turn left.
as you venture further upstream, you'll encounter a second pool.
while nudity might occur here, the majority of the bathers are typically heterosexual. continuing upstream leads to a third pool, which is consistently frequented by entirely nude and predominantly gay individuals.
exploring new england's natural offerings
for those in the vicinity of brattleboro, take state route 30 north.
the turnoff is located just before a substantial bridge spanning the rock river. pull over and park on the eastern end of the bridge. exercise extreme caution when crossing the busy state route. proceed a short distance up the road, and on the right, you'll find a dirt road leading towards some camps; be aware that some of these structures may be abandoned and in disrepair.
it's best to respectfully bypass any active residents, honoring their privacy, and continue along the dirt path leading towards the river.
exercise caution on the potentially treacherous rocky terrain. traveling light is recommended. soon, you will come across a clothing-optional sign. at this point, you can disrobe and join other men. you can cross the river at this point to a path on the opposite bank, or proceed to the rapids at the next bend, where many welcoming, naked individuals can be found.
be prepared to get wet if you misjudge your footing in the pool.
this tranquil swimming hole is nestled deep within a wooded area. as is common with many quarries, one side features a sheer rock face. before plunging in, it's prudent to ascertain the depth for safety. nudity is a well-established tradition here, and you'll commonly encounter a few gay swimmers and sunbathers.
vermont's quarry and river experiences
from auburn, head north on route 13 miles towards the village of woodbury.
once you observe the white woodbury methodist church on your left, turn right onto cabot road. proceed about 0.4 miles, continuing along this road and staying to the right at a fork approximately 0.5 miles further. at this juncture, continue straight for another 0.7 miles.
the road surface will deteriorate significantly.
park your vehicle and proceed for a short distance through the woods to reach the quarry. this location offers a highly enjoyable spot for swimming and cliff jumping into the brewster river. the question of whether the water is genuinely warmer or if it merely feels that way due to the reluctance to leave is a common sentiment.
the trails in this vicinity have also been noted for being "cruisy," suggesting potential for social interaction.
upon arriving and beginning your walk, the initial series of pools is typically used by clothed bathers. it is only after crossing the river that you will encounter nude swimmers.
the main pool here is surprisingly deep. nudity is a common practice in several sections of the river. the crowds are generally small and notably gay-centric.
accessing waterfall swimming holes
take route 30 for approximately 10 miles.
park in the designated parking area. walk past the parking lot and over the covered bridge to the opposite side of the river. here, a sign indicates the commencement of the primary trail. this trail leads to waterfalls and various swimming holes accessible to the general public, offering diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities.