COBC: Clothing-optional Opportunities in B.C. (and beyond)
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Washington, U.S.A.

This section lists some spots in the neighbouring states which might be of interest to people from BC. It's not intended to be a complete listing.

Areas Listed.
Usage changes over time. I encourage you to use discretion in locating and using the locations listed.

ALERT!: In Washington State, police cannot arrest a person for being nude unless someone complains. Then they may arrest. Over the years, Washington has consistently used arrests to shut down nude beaches.

Washington.

ALERT!: In Washington State, police cannot arrest a person for being nude unless someone complains. Then they may arrest. Over the years, Washington has consistently used arrests to shut down nude beaches.

PORT ANGELES: Dungeness Wildlife Refuge. [Map]
Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is almost due south of Victoria, across the Juan de Fuca Straight, on the north end of the Olympic Peninsula. The refuge is located on Dungeness Spit near the town of Sequim (pron. "Skwim") in Dungeness State Park.
Directions (from Victoria): Take the ferry to Port Angeles and head east on Hwy 101 to Sequim (about 17 miles). Turn north on Kitchen-Dick Road and follow the signs north for 3 miles to the Dungeness Recreation Area. Go through the recreation area to the Refuge parking lot. Parking fee is $3. Several trails lead down the bluffs to the beach. Head west (left) until the beach is suitably deserted. A creek at about 1.5 miles is popular with clothed visitors, but there are several more miles of beach after the creek.
Directions (from Olympia): Head north on Hwy 101 through Sequim and then follow the above directions.
Note: it's possible to get stranded by a high tide, so be aware of when the high tide will occur. Click here for current tides.

MARROWSTONE ISLAND: Fort Flagler State Park -- Nude possibilities.
I've seen a report about nude possibilities here, but I don't have anything more specific. There appear to be a lot of remote beaches in the park, but there are also 100+ campsites.
Directions (from Seattle or Edmonds): Take Kingston Ferry or Bainbridge Island Ferry, and follow signs to Hood Canal Bridge. Cross over and drive five miles, then turn right onto easily-missed Hwy. 19 (Beaver Valley Rd.). Travel 10 miles to the Chimacum four-way stop. Take a right on Chimacum-Center Rd. At four-way stop in Port Hadlock, turn right onto Oak Bay Rd. Go approximately one mile and turn left onto SR 116. Fort Flagler is at end of road, approximately 10 miles from the Oak Bay Rd.
Directions (from Port Townsend): Drive south out of town on Sims Way and continue south on Hwy 20 for approximately 2.5 miles to the stop light. Continue straight onto Hwy 19. Travel three miles to Ness' Corner Road and turn left. At the four way stop in Port Hadlock, continue straight onto Oak Bay Road. After approximately one mile, turn left onto State Route 116. Follow the route to the end of the road and directly into the park. [Last info, Sept/2006]

ORCAS ISLAND: Doe Bay Village Resort & Retreat Center.
Doe Bay features a pair of clothing-optional hot tubs with a spectacular ocean view. A wonderful CO sauna is adjacent and the beach is down a short path. The rest of the resort is NOT clothing optional. Camping and cabins are available. Doe Bay Village Resort, PO Box 437, Olga WA 98279. (360) 376-2291. Email: <info@doebay.com>. [Last info 1999]
Note: A ferry schedule can be found at www.orcasisle.com or for general ferry information check the website of the Washington State Ferries or call 1-800-84-ferry for an automated service.

POINT ROBERTS: West Beach.
"It's not too well known, but the west beach in Point Roberts does see nude use, mostly at high tide. When the tide is low, a broad mud flat is exposed, and many people walk there from the south, and some illegally cross the border from Canada. At high tide, however, the beach more difficult to access, and is usually (but not always) empty. This beach has seen nude use (with discretion) for decades."
Directions: "There is a small parking area at the extreme NW corner of Point Roberts right at the Canada-US boundary monument. There are two very steep and hazardous trails on the US side descending the cliff to a sand and pebble beach (mostly pebble). The water can cover the smooth mud flats up to 6 or more feet. The swimming is pretty good, and the water is fairly warm as the tide comes in across the flats. The sharp and nasty pebble beach ends very abruptly at the mud flats, which is very easy on bare feet. About 400 metres south of the Canada-US border there is a huge boulder near the shore that always pokes above the high water mark. Nice for basking or for leaping into the water." [M.L., June 2002]

BELLINGHAM: Teddy Bear Cove -- Not Nude! [Trip report]
Teddy Bear Cove (a.k.a. Teddy Bare Cove) on Bellingham's Chuckanut Drive has been under attack in recent years and nudity is no longer permitted.

BELLINGHAM: Larrabee State Park (Clayton Beach). [Map]
Clayton Beach, in Larrabee State Park on Bellingham's Chuckanut Drive, has been used by nudists for 40 years. It became part of the state parks system several years ago and, since then, nude bathers have occasionally been ticketed by park rangers. An attempt failed in 1998 to have it official designated for clothing optional use. [Last info: 1998]
Directions (from Bellingham/Fairhaven): From Bellingam go south on State Street intil it runs into Chuckanut Drive. Or from I-5, take exit 250 and go west on Old Fairhaven Parkway. Follow Chuckanut Drive (Hwy 11) south from Fairhaven. The parking lot for Clayton Beach is a short distance past the main Larrabee State Park entrance, on the left hand side.
Note: "I went to Clayton beach 3 times, twice during the week and once on the weekend..only once was someone else nude, and only after I had asked him if there was a nude area at the beach... If you like having to constantly watch for people walking by and slipping your bathing suit off and on, off and on, off and on, then this is the place for you! Certainly not recommended" [Terry, 99 Aug 24]
Note: "Clayton Beach is definitely not nude! It's a state park, heavily trafficked and patrolled. About a mile south of Clayton Beach along the train tracks is a nice little nude beach which is pretty remote, lightly trafficked (though it's been growing in notoriety) and utterly devoid of authorities.This could be the Dogfish Beach, mentioned below, but I've never heard it called by anything other than 'the nude beach'." [T, Dec 2003]

BELLINGHAM: Dogfish Beach. [Photo (north)] [Photo (south)]
Directions (from Bellingham/Fairhaven): "Getting to Fairhaven from Bellingham is as simple as going south on State Street until it runs into Chuckanut Drive. Continue south on Chuckanut (Highway 11) for 7 miles to Dogfish. You can get to Fairhaven from I-5 without going through Bellingham by taking exit 250 and go west on Old Fairhaven Parkway. You'll pass the North Trails parking lot for Teddy Bear Cove only about 1 mile out of Fairhaven. The stairs leading to the path, marked by a sign, are about 200 yards past the parking lot and can be reached by walking along the interurban trail above the road. About 5 miles out you'll pass Larrabee park and then Clayton Beach parking lot. Approximately 6 miles out you'll reach a scenic pull-off with a historic marker describing Chuckanut Drive history. This pull-off is actually right above Dogfish Beach, but it can't be seen from the road. For those sure-footed mountain goats that want to shorten the hike, there is a steep trail leading directly down to the beach. I recommend that kids and inexperienced climbers take the regular trail only another half mile further down the road at another pull-off with a gate blocking the road down to the tracks. Do not park in front of the gate; the Oyster farm owners will tow your vehicle. The state patrol have also ticketed cars for parking too close to the road. Get down to the railroad tracks and go right along the tracks for a half mile. Take off your clothes if you haven't already. Most days, I would remove my clothes when I reached the tracks. BEWARE of the trains. They're bigger than you and you can't hear them from around the corner very well."
Directions (from the south): "If you're coming from the south, you can take exit 236 and go west toward Bow-Edison about 4 miles, take a right at the four corner stop onto Highway 11. The beach is about 5 miles from here over a short turning bridge, past the Oyster Creek Inn, and around lots of sharp turns." [J.S., June 2001]

CONWAY: Lake Associates Recreation Club (LARC) (AANR).
LARC is located at Lake McMurray near Conway, 27 miles north of Everett. Facilities are currently quite minimal, consisting mostly of a hot tub and 65 acres of woodland. Clothing-optional.
Directions: From Interstate-5, take the Conway/Lake McMurray exit, go east 5 miles to Hwy 9, head north for 1.7 miles. Address: 2174 Hwy 9.
Mailing address: PO Box 654, Conway, WA 98238. (360) 424-6833. [Last info 2000]

MONROE: Lake Bronson Club (AANR). [Photo] [Trip report]
Located near Sultan, WA which is on US Hwy 2 east of Everett and Monroe, Bronson is the most beautiful club in the area. After several years of decline, Bronson is once again be a wonderful place to relax. Hopefully, they will be recover from losing 200 members. Highlights include a beautiful lake, hiking trails, and a spectacular waterfall. PO Box 1135, Sultan, WA 98294. (360) 793-0286. Fax: (360) 793-0841. Email: <Blakely@LakeBronson.com>. [Updated June/2003]
Directions from Vancouver (driving time: 3 hours): Head south on Hwy 99 and I-5 to U.S. Hwy 2, just after crossing a bridge into Everett, WA. Head east and follow the following directions...
Directions from Everett (driving time: 30 min): Head east on U.S. Hwy 2, toward Monroe and Wenatchee. Cross a bringe and a long causeway. Stay to the right as you approach the hills, sticking with Hwy 2 through Monroe and Sultan. As you leave Sultan, turn left onto Sultan Basin Road and follow the twists and turns for several miles until reaching a gate and fence on your left. You will need the combination to get in, so call the club in advance.
Directions from Seattle (driving time: ???): Take Route 522 East, through Bothell (or from I-405 just east of Bothell) until it ends at US Hwy 2, just west of Monroe. Head east through Monroe and refer to the Everett directions...

INDEX: Rumour of nude swimming hole.
"There used to be a campground near Index, WA with a terrific pool/swimming area cut out of the river. It was clothing optional but not a resort as such. Does anyone know if it's still in operation?"

STEVENS PASS: Scenic Hot Spring. [Old Photo] [New Photo] [Map]
Description: Located on private land near Stevens Pass, the view is indeed "scenic"---but not breathtaking---looking across a valley to the mountains on the far side, with Hwy 2 winding its way up to the pass. At one time there were 4 large pools here, made from wood, cement, and plastic liners. Temperatures ranged from "just hot enough" to "almost too hot". But the structures were built without permits or permission. In October 2001, "No Trespassing" signs were posted and the pools were demolished. The Sheriff started charging trespassers.
Four years later, the land has been resold and the current owner is trying to resolve a multitude of legal and sanitation issues in order to once again make the springs available for public use. The huge Monster Tub has been restored and has been divided down the center to provide hot-hot, and medium-hot soaking. The water remains as clear and silky as ever with little sulfur smell. Apparently the largest pool is back in use while he owner.
"The owner plans to build Japanese-style rock pools in several mountainside locations and keep them as rustic as possible. In the lower area of the property, below the powerlines, there are plans to improve the gravel road and provide a reasonably-secure parking area. Amenities such as proper toilet facilities and showers will be provided. An entrance fee is envisioned eventually." [Rick, July 2005]
In the past, about 50% to 75% of the people were nude.
Directions: From Everitt, follow Hwy 2 east through Monroe, Sultan, and finally Skykomish. As you near Stevens Pass you will cross a bridge to the south side of the Tye River. In the distance, directly in front of you, you will see the highway take a sharp left and head steeply up a mountain side. On your right, just past Mile Marker 59, look for Forest Service Road 850 (the road is not marked but is the first and only one before the sharp turn). FS850 is gated 100m in. There is room here for about 7 cars. Be sure not to block the gate.
On foot, hike up FS850, past the gate, for 750m to the BPA power lines. (A poorly marked bypasses the second switchback.) Continue up the road as it follows the power lines. A well used trail heads off steeply to the right to bypass the fourth switchback. Follow the road again to the crest of the hill, halfway between the third and fourth towers, where another well used trail heading off into the trees. The trail has been widened about two-thirds up in anticipation of construction equipment. It heads up to the right into the treeline and upslope. From here, you simply follow the trail as it heads steadily uphill. When it finally turns back on itself and levels off, you are nearly there. Wear hiking boots and allow an hour for the hike in. [Last info Rick, July 2005]
Note: 100m past FS850 on Hwy 2, there is a chain-up area that has previously been reported as a parking area. You may be ticketed if you choose to park here.

PUGET SOUND: Puget Sound Nautical Naturists.
Don't know much except what it says on the web site. [Last info: July 2000]

WHIDBEY ISLAND: Cedar Hollow Beach (in Fort Ebey State Park) -- Nude possibilities.
We spent several hours naked on the Cedar Hollow Beach in the late afternoon on a hot, sunny weekday in Aug/2006. It is a picturesue beach at the base of some sandy cliffs. The sand is soft,. You might have to search for a big enough spot to occupy, but the beach is quite long, so finding a spot shouldn't take too long. The trail to the beach is about 3/4 miles, but very steep. On the good side, the steepness probably keeps some people away and you can see people long before they read the beach. On the bad side, they will probably see you first. I would recommend avoiding the area just south of the stairs since new arrivals will have a close-up view, from directly above, before you have time to notice them. Fort Ebey Park has extensive trails and numerous hikers and bikers. Some people apparantly arrive at this beach by following the shoreline from either end. They will probably just be passing through.
Directions: From Hwy. 20, two miles north of Coupeville, turn west on Libbey Rd. and follow it 1.5 miles to Hill Valley Dr. Turn left and proceed to the park gates. You will see two gates. The one to the right leads to the campground. The one straight ahead leads to the beach. Follow this road (Pt. Partridge Rd.) to the end and park. Follow the well marked trail to the beach.[Last info, Sept/2006]

EDMONDS: Point Wells (Peter Point) Beach.
Located on private land in Woodway (between Edmonds and Shoreline), Point Wells has periodically seen nude use for many years. Gay men reportedly make up the majority of beach users, but the beach is open to everyone. Gays tend to gather at the south end of the beach and others go further north. The Shoreline Police and Burlington Northern cops are pretty strict about enforcing the no tresspassing rule with regard to the train tracks as a result of the deaths of pedestrians, but they generally do not make it to the beach. When they do, they issue warnings. The nude section is north of the oil refinery at Point Wells. The beach has become a popular attraction from the windows of the "Sounder" commuter train which began operation in 2004.
Directions: To get there it is best to walk on the beach at low tide from either Richmond Beach or Edmonds. Then you can avoid the tracks altogether. Many of the users trespass on either the railway or the oil refinery property. Others use kayaks to get there. [Last info 2006]

SEATTLE: Xena's Sanctuary (AANR). -- Closed ?
A new non-landed club in the Seattle area, Xena's Sanctuary states it's goal "to always provide a friendly, warm environment where acceptance is the rule for true nudists."
For more information call (206) 714-8359 or write to PO Box 5052, Bellevue, WA 98009. Email: <njtraut887@email.msn.com> [Last info: Feb 2002]

SEATTLE: LARC Seattle Area Swim Nights (SANS) --- Cancelled.
Cancelled until further notice. [Last info: Sept 2004]

SEATTLE: Magnuson Park.
The area has a long history of clothing-optional use in the past. People currently use the beach topfree and clothes-free without any problem. Some have suggested that skinny-dippers may want to inform clothed shoreline users of their intention to skinny-dip in the area. Most reportedly do not mind the nudity. Some may appreciate being informed of nude use, especially when there is no signage or they are not accustomed to skinny-dipping or sunbathing. Non-lewd nudity is not illegal in Seattle. The clothing-optional section is north of the main Swimming Beach at Magnuson Park, south of the off-leash dog area, just off the Lake Shore Promenade. [Last info: Sept 2006]
Directions: Check the park website for directions to the park and a park map.

SEATTLE: Magnuson Beach Bares.
A group founded to promote nude use of Magnuson Park.

SEATTLE: Discovery Park (Disco Beach). [Map]
Both the North and South Beach areas see some nude use, but the North Beach (just north of the Lighthouse) at Discovery Park is being promoted (by SeattleBeaches.org) as a strong candidate for development as a clothing-optional beach. • The beach is secluded enough so those that are easily offended by people going au naturel can be prepared or avoid the beach if they wish. The beach can be easily signed. • The beach is accessible for the general public to reach with Discovery Park's extensive system of trails. Law enforcement and emergency workers also have access to the beach via a restricted-access paved road. • The beach has a history of clothing-optional use. • The beach is relatively quiet (low use) • Discovery Park itself can be easily reached by bicycle and the Metro Transit Bus Service. Those who drive will find ample parking. [Last info Sept 2004, from SeattleBeaches.Org]
Directions (by bus from downtown): From downtown: Board Rt. 33, northbound on 4th Ave. Rts 19 & 24 also service the park.
Directions (from I-5 Northbound): * Take the Mercer Street exit. * Turn right at first stoplight onto Fairview Ave N. * At next set of stoplights go left onto Valley St. * Stay in far right lane that merges onto Westlake Avenue N. * Westlake Ave becomes Nickerson Street. * Go straight on Nickerson Street past Fremont Bridge and Seattle Pacific University. * Staying in left lane follow the sign to the Ballard Bridge/Emerson Street. * At 3 way stop take a left onto a ? circle viaduct and follow Emerson until you come to a 4 way flashing stop. * Take a right onto West Gilman * West Gilman becomes West Government Way * Follow West Government Way until you come to the east entrance of the Park. (about 1/2 mile) * The Visitor Center will be on the left.
Directions (from I-5 Southbound): * Take the 45th Street Exit and head west (right). * Follow 45th, staying to the right. * 45th becomes 46th Avenue North. * Follow 46th until it becomes Market Street. * Continue on Market until you reach 15th Avenue NW. * Go left on 15th Avenue NW, following it over the Ballard Bridge. * Take the first right after the bridge onto Emerson Street. * Take a right onto West Gilman at the 4 way flashing light. * W. Gilman becomes West Government Way. * Follow until you come to the East entrance of the Park. (about 1/2 mile) * The Visitor Center will be on the left.
Directions (from the Visitor Center): Continue through the park past the Visitor Center. Take a right following signs to get to North Parking Lot. (Also see signs to Daybreak Star.)To get to the North Beach (just north of the Lighthouse): Once at the North Parking Lot you can park (leave no valuables in the car) and begin the hilly walk to the beach, which takes approximately 30 minutes (Some may wish to bike down but as far as we know there is no bike lock-up area on the beach). From the parking lot follow small signs to the North Beach. Once at the water, follow the trail to the stretch of sandy beach just north of the lighthouse. (You should be able to see the lighthouse once reaching the water, it is located at the furthest west point of the park, and that should help orient you).
Note: There are only eight parking spaces down at the beach via the restricted access road. Unauthorized users of this lower road are subject to prosecution (see warning sign at top of road entrance). These spaces are reserved for disabled people, seniors over 62, and people who have children that are aged five and under. All others must walk from the bigger parking lots located about 1.5 miles away from the beach.

SEATTLE: Friends of Disco Beach.
A group founded to promote nude use of Discovery Park.

SEATTLE: Leschi Park. (GPS: N47 36.047 W122 17.28)
There is supposed to be a small nude beach north of Leschi Park on Lake Washington, but I don't have exact directions. Madrona Park seems (north of Leschi) seems more likely. Or perhaps this is referring to Howell Park a little bit further north. [Last info: Sept 2006]
Directions: 201 Lakeside Ave S. Check the park website for directions to the park.

SEATTLE: Howell Park. (GPS: N47 37.053 W122 16.866)
According to a blog in the Seattle Weekly [July 2009], the beach at tiny Howell Park on Lake Washington has become a "full on nudist beach" nestled between mansions north of I-90. Also according to the blog "Seattle police spokesperson Sean Whitcomb has heard of another nude beach somewhere in Magnolia." And a post to the LDS Skinnydippers Forum said there are two other nudist beaches in this area, but didn't name them. [Last info: July 2009]
Directions: 1740 E Howell Pl. Check the park website for directions to the park.

SEATTLE: Denny-Blaine Park. (GPS: N47 37.208 W122 16.837)
Nudity is not as common at this tiny lake-front park as topfree use, and neither are as common as they used to be. But both are still occurring and this usage is well known locally. [Last info: July 2009]
Directions: 200 Lake Washington Blvd. E. Check the park website for directions to the park.

SEATTLE: SLUGS (Sun Lovers Under Gray Skies) Naturist Travel Club (TNS).
The SLUGS are a travel club which organizes many activities including nude swims, visits to nude beaches, hot springs, nude hiking and club visits. The SLUGS, PO Box 185, Seattle, WA 98111. (206) 344-NUDE. E-Fax: (847) 589-3171. Email: <slugs@slimetrail.org>. [May 2005]

SEATTLE: SLUGS Swim Nights.
The SLUGS organize swim nights once a month for card carrying members of AANR, TNS, and local Naturist clubs.
Time: 6:00-9:00 pm  Family Swim, 9:00-11:30 pm Lap Swim and quiet time. Dates: Oct 7, Nov 4, Dec 2, Jan 6, Feb 3, Mar 3, Apr 7, May 5. [2006/2007]
Note: Click here to confirm schedule (hopefully), or contact the SLUGS for more information. [Sep 2006]

SEATTLE: NAC/BFC Swim Nights.
The Naturist Action Commitee and Body Freedom Collaberative are organizing swim nights once a month at Helen Madison Pool or Ballard Pool for card-carrying naturists.
Time: 6:00-11:30 pm. Dates: Oct 14, Nov 11, Dec 9, Jan 13, Feb 10, Mar 10. [2006/2007]
Note: Click here to confirm schedule and location, or contact Mark Storey <storey98@aol.com> for more information. [Sep 2006]

SEATTLE: Body Freedom Collaberative.
The Body Freedom Collective (BFC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the integration and acceptance of non-sexual social nudity in a variety of public and private settings. The group was formed in late 2001. Check their website for more information. [Sep 2006]

SEATTLE: Banya 5 Spa.
Banya 5 Spa has Parilka (dry sauna), Turkish steam room, cold plunge, warm salt water pool, hot pool, as well as spa services such as massage. During Co-Ed times, bathing suits are required. However, suits are not required during the Women-only (Wed 10:00am-4:00pm) or Men-only (Thu 10:00am-4:00pm) times. Check the web-site for pictures and complete information. [Last info 2007]
Update: I read some where that the Co-Ed Naturist nights have been cancelled. This may have also affected the Men-only and Women-only rules, too.

SEATTLE: Banya 5 Spa Co-Ed Naturist Nights --- Cancelled?
Co-Ed Naturist nights are held once a month on Mondays (when the Spa would normally be closed). Nudity is required. Open to all nudist and naturist organizations in the Pacific Northwest.
Update: I read some where that these nights have been cancelled.
Time: 5:00-10:00 pm. Dates: Oct 16, Nov 20, Dec 18, Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 12, Apr 16, May 21. [2006/2007]
Note: Click here to confirm schedule and location, or contact the Spa <info@banya5.com> for more information. [Sep 2006]

ISSAQUAH: Fraternity Snoqualmie Club (AANR, TNS). [Photo] [Satellite Image]
FS is a small club with a lot of long-time members and excellent facilities for kids and adults (at least when the sun shines). Volleyball, tennis, large swimming pool, large wading pool, 2 hot tubs, sauna, club house. Events include the Bare Buns Fun Run West, Nudestock music festival, and volleyball tournaments.
Directions from Vancouver (driving time: 3 hours): Head south on Hwy 99 and I-5 to Everett, WA, and follow the following directions...
Directions from Everett (driving time: 30 minutes): Head south on I-5 to the junction of I-405 just south of Everett. Take I-405 south to I-90 and head east on I-90 to the 2nd Issaquah exit (exit 17) and continue with the following directions...
Directions from Seattle (driving time: 30 min): Head east on Interstate 90 to the 2nd Issaquah exit (exit 17). Go south on Front Street to the second traffic light (Sunset Street), and continue on Front Street (which turns into Issaquah-Hobart Road) for another 3.6 miles and turn left onto S.E. 127th Street (the turn is also marked with a yellow FS sign), follow the gravel road to the top of the hill.
Address: 24050 S.E. 127th Street, Issaquah. Mailing address: PO Box 748, Issaquah, WA, 98027. Phone: (425) 392-NUDE (6833). [June/2003]

ISSAQUAH: FS Sauna Nights.
Sauna nights are open to FS and SLUGS members only. They are held October through April, on the third Saturday of each month from 6:30 to 10:30 PM.
Note: Click here to confirm schedule.

OLYMPIA: Cooper Point.
Cooper Point is located on the campus of The Evergreen State College (TESC). In 1998 there was a concerted effort by police to get rid of nudists. I haven't heard anything since then.

SHELTON: Arcadia Resort.
Located 30 minutes from Olympia, Arcadia offers 4 clothing-optional acres, hot tub, etc. This is an adults-only resort marketing romantic getaways in clothing-optional surroundings. Read the description on their website to determine if this resort is appropriate for you. Note: "lifestyles" equals "swingers".
Editorial Comment: One of my readers criticized Arcadia's inclusion on this site. He cited their lack of affiliation with any nudist organization and the adults-only rule, along with their acceptance of swingers and the availability of adult videos. Let me point out, that the goal of this site is to list places that people can experience (non-sexual) nude recreation in public (in suitable locations). Nudists do not all conform to the AANR mold. While I agree that any association of nudism with swingers is fraught with peril, this site is intended to go beyond the AANR gates and include other options. I decline to list resorts and clubs which intentionally permit sex in public places, but what happens behind closed doors is not a factor in the decision. Excluding children does NOT mean that inappropriate behaviour is tolerated. And the availability of adult videos in the privacy of a bedroom does NOT mean that inappropriate behaviour is tolerated in the public areas. The bottom line for me is: could a nudist couple go here and have a nice, nude vacation without any expectation that they swing and without people having sex in front of them. I've never been to Arcadia, so I have to rely on the words of its owner...
Owners comments: "We are not a swingers resort.  But we recognize we have guests here from all walks of life from swingers to naturists. Quite frankly they are amidst us clothed or unclothed. We just admit it and allow others their space and place. What people do in the privacy of their lodgings is their business. We offer romantic getaway lodgings and even toys and X-rated movies in the lodgings. We do not allow sexual improprieties in public areas when the public is present [i.e., unless you are the only guests at the resort]. We do not allow children. The liability is far too great to me and it thus allows adults to be adults."
Comment: I found this on the internet: "There are theme weekends, and last weekend, was the monthly (2nd weekend) Sex on the Grass theme, where couples are allowed to do whatever they like, whenever they like, I suppose within reason (or at least, by consent of all parties!) It was wonderful to make love on a blanket outside under the stars (and it was truly fantastic that it was warm enough for me to want to!) and the next day, various couples including us tucked themselves away into secluded corners or did what they liked right out on the lawn. It was great. It's not for the timid, though; voyeurs and exhibitionists will have an especially good time. If this sort of thing is NOT for you, the other three weekends are no-sex-in-shared-spaces so you won't be offended. Most but not all couples seemed to be straight and there were more piercings than you'd expect of a crowd that age."

VANTAGE: Wanapum Reservoir. (GPS: N47° 0' 1.58" W119° 59' 26.48")
Wanapum Reservoir is located just south of George, WA, which is best known for the Gorge at George amphitheatre. By all accounts, the basalt cliffs make a spectacular backdrop for the sandy beaches.
Directions: From Seattle, head east on I-90 through Ellensburg and Vantage, and across the Columbia River. Take exit 143 (Silica Road) about 5 miles northeast of the bridge. Turn left through the the I-90 underpass. After half a mile, turn left onto Vantage Road and follow it to the end (about 4 miles). Park near the boat ramp and take a trail to the left, hiking another half mile to the beaches.
Note: A State Park parking pass is required to park here (available where fishing licenses are sold).
Comment: "Wanapum Reservoir listed in 'The Guide' is a thing of the past in my opinion. The reservoir is the base camping site for the Gorge at George Amphitheater." [Jim, July 99] But other people seem to disagree, and say that if there are crowds you simply move farther from the parking lot.

VANTAGE: Wanapum Dam.
If crowds at Wanapum Reservoir deter you, you may be able to find more privacy south of the Wanapum Dam, near Beverly, where several rough roads lead to the river. Unfortunately, you won't find any sandy beaches here...only rocks.
Directions: From Vantage cross the Columbia River and head south on Hwy 243 toward Beverly. After passing the Wanapum Dam, look for roads on your right.

VANTAGE: Priest Rapids Dam.
"Another of my favorite spots is just below and above Priest Rapids Dam about 25 miles south of Vantage, Wa. The south side of the river is only accessible from one road and again it is a great place that I enjoy for peace and solitude." [Jim, June 2001]
Directions: From I-90, just east of Vantage head south on Hwy 243. Turn right on Hwy 240 and cross the Columbia River into the Hanford Nuclear Research area. Immediately turn right and headup river to Priest Rapids.

MOSES LAKE: Moses Lake --- Unconfirmed.
These instructions were supposed to lead to Potholes Reservior, but it is clear from Google that they actually lead to Moses Lake. [Last info: 2005]
Directions: From I-90, just west of Moses Lake, take exit 174 and turn south on Hanson Rd across I-90. Turn left on Westlake St/Sage Rd and turn right on Montana St/Sand Dunes Rd., near a powerline crossing marked with a sign saying "D5-NE". Follow this Sand Dunes Rd. for 3 miles to the south where a series of roads will branch off toward the lake. For Google directions, click here.

MOSES LAKE: Potholes Reservior.
Further east on I-90, near the town of Moses Lake, Potholes Reservior State Park has seen nude use for at least 10 years. Although you can find a spot to call your own by wading, it is best if you have a small boat such as a kayak or canoe. Although officials have not officially sanctioned nude sunbathing, they have included "sunbathing" in the official usage policy. [Last info: 2005]
Directions: From I-90, just west of Moses Lake, take exit 174 and turn south on Hanson Rd across I-90. Turn right on S. Frontage Rd E. and drive 2.4 miles. Turn left on a public fishing and hunting road just after passing under some power lines (GPS: N47 6.213 W119 23.747) and drive another 2.5 miles. Turn left and follow the left fork to a parking lot (GPS: N47 4.361 W119 22.161) or the right fork to a boat launch. Then you can follow the long sandy paths to the north (left) along this mostly deserted end of the lake. (I derived these directions from a rough map and confirmed them on Google. Directions to the parking lot are here.

MOSES LAKE: Seep Lake.
I've heard unconfirmed rumours about a good spot on Seep Lake (wildlife preserve?) near Potholes Reservoir (or O'Sullivan Dam), but I haven't been able to get directions. Anybody?

CARSON: St. Martin (Wind River) Hot Springs -- NO ACCESS. [Trip report] [Trip report] [Photo: one of the pools]
Alert: St. Martin Hot Springs has recently been closed by the owner of the land. Public access is not possible without trespassing.
"Located near the Columbia River, east of Vancouver, WA, St. Martin Hot Springs is a set of three pools on the east bank of the Wind River north of Carson, Washington. Depending on the time of year, the pools range in temperature up to 104 degrees. Two of the pools hold up to 8 folks while the small pool will hold a cosy 2. These are natural rock pools and have a sandy bottom. You will encounter another pool just prior to arriving at the 3 popular pools; this one is lukewarm and full of moss. It appears to have seen use in years past. The springs are clothing optional. The parking area and springs are on private property, owned by Mrs. St. Martin. Please respect the area and the access she has provided for us to the hot springs!"
Directions: "In Vancouver, WA, turn east from I5 or 205 onto the Lewis & Clark Hwy (Hwy 14) and drive Approximately 50 miles. Just past Carson, cross the Senator Al Henry bridge over the Wind River and take the second left onto Berge Road. Drive 3/4 mile, then turn left onto Indian Cabin Road and continue for 3/4 mile. As you drop into the canyon, the pavement ends at a hairpin corner and turns to gravel. The road then forks at the river. Stay to the right. The road turns from gravel to a narrow dirt road and crosses a concrete bridge. Just past the bridge you will find the parking area and an information kiosk/pay station. Stow your belongings out of sight and lock your vehicle."
Fees: $2.00/vehicle plus $2.00/adult. No charge for Native Americans or children under 18.
The trail: "The trail at the trailhead is deceiving; it appears fine for the first hundred yards or so then deteriorates rapidly. Drop down to the river bank at the first opportunity otherwise you will be clambering on a dangerously slippery hillside. Hike upriver for 1/2 mile or so over and around all manner of rocks and boulders. This hike is not for novices---do not attempt it if you are unsure on uneven surfaces. Wear sturdy hiking boots and plan on the hike taking a minimum of 45 minutes to an hour. Do not attempt the hike in wet weather or darkness. The area has a lot of poison oak, if you brush up against it, rinse off in COLD water to remove the oils. If you don't know what poison oak looks like, take the time to learn about it if you plan to visit this area. Bring plenty of drinking water as you will expend plenty of energy on the trail, especially if the day is warm." [Note: Poison oak references: click 1, 2, or 3.]
Camping: "A new camp ground/fishing access area is under construction within 1/4 mile of the parking area at this writing. Where the road forks, take a left and follow the gravel road along the river to the campground. There are 4 primitive sites. The foundations/holding tanks have been set for 2 pit toilets. This area is a "Indian Treaty Fishing Access Area" and is being constructed under the supervision of the Army Corps of Engineers. The campground also has an old (60's?) mobile home with rain damaged furniture sitting out front. Signs on the home indicate this is the La Due tribe. I have no idea what campground fees will be. Several other area campgrounds are in the surrounding area within 10 miles." [Bruce McAlary, June 1998]
Comment: "My wife and I visited this hotspring on October 13th 2001. There were about 18 people there while we were there. Every single person there was nude. The springs themselves were quite nice, but very cozy. The first pool on the way up to the waterfalls was clear and a nice warm temperature. At the main pools, only two of them had any warm water in them, and they both had quite a low water level, since the river was a little low. The temperature was perfect for a long soak in the top pool." [Jason, Oct 2001]

SNAKE RIVER: Snake River Dunes.
Located in a wildlife preserve, the size of this beach area is highly dependent on the water level (controlled mostly by the downstream dam).
Comment: "Nude use of the Snake River Dunes, near Pullman, is a thing of the past in my opinion, overrun with college kids from Pullman (WSU)." [Jim, July 99] But other people disagree and still find the area enjoyable.
Directions: From Pullman (by the Idaho border), follow signs to Lower Granite Dam. Cross over the dam to the south side of the river and follow the road west (downstream) for 2 or 3 miles. Park at a small parking lot on your right about half a mile past the trailer park. Several trails lead to the beach.

SNAKE RIVER: Rice Bar.
"About 15 to 20 miles downstream of the Dunes you will find area a little cove called Rice Bar. This is a beautiful area about a mile and a half long along the river that DOW leases from DNR. A good gravel road leading down the mountain, good fishing, deer, and awesome scenery. Other than deer season and the occasional boaters, I very rarely encounter another sole. Nudity laws? I don't know. I have never run into a ranger there either." [Jim, June 2001]

SPOKANE: Kaniksu Ranch (AANR).
Kaniksu is located north of Spokane and is the host of the annual Bare Buns Fun Run. 4295 North Deer Lake Rd, Box 5, Loon Lake, WA 99148-9650. (509) 233-8202. (Check their website for a map. And call for the gate combination.) [July 2004]

SPOKANE: People's Park (Latah Creek Beach).
"People's Park is a small park that is mostly left to the wild and not maintained with much frequency by the county. The park itself is actually a wooded field area that runs along the Spokane River and Latah Creek (a.k.a. Hangman's Creek). There is a gravel parking lot that accomodates about 75 or so vehicles and from the parking lot it is about a five minute walk along dusty trails to the actual beach area of the park. The beach is located where Latah Creek and the Spokane River meet. It's a somewhat large stretch of sand and dirt that can't be missed. Since the 1970's, the entire beach has been clothing-optional---one can lay out in the nude on any portion of the beach. Across Latah Creek, which is only five metres wide, there are trees and shade where many people lay out, too. Up stream of Latah Creek there is more privacy (and this section tends to be where gay beach goers hang out.)"

"It's difficult to determine what is 'tolerated'. Most years the entire beach area is nude use. That is, if the police come to check things out and they want to harrass people, there are no safe areas---they simply ticket everyone at People's Park. (There was such a commando raid in May 2000 where six people were cited by a large group of police officers.) However, when I visited several times last summer, the police only made cursory checks for alcohol violations and to question transients. As long as you covered up when the bike cops showed up, you were fine. And that was on weekend days when there were 100 to 200 nude users present."

"There is no special area of People's Park for nude useage. The park is small and only the beach area is usable for any human activity (the rest is scrub grass and dust). The entire beach area is nude friendly, but you must be cautious with reference to law enforcement." [B.P., June 2001]

WALLA WALLA: The Inner Circle.
The Inner Circle is a non-landed Christian naturist club located in Walla Walla in SE Washington.
340 S. 4th Avenue, Walla Walla, WA. 99362. [July 2010]

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