Clothing Optional Custom
Historically these springs have been clothing optional. It has been the US Forest Service accepted practice that nudity is tolerated within the Deep Creek drainage. However, other agencies like Bureau of Land Management or the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department could try to enforce State anti-nudity ordinances on Federal land, but there have been no recent cases where this has occurred. It is recommended that if possible you dress before encountering such officials, and definitely upon their request.
Some people like to hike the trails nude. However, you should remember that many people in today’s society are not accustomed to public nudity and therefore you should try not to offend other people. Keep your shorts or other clothing handy. To wander nude into clothing compulsive territory may offend many, and undermine our objectives. Please help by respecting their rights, as we would like them to respect our right to be nude in established clothing optional areas. Transgressions may lead to complaints and us losing this right. The hot springs you save by respecting these standards may be your own.
Remember that clothing optional is not a pretext for overt sexual activity.
Nude is not lewd but combined with sex, it undermines our image and could cost us our freedom and enjoyment of the hot springs. We firmly believe that the springs are a healthy environment for your children and grandchildren. Please help us keep it that way.
Some people like to hike the trails nude. However, you should remember that many people in today’s society are not accustomed to public nudity and therefore you should try not to offend other people. Keep your shorts or other clothing handy. To wander nude into clothing compulsive territory may offend many, and undermine our objectives. Please help by respecting their rights, as we would like them to respect our right to be nude in established clothing optional areas. Transgressions may lead to complaints and us losing this right. The hot springs you save by respecting these standards may be your own.
Remember that clothing optional is not a pretext for overt sexual activity.
Nude is not lewd but combined with sex, it undermines our image and could cost us our freedom and enjoyment of the hot springs. We firmly believe that the springs are a healthy environment for your children and grandchildren. Please help us keep it that way.
Etiquette
Respect your fellow hotspringers and be polite to all by following the Deep Creek Hot Spring's etiquette. These common sense Hot Springs standards of etiquette have been written with the intention of making your Hot Springs visits more enjoyable for you and your fellow hotspringers.
- Respect other people’s privacy. Many are at the Hot Springs for quiet time. Please refrain from shouting. Don't monopolize a person's time unless the welcome mat is out. Recognize when you are unwelcome.
- Do not bring glass containers. Even though you can take the greatest of care, accidents do happen or someone else could accidentally bump into you. No one wants their children to cut themselves on glass you brought in.
- Pack it in, pack it out. There is no official trash collection at Deep Creek. Just because we are doing our part to look after this beautiful place does not mean we are your trash collectors. If you carried it down, you can carry it back up. It is recommended that you pack out a little more than you packed in. Unfortunately, not everyone packs all their trash out. Remember cigarette butts and melted candles are trash as well. Please do not leave them in the pools for others to take out.
- Respect the environment. Do not cut down trees or harm the wildlife and other vegetation you see at the springs or on the trails. Do not add any class of chemicals to the water. Help preserve the existing pool but do not build new ones.
- Monitor your dogs. Not everyone is a dog lover. Please respect the feelings of others and restrain your pet if he/she is being a nuisance to others. Many people do not appreciate a dog in the hot pools with them so please check with fellow hotspringers before allowing your dog into a pool.
- Do not photograph people without their permission. It is common courtesy to ask first. Not everyone wants to end up in a stranger's photo album. Never photograph any children but your own without their parents permission.
- There are no bathroom facilities down at the springs. Bring a small shovel and toilet paper for these purposes. Find a private place away from the creek, dig a hole, do your thing, and please cover it up with lots and lots of dirt. The USFS standard guideline requires you to be 200 feet from the creek. The sanitary condition of the springs and surrounding area is a concern to the authorities. Do not give them an excuse to close them down. Please remember that toilet paper is trash as well, please pack it out or bury it deep.
- Speak up for our standards. If a person seems unaware of Hot Springs etiquette, explain it kindly and plainly. Don't let uncouth individuals jeopardize the future of Deep Creek or ruin our fragile and beautiful place under the sun.
Flash Floods
Please note that Deep Creek area is prone to sudden flash floods, mud slides and falling rocks.
These events are more likely during or shortly after rain storms in winter, however they could occur year round.
These events are more likely during or shortly after rain storms in winter, however they could occur year round.
Potential Health Concern
According to USFS information Deep Creek Hot Springs is one of four bodies of water known to the risk of an extremely rare but potentially fatal disease called primary amoebic meningoeucephlitis (PAM). There have been no reports of PAM at the springs since 1979. Note this is an advisory based on information provided to DCV and should not be taken to constitute medical or legal advice.
History of DCV
Deep Creek Volunteers(DCV) was formed in October 2002 by several concerned hot springs users. At that time a group of more or less regular visitors, some of whom had been visiting the springs since the early seventies, grew more and more concerned about the land dispute and ownership issues surrounding the Bowen Ranch.
Many of these issues have evolved historically and are primarily based on statements and claims made by a person who goes by the alias "Katrina Island". Katrina Island has regularly posted these allegations on the Deep Creek Hot Springs (DCHS) Discussion Forum website.
The veracity of the allegations made was not our concern. However, these allegations and the subsequent discussions and rantings posted on the DCHS Discussion Forum represented both sides of the dispute and brought a significant amount of negative publicity towards the most recognized natural hot springs on public land in Southern California. Our fear was that all this negative publicity would discourage the family atmosphere that the springs have always had and scare away potential future visitors to the springs who may feel it's no longer safe to visit. Ultimately, we were worried this negative publicity could eventually lead to the United States Forest Service (USFS) considering closing Deep Creek Hot Springs to public access.
In order to improve the public image of the springs and to assist in keeping the springs clean, safe and open for public visitation, a small group of concerned individuals who are very familiar with the springs and the many issues surrounding it decided to form an independent group that would not include any of the persons closely involved in the land dispute arguments. As a result, a series of meetings was proposed to be conducted at the springs to discuss this idea. From these meetings it was clear that there was a good deal of skepticism regarding if we could form such a group and whether it could remain independent from the parties involved in the land dispute. As a consequence, only a few of the people that attended the initial meetings were willing to sign up for anything until they could foresee the potential viability and effectiveness of the group. However, there was a feeling that we all loved the springs and would hate to see them ruined or closed so it was worthwhile trying to do something. As a result, we decided to take things one step at a time. First we would chose a name, then we would ask people to sign up, and then with those initial members we would prepare a mission statement and a brochure that we could present to the USFS and eventually publish and distribute to visitors at the springs.
Of all these tasks, choosing the name was probably the hardest part. As we had no committed members, we utilized the DCHS Discussion Forum to reach out to regular posters and potential, initial members to determine a name for the group. We started out with about 14 names and after seven rounds of voting ended up with Deep Creek Volunteers. We then started accepting member to join and wrote up a tentative mission statement and flyer which was discussed both on the DCHS Discussion Forum and at our meetings in person. Finally, we presented our flyer to the USFS, and after about two months it was approved by them with only minor modifications. The most significant issue was that the USFS did not want us proclaiming that there were no laws against nudity on public land, but instead wanted us to indicate that nudity was tolerated within a given area. When I asked them to define the area for allowable nudity, I expected them to respond that nudity was permissible in the immediate vicinity of the hot springs. Instead they proposed the entire Deep Creek drainage area within the San Bernardino National Forest boundary with the exception of a quarter of a mile from the area known as the T-6 crossing close to Lake Arrowhead.
As a result of this whole process and the reluctance of people to initially join, it is difficult to say with certainty who are founding members were. However, I think it would be fair to say that the members that were involved in this whole process and joined by the time the brochure was approved are our founding members. They would include in addition to myself, Laughing Bear, Wizard, Sycamore Laughing, Paul Tall Tree, DCV member (Delete by request), Paul P., Scott, Naked Man and DCR.
Shortly after we reached this point we felt that it would be beneficial to affiliate ourselves with The Naturist Society (TNS) in the event that we should we ever face the risk of DCHS loosing it clothing optional tolerance or being closed to public access. We decided to invite TNS Regional Board member Allen Baylis to our next meeting, and after listening to his presentation it was decided that DCV would become a participating member in their network.
The one minor setback we had was that when we tried to update our flyer which included the TNS logo approved by the USFS, we were denied and instructed to remove our brochure box from the post at the USFS 4 wheel drive parking lot near the top of the Bowen Ranch trail leading down to the springs. New local management at the USFS applied a regulation that no material may be posted on government property if it did not comply with a series of requisites and the nature of the clothing optional custom made it highly unlikely that we could achieve this. For this reason we decided to move the location of our box to the Bowen Ranch where it has been ever since.
Thanks to the efforts and dedication of our friend Lloyd Johnson from Black Beach Bares we got our first web page link to his site. I would have liked to do it myself but did not have the knowledge or the time. Then in 2004 Ralph Maese joined our group and purchased the domain we have today (deepcreekvolunteers.com) and took over all the work that Lloyd had done. Currently, our website receives between 30-50 hits a day.
Deep Creek Volunteers has been steadily growing. Most of those people that initially were skeptical have since joined our group. Today DCV has 66 members and its presence and contribution towards the springs is recognized and appreciated by visitors and USFS alike. Our members continue to help by carrying out trash, cleaning and repairing the pools, keeping up the website, keeping our box on the Bowen Ranch supplied with flyers, educating visitors on appropriate etiquette and the clothing optional custom, answering emails regarding the current condition of the springs and being the eyes and ears for the forest service. We look forward to continually add more members to our group and to help preserve this beautiful spot to be able to pass it down to our children and grandchildren.
by Ron Mercer
Many of these issues have evolved historically and are primarily based on statements and claims made by a person who goes by the alias "Katrina Island". Katrina Island has regularly posted these allegations on the Deep Creek Hot Springs (DCHS) Discussion Forum website.
The veracity of the allegations made was not our concern. However, these allegations and the subsequent discussions and rantings posted on the DCHS Discussion Forum represented both sides of the dispute and brought a significant amount of negative publicity towards the most recognized natural hot springs on public land in Southern California. Our fear was that all this negative publicity would discourage the family atmosphere that the springs have always had and scare away potential future visitors to the springs who may feel it's no longer safe to visit. Ultimately, we were worried this negative publicity could eventually lead to the United States Forest Service (USFS) considering closing Deep Creek Hot Springs to public access.
In order to improve the public image of the springs and to assist in keeping the springs clean, safe and open for public visitation, a small group of concerned individuals who are very familiar with the springs and the many issues surrounding it decided to form an independent group that would not include any of the persons closely involved in the land dispute arguments. As a result, a series of meetings was proposed to be conducted at the springs to discuss this idea. From these meetings it was clear that there was a good deal of skepticism regarding if we could form such a group and whether it could remain independent from the parties involved in the land dispute. As a consequence, only a few of the people that attended the initial meetings were willing to sign up for anything until they could foresee the potential viability and effectiveness of the group. However, there was a feeling that we all loved the springs and would hate to see them ruined or closed so it was worthwhile trying to do something. As a result, we decided to take things one step at a time. First we would chose a name, then we would ask people to sign up, and then with those initial members we would prepare a mission statement and a brochure that we could present to the USFS and eventually publish and distribute to visitors at the springs.
Of all these tasks, choosing the name was probably the hardest part. As we had no committed members, we utilized the DCHS Discussion Forum to reach out to regular posters and potential, initial members to determine a name for the group. We started out with about 14 names and after seven rounds of voting ended up with Deep Creek Volunteers. We then started accepting member to join and wrote up a tentative mission statement and flyer which was discussed both on the DCHS Discussion Forum and at our meetings in person. Finally, we presented our flyer to the USFS, and after about two months it was approved by them with only minor modifications. The most significant issue was that the USFS did not want us proclaiming that there were no laws against nudity on public land, but instead wanted us to indicate that nudity was tolerated within a given area. When I asked them to define the area for allowable nudity, I expected them to respond that nudity was permissible in the immediate vicinity of the hot springs. Instead they proposed the entire Deep Creek drainage area within the San Bernardino National Forest boundary with the exception of a quarter of a mile from the area known as the T-6 crossing close to Lake Arrowhead.
As a result of this whole process and the reluctance of people to initially join, it is difficult to say with certainty who are founding members were. However, I think it would be fair to say that the members that were involved in this whole process and joined by the time the brochure was approved are our founding members. They would include in addition to myself, Laughing Bear, Wizard, Sycamore Laughing, Paul Tall Tree, DCV member (Delete by request), Paul P., Scott, Naked Man and DCR.
Shortly after we reached this point we felt that it would be beneficial to affiliate ourselves with The Naturist Society (TNS) in the event that we should we ever face the risk of DCHS loosing it clothing optional tolerance or being closed to public access. We decided to invite TNS Regional Board member Allen Baylis to our next meeting, and after listening to his presentation it was decided that DCV would become a participating member in their network.
The one minor setback we had was that when we tried to update our flyer which included the TNS logo approved by the USFS, we were denied and instructed to remove our brochure box from the post at the USFS 4 wheel drive parking lot near the top of the Bowen Ranch trail leading down to the springs. New local management at the USFS applied a regulation that no material may be posted on government property if it did not comply with a series of requisites and the nature of the clothing optional custom made it highly unlikely that we could achieve this. For this reason we decided to move the location of our box to the Bowen Ranch where it has been ever since.
Thanks to the efforts and dedication of our friend Lloyd Johnson from Black Beach Bares we got our first web page link to his site. I would have liked to do it myself but did not have the knowledge or the time. Then in 2004 Ralph Maese joined our group and purchased the domain we have today (deepcreekvolunteers.com) and took over all the work that Lloyd had done. Currently, our website receives between 30-50 hits a day.
Deep Creek Volunteers has been steadily growing. Most of those people that initially were skeptical have since joined our group. Today DCV has 66 members and its presence and contribution towards the springs is recognized and appreciated by visitors and USFS alike. Our members continue to help by carrying out trash, cleaning and repairing the pools, keeping up the website, keeping our box on the Bowen Ranch supplied with flyers, educating visitors on appropriate etiquette and the clothing optional custom, answering emails regarding the current condition of the springs and being the eyes and ears for the forest service. We look forward to continually add more members to our group and to help preserve this beautiful spot to be able to pass it down to our children and grandchildren.
by Ron Mercer
Potential Skin Rash
At Deep Creek Hot Springs (DCHS) some people at times can get a skin rash after soaking for longer periods of time in the hot pools. Many folks are not affected by it. It is caused by a natural organism that lives in warm/hot water bodies like hot springs for one example. It could occur at any time of the year, day or night. Depending on your susceptibility and exposure time, the rash can be very uncomfortable, and can take a day or two to go away. Here is a brief explanation of what causes it ( Hot tub folliculitis (also known as Pseudomonas aeruginosa folliculitis) is a common type of folliculitis, a condition which causes inflammation of hair follicles. This condition is caused by an infection of hair follicles due to the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa.).
United States Forest Service Regulations
Respect the USFS regulations for the area. Ignoring these regulations could lead to the closure of the area, affecting us all. These regulations prohibit the following activities in the Deep Creek drainage area:
- Camping on National Forest lands within a mile of each side of Deep Creek.
- Building, maintaining or attending a fire, campfire or stove fire.
- Being in the Deep Creek area after sundown or before sunrise.
- Possession of glass containers within a mile of each side of Deep Creek.
- Being publicly nude within one-quarter mile of the T-6 crossing (close to Arrowhead).
What should you take when you visit?
Here is the list that you should consider on taking.
Plenty of water, half a gallon in winter and a gallon in summer is recommendable. If you run out of water you can drink the water that comes out of the copper pipe that comes out of the rock above the crab cooker pool.
Food snacks such as fruit, nuts, trail mix, dried fruit, snack bars, chocolate, etc. Some people heat cans of chili beans or soup in the crab cooker.
Sunscreen lotion, very important during spring and summer
Cap or hat for sun protection especially in summer
Warm clothes. Dress in layers as it will get fresh in the evenings during spring and autumn, and can be very cold in winter.
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
$5.00 per person ($10.00 overnight) if you plan on parking at the Bowen Ranch. Try and have the exact change as you may need to use the envelope and slot provided if there is no one at the door.
Towel
Water Shoes to protect your feet from the hot rocks or sand.
Toilet paper
Small shovel to use when you go behind a bush
Trash bags to carry out your own trash, including used toilet paper
Flashlight with new or spare batteries, in case you are caught by dark
Emergency blanket to sit on or for warmth in winter
Walking stick for hiking if you like
A whistle in case you get lost
A first aid kit or simple items like Band-Aids, aspirins, etc.
A change of clothes to leave in your vehicle, so that you have something to change into if you want at the end of your hike
Plenty of water, half a gallon in winter and a gallon in summer is recommendable. If you run out of water you can drink the water that comes out of the copper pipe that comes out of the rock above the crab cooker pool.
Food snacks such as fruit, nuts, trail mix, dried fruit, snack bars, chocolate, etc. Some people heat cans of chili beans or soup in the crab cooker.
Sunscreen lotion, very important during spring and summer
Cap or hat for sun protection especially in summer
Warm clothes. Dress in layers as it will get fresh in the evenings during spring and autumn, and can be very cold in winter.
Comfortable walking or hiking shoes
$5.00 per person ($10.00 overnight) if you plan on parking at the Bowen Ranch. Try and have the exact change as you may need to use the envelope and slot provided if there is no one at the door.
Towel
Water Shoes to protect your feet from the hot rocks or sand.
Toilet paper
Small shovel to use when you go behind a bush
Trash bags to carry out your own trash, including used toilet paper
Flashlight with new or spare batteries, in case you are caught by dark
Emergency blanket to sit on or for warmth in winter
Walking stick for hiking if you like
A whistle in case you get lost
A first aid kit or simple items like Band-Aids, aspirins, etc.
A change of clothes to leave in your vehicle, so that you have something to change into if you want at the end of your hike
Core Values
Traditional naturist values promotes self esteem.
We believe the human form is neither immoral nor inappropriate and endorse the culture of positive body acceptance. As a whole, we should set a common standard for our conduct across the world. Clarity in understanding our mission, our goals, and what we expect from each other is critical to our success of public acceptance of nude recreation. We must require complete honesty and integrity in what we do. Bottom line – We must set a good example. Keep it as pure as possible. Which it is!
Naturist values emphasize a decent, moral, family atmosphere. Research shows that children who grow up in a body acceptance setting tend to be more self-confident, more self-accepting, more sexually well-adjusted and feel better about their bodies.
American media and adult magazines have taught some people to view non-sexual nudity as pornographic. Do you have a wholesome body acceptance view?
Pornography is the enemy. It harms the image of your otherwise, wholesome body. Even the bible teaches in Genesis 2:25, Adam and Eve were naked and unashamed. It is not about showing off your body, it is about body acceptance and respect.
The core of our philosophy must be strong. When naturism is attacked, the fear that sexual activity is involved is usually the reason. Why give the enemies of nudism any more fuel to fight us? If the “nude equals sex” idea is the biggest threat, should we allow swinger or sexual activities of any kind at family nudist resorts and beaches? No. Naturist enjoy sexuality as much as anyone but should not sexualize naturism. It might make more money for some but it can destroy us starting at the very core of our philosophy.
Some people don’t like being labeled. Just like a person who periodically works in their garden might not want to be labeled a “gardener”, the words “Clothes Free” doesn’t label the person as does the word “nudist” or “naturist”. “Clothes Free” is catching on as the new friendly replacement to “nudist”. Many resorts are now calling themselves clothes free resorts instead of nudist resorts. The words “Clothes Free” points at the clothes that are gone, instead of pointing at, or labeling the person.
In order for nudism to really grow and gain acceptance in the long run, we need to keep it wholesome at all costs.
If sexually charged activity of any kind happens at a nude beach or a resort, the public eye will use that to attack us. By allowing this, the public will think it is an “adults only” thing, when in fact; it is a safe, wholesome atmosphere for the whole family that allows everyone to learn respect and have more self esteem.
We need to tackle another problem that seems to come from within. We need to stay united. It is necessary that we keep strong in numbers. We all may not agree on every nudist philosophy but we must not let that divide us. Friction among ourselves will hurt us all in gaining respect and credibility with the population at large. So let’s all unite. Please help, not harp. Our society is obsessed with hiding what they call the “indecent” body. Together we can fight that. It is such a worthy cause.
We believe the human form is neither immoral nor inappropriate and endorse the culture of positive body acceptance. As a whole, we should set a common standard for our conduct across the world. Clarity in understanding our mission, our goals, and what we expect from each other is critical to our success of public acceptance of nude recreation. We must require complete honesty and integrity in what we do. Bottom line – We must set a good example. Keep it as pure as possible. Which it is!
Naturist values emphasize a decent, moral, family atmosphere. Research shows that children who grow up in a body acceptance setting tend to be more self-confident, more self-accepting, more sexually well-adjusted and feel better about their bodies.
American media and adult magazines have taught some people to view non-sexual nudity as pornographic. Do you have a wholesome body acceptance view?
Pornography is the enemy. It harms the image of your otherwise, wholesome body. Even the bible teaches in Genesis 2:25, Adam and Eve were naked and unashamed. It is not about showing off your body, it is about body acceptance and respect.
The core of our philosophy must be strong. When naturism is attacked, the fear that sexual activity is involved is usually the reason. Why give the enemies of nudism any more fuel to fight us? If the “nude equals sex” idea is the biggest threat, should we allow swinger or sexual activities of any kind at family nudist resorts and beaches? No. Naturist enjoy sexuality as much as anyone but should not sexualize naturism. It might make more money for some but it can destroy us starting at the very core of our philosophy.
Some people don’t like being labeled. Just like a person who periodically works in their garden might not want to be labeled a “gardener”, the words “Clothes Free” doesn’t label the person as does the word “nudist” or “naturist”. “Clothes Free” is catching on as the new friendly replacement to “nudist”. Many resorts are now calling themselves clothes free resorts instead of nudist resorts. The words “Clothes Free” points at the clothes that are gone, instead of pointing at, or labeling the person.
In order for nudism to really grow and gain acceptance in the long run, we need to keep it wholesome at all costs.
If sexually charged activity of any kind happens at a nude beach or a resort, the public eye will use that to attack us. By allowing this, the public will think it is an “adults only” thing, when in fact; it is a safe, wholesome atmosphere for the whole family that allows everyone to learn respect and have more self esteem.
We need to tackle another problem that seems to come from within. We need to stay united. It is necessary that we keep strong in numbers. We all may not agree on every nudist philosophy but we must not let that divide us. Friction among ourselves will hurt us all in gaining respect and credibility with the population at large. So let’s all unite. Please help, not harp. Our society is obsessed with hiding what they call the “indecent” body. Together we can fight that. It is such a worthy cause.
Why Get Naked?
Being nude is fun, healthy, and good for the soul. It promotes body acceptance and awareness, age acceptance, freedom, self-esteem, self-confidence, and celebrates one of God’s greatest creations. Naturally, nudity keeps the body from the restrictions of clothing, which shift and compress our bodies, and exposes the body to the air and sun, which has numerous health benefits. The more aware we are of our bodies, the more likely we are to keep a healthy and active lifestyle. But we will also be less judgmental of others who don’t have the stereotypical and hyped “perfect” body.
Being nude will help a society built around shame that the naked body does not equate to the sexual body. While people are nude in sexual situations, the mere presence of the nude body does not presume a sexual situation. The two can be as mutually exclusive as an apple and an orange. The naturist movement intends to enforce this value and show that the nude human body does not exist solely for sex or bathing, and that wholesomeness can walk hand in hand with nudity.
The Swimsuit.
The swimsuit is an example of needless clothing. When we take a shower or bath, do we put clothes on? Do we enjoy the feeling of the water around us or do we hope to come out of our daily ritual with a piece of cloth clinging to our bodies making us cold and keeping us damp? While the answer is obvious, society has been slow to catch up when the bathing comes in a public setting.
The world’s best swimsuit is your skin. Without a material swimsuit, you are freer to move around in the water and you won’t suffer the chafing that comes from sand or sea salt lodging itself in the lining of your trunks. Naturally occurring bacteria will not crowd your body since there will be nothing to trap it against your skin.
But going without a man-made swimsuit will send another message altogether about respect for the body. Unlike the swimsuits of the past, which covered men and women from head to tow with billowy garments intended to maintain one’s “modesty,” today’s swimsuits are aimed to enhance and promote the most sexualized of body parts. In other words, material swimsuits promote unhealthy attitudes about the human body. With nakedness, you actually remove the sexual context of the beach wear, and all can enjoy the sun together without worrying about how sexy they look in their new bikini or trunks. True modesty is found in chaste nudity.
There was a time in history where people swam, exercised, and relaxed while nude, sometimes quite publicly. John Quincy Adams is said to have skinnydipped in the Potomac River and Benjamin Franklin took daily air baths in the nude at his home with the doors and windows wide open. In 300 years, it seems society has taken a step backwards in regards to the human body.
Set a good example.
Normalizing nudity will take time. Meanwhile, we should respect the laws that make sense and challenge those that are oppressive. On public lands that allow nudity, remember to stay in secluded areas. By being respectful of boundaries, no matter what we think of them, we might win over public favor. If you are in an area that technically doesn’t allow nudity, you should cover up or ask if you may continue on with your nude recreation should someone else arrive.
By setting a good example, you can help erase the media-fueled perception that nudity equals sex and can promote the idea that the naked body is actually wholesome.
Family naturist values.
We’re often too young to remember the freedom we felt as a toddler running around the house or the backyard nude. We had yet to be told that our bodies must be hidden and we had no awareness that our bodies would one day be seen as something we should be ashamed of. In other words, children are natural nudists.
Kids that are used to nudity will not sexualize naked body when they come to their teenager age. They have already seen everything so most likely they will not feel the urge not to be the last one to see naked breasts. Also, seeing naked bodies in all sizes and shapes with all the imperfections is good for their confidence. Nowadays when all the models are super photoshoped seeing real bodies is a great way to be more realistic and respect other people no matter of their body appearance.
Nudist resorts provide controlled, open environments and are safe for families. Many raised within the body shame system, become obsessed with the naked body, fetishizing certain parts due to their intense curiosity and the equation of the unexposed parts with sex. Research conducted at the University of Northern Iowa found that nudist children had more positive self-concepts of the body than non-nudist children and that the “nudity classification” of a family was one of the most significant factors associated with a positive body self-concept.
People raised in a nudist environment grow up with healthy attitudes about the body and easily understand the changes in their bodies. Instead of preaching shame about body parts and functions, the naturist movement instills respect for the body. They will understand better the ramifications of jumping too soon into adult behaviors and will be less apt to turn the body of another into an object of desire. This respect for humanity will carry through a lifetime. As the body ages, one will more readily accept the natural changes the human form undergoes through adulthood and into old age. That is good for our society.
Why the need to congregate?
It’s nice to associate with like-minded people, and a group of nudists are like-minded. They enjoy recreation without clothing. The shame that one feels about ones body will be erased in a group of others who are nude. As with the clothes, the mental and emotional barriers are lifted when a supportive group gathers together and you are welcomed as you are for who you are, not for what you’re wearing or how you look. With the support of the group, you will then embrace the freedom you once thought to be shameful or forbidden and lose the feeling that the human body is somehow obscene. Your mental and emotional health will benefit from being nude in a social setting
Conclusion
To protect yourself from the elements, clothing serves a purpose. But you shouldn’t wear clothes out of a sense of shame. We live in a society where a woman’s breasts or a man’s penis or even the rear end will be blurred, but the media shows little remorse for showing graphic violence. The naked body is not disgusting, rude, or shameful. Being naked in public is about highlighting our collective humanity and should not result in persecution. As active members of society, nudists should be free to come together and celebrate the values of respect and wholesomeness brought upon by positive body awareness.
And besides, it’s fun!
by ClothesFree.com
Being nude will help a society built around shame that the naked body does not equate to the sexual body. While people are nude in sexual situations, the mere presence of the nude body does not presume a sexual situation. The two can be as mutually exclusive as an apple and an orange. The naturist movement intends to enforce this value and show that the nude human body does not exist solely for sex or bathing, and that wholesomeness can walk hand in hand with nudity.
The Swimsuit.
The swimsuit is an example of needless clothing. When we take a shower or bath, do we put clothes on? Do we enjoy the feeling of the water around us or do we hope to come out of our daily ritual with a piece of cloth clinging to our bodies making us cold and keeping us damp? While the answer is obvious, society has been slow to catch up when the bathing comes in a public setting.
The world’s best swimsuit is your skin. Without a material swimsuit, you are freer to move around in the water and you won’t suffer the chafing that comes from sand or sea salt lodging itself in the lining of your trunks. Naturally occurring bacteria will not crowd your body since there will be nothing to trap it against your skin.
But going without a man-made swimsuit will send another message altogether about respect for the body. Unlike the swimsuits of the past, which covered men and women from head to tow with billowy garments intended to maintain one’s “modesty,” today’s swimsuits are aimed to enhance and promote the most sexualized of body parts. In other words, material swimsuits promote unhealthy attitudes about the human body. With nakedness, you actually remove the sexual context of the beach wear, and all can enjoy the sun together without worrying about how sexy they look in their new bikini or trunks. True modesty is found in chaste nudity.
There was a time in history where people swam, exercised, and relaxed while nude, sometimes quite publicly. John Quincy Adams is said to have skinnydipped in the Potomac River and Benjamin Franklin took daily air baths in the nude at his home with the doors and windows wide open. In 300 years, it seems society has taken a step backwards in regards to the human body.
Set a good example.
Normalizing nudity will take time. Meanwhile, we should respect the laws that make sense and challenge those that are oppressive. On public lands that allow nudity, remember to stay in secluded areas. By being respectful of boundaries, no matter what we think of them, we might win over public favor. If you are in an area that technically doesn’t allow nudity, you should cover up or ask if you may continue on with your nude recreation should someone else arrive.
By setting a good example, you can help erase the media-fueled perception that nudity equals sex and can promote the idea that the naked body is actually wholesome.
Family naturist values.
We’re often too young to remember the freedom we felt as a toddler running around the house or the backyard nude. We had yet to be told that our bodies must be hidden and we had no awareness that our bodies would one day be seen as something we should be ashamed of. In other words, children are natural nudists.
Kids that are used to nudity will not sexualize naked body when they come to their teenager age. They have already seen everything so most likely they will not feel the urge not to be the last one to see naked breasts. Also, seeing naked bodies in all sizes and shapes with all the imperfections is good for their confidence. Nowadays when all the models are super photoshoped seeing real bodies is a great way to be more realistic and respect other people no matter of their body appearance.
Nudist resorts provide controlled, open environments and are safe for families. Many raised within the body shame system, become obsessed with the naked body, fetishizing certain parts due to their intense curiosity and the equation of the unexposed parts with sex. Research conducted at the University of Northern Iowa found that nudist children had more positive self-concepts of the body than non-nudist children and that the “nudity classification” of a family was one of the most significant factors associated with a positive body self-concept.
People raised in a nudist environment grow up with healthy attitudes about the body and easily understand the changes in their bodies. Instead of preaching shame about body parts and functions, the naturist movement instills respect for the body. They will understand better the ramifications of jumping too soon into adult behaviors and will be less apt to turn the body of another into an object of desire. This respect for humanity will carry through a lifetime. As the body ages, one will more readily accept the natural changes the human form undergoes through adulthood and into old age. That is good for our society.
Why the need to congregate?
It’s nice to associate with like-minded people, and a group of nudists are like-minded. They enjoy recreation without clothing. The shame that one feels about ones body will be erased in a group of others who are nude. As with the clothes, the mental and emotional barriers are lifted when a supportive group gathers together and you are welcomed as you are for who you are, not for what you’re wearing or how you look. With the support of the group, you will then embrace the freedom you once thought to be shameful or forbidden and lose the feeling that the human body is somehow obscene. Your mental and emotional health will benefit from being nude in a social setting
Conclusion
To protect yourself from the elements, clothing serves a purpose. But you shouldn’t wear clothes out of a sense of shame. We live in a society where a woman’s breasts or a man’s penis or even the rear end will be blurred, but the media shows little remorse for showing graphic violence. The naked body is not disgusting, rude, or shameful. Being naked in public is about highlighting our collective humanity and should not result in persecution. As active members of society, nudists should be free to come together and celebrate the values of respect and wholesomeness brought upon by positive body awareness.
And besides, it’s fun!
by ClothesFree.com
NUDITY ALLOWED
Yes, it's clothing optional at the springs.
Lost In Translation: Exposing The Basic Nudist Vocabulary
Clothing-optional – While this may seem pretty selfexplanatory, clothing optional resorts often require visitors who wish to use the swimming pool, Jacuzzi, or sauna to do so naked. People who remain dressed during their entire visit to a clothing-optional facility may be viewed as a voyeur and, appropriately, asked to leave. Check the club’s policies before assuming that the choice is yours throughout the place.
Clothing-free – Most nudists practice “dressing for comfort” – putting on or taking off clothing according to weather conditions, for example. However, clothing-free resorts, cruises, etc. expect members and visitors to remain nude as much as possible.
Naturist vs. Nudist– Although many use these terms interchangeably, especially in the United States, “naturist” is the preferred term in Europe. Naturist also implies a person with a greater appreciation for nature in general. Many naturist sites are campgrounds and beaches, focused less on the high-end amenities than other nudist resorts. Naturists are more active physically (volleyball, hiking, etc.) and practice healthy eating and a minimal impact on the environment. Many (but not all) also are non-smokers and drink very little (or no) alcohol.
Nude vs. Naked – Art historians have been debating the differences between the words "nude" and "naked" for centuries. Traditionally, "nude" is a term used to describe an unclothed person who has a degree of body acceptance and who is comfortable in his/her surroundings. Uninformed people like to use "naked" interchangeably with "nude", which is not the same. We define "naked" as meaning "exposed" or "vulnerable." Example: “She was buck naked on the beach” implies some jeopardy. "She was nude on the beach" does not.
Nakation – A term invented by AANR (the American Association for Nude Recreation) a few years ago as a play on the over-used term "stay-cation" (staying at home during one's vacation). On a "Nakation" the participants are partially or totally nude during all or part of it, usually at some nudist resort or on a cruise with other nudists. Skinny-dipping – Nude swimming.
Topless vs. Top-Free – “Topless” brings images of dancers on poles with dollar bills in their G-strings. The term preferred among nudists is “top-free.” Non-landed – This term refers to clubs or organizations that do not own property on which they gather. Members of non-landed (otherwise known as “travel”) clubs often meet for special events, such as a camping trip, volleyball tournament, or beach outing, or may gather at members’ homes to enjoy each other’s company. SCNA is a "nonlanded" club.
Landed – A clubs or destination resort which owns land on which they may or may not have club houses, swimming pools, or other amenities which members and guests enjoy without clothes. An outdated term from the 1940's to describe landed clubs was "nudist camp" or "nudist colony." We are not lepers. Please do not use these archaic terms as nudists deem them offensive.
Lifestyle – This word is often a “code” for “swinger clubs” in which sexual behavior in front of others is condoned. While people often refer to a nudist’s "lifestyle" when discussing the general attitude of naturists or nudists, talking about a “lifestyle resort” typically refers to one patronized by swingers. Many nudists use the phrase "chosen way of life" instead.
Textiles – Those who wear bathing suits. Nudists use this pejorative term to describe a non-nudist who endlessly speculates as to what is beneath the cloth of others, who peeks whenever possible, who believes on faith without ever having been to a nudist place that nudity equates to sex.
Cotton-Tails – A fun commentary on a newbie's tan lines as opposed to the veteran nudist who has none. It is not meant to be insulting but be careful who you say it to!
Smoothie – A person who shaves much of his/her body hair off. Hairless genitals has become a popular form of self-expression during the past decade, as is body jewelry (placed in various places besides ear lobes) and tattoos. Remember, it’s not polite to stare (or to make a comment).
Clothing-free – Most nudists practice “dressing for comfort” – putting on or taking off clothing according to weather conditions, for example. However, clothing-free resorts, cruises, etc. expect members and visitors to remain nude as much as possible.
Naturist vs. Nudist– Although many use these terms interchangeably, especially in the United States, “naturist” is the preferred term in Europe. Naturist also implies a person with a greater appreciation for nature in general. Many naturist sites are campgrounds and beaches, focused less on the high-end amenities than other nudist resorts. Naturists are more active physically (volleyball, hiking, etc.) and practice healthy eating and a minimal impact on the environment. Many (but not all) also are non-smokers and drink very little (or no) alcohol.
Nude vs. Naked – Art historians have been debating the differences between the words "nude" and "naked" for centuries. Traditionally, "nude" is a term used to describe an unclothed person who has a degree of body acceptance and who is comfortable in his/her surroundings. Uninformed people like to use "naked" interchangeably with "nude", which is not the same. We define "naked" as meaning "exposed" or "vulnerable." Example: “She was buck naked on the beach” implies some jeopardy. "She was nude on the beach" does not.
Nakation – A term invented by AANR (the American Association for Nude Recreation) a few years ago as a play on the over-used term "stay-cation" (staying at home during one's vacation). On a "Nakation" the participants are partially or totally nude during all or part of it, usually at some nudist resort or on a cruise with other nudists. Skinny-dipping – Nude swimming.
Topless vs. Top-Free – “Topless” brings images of dancers on poles with dollar bills in their G-strings. The term preferred among nudists is “top-free.” Non-landed – This term refers to clubs or organizations that do not own property on which they gather. Members of non-landed (otherwise known as “travel”) clubs often meet for special events, such as a camping trip, volleyball tournament, or beach outing, or may gather at members’ homes to enjoy each other’s company. SCNA is a "nonlanded" club.
Landed – A clubs or destination resort which owns land on which they may or may not have club houses, swimming pools, or other amenities which members and guests enjoy without clothes. An outdated term from the 1940's to describe landed clubs was "nudist camp" or "nudist colony." We are not lepers. Please do not use these archaic terms as nudists deem them offensive.
Lifestyle – This word is often a “code” for “swinger clubs” in which sexual behavior in front of others is condoned. While people often refer to a nudist’s "lifestyle" when discussing the general attitude of naturists or nudists, talking about a “lifestyle resort” typically refers to one patronized by swingers. Many nudists use the phrase "chosen way of life" instead.
Textiles – Those who wear bathing suits. Nudists use this pejorative term to describe a non-nudist who endlessly speculates as to what is beneath the cloth of others, who peeks whenever possible, who believes on faith without ever having been to a nudist place that nudity equates to sex.
Cotton-Tails – A fun commentary on a newbie's tan lines as opposed to the veteran nudist who has none. It is not meant to be insulting but be careful who you say it to!
Smoothie – A person who shaves much of his/her body hair off. Hairless genitals has become a popular form of self-expression during the past decade, as is body jewelry (placed in various places besides ear lobes) and tattoos. Remember, it’s not polite to stare (or to make a comment).
How does a woman deal with her period at the springs?
Menstruation is looked upon as a normal, healthy function. The wearing of shorts or the use of tampons enables women to enjoy most of their nudist activities. It is not a subject of notice or comment.
During this time of the month for women, many nudist women will wear bathing suit bottoms. What they all wear to prevent leakage is a matter of personal preference, but many wear tampons. Some avoid nudist venues during the first couple of days, feeling more comfortable to stay at home until able to control the flow with a tampon.
Going without precautions to capture menstrual flow in the nudist setting is not recommended. One wouldn’t do it in a textile setting so you shouldn’t do it in a nudist setting either. There are thousands of women nudists that are still full time nudists while menstruating. They all take the usual precautions. Doing this doesn't make them any less a nudist, full or part-time.
During this time of the month for women, many nudist women will wear bathing suit bottoms. What they all wear to prevent leakage is a matter of personal preference, but many wear tampons. Some avoid nudist venues during the first couple of days, feeling more comfortable to stay at home until able to control the flow with a tampon.
Going without precautions to capture menstrual flow in the nudist setting is not recommended. One wouldn’t do it in a textile setting so you shouldn’t do it in a nudist setting either. There are thousands of women nudists that are still full time nudists while menstruating. They all take the usual precautions. Doing this doesn't make them any less a nudist, full or part-time.
Are my children welcome? What effect does nudism have on children?
Naturism is for all ages, and naturist beaches and resorts in general are family-friendly places (though some parents may find those out-of-the-way beaches difficult to reach with the little ones). Parents may wonder whether their children will want to participate in nude activities, and the answer depends a great deal upon the child and what messages he or she has received about the body while growing up. Young children are natural nudists, but it’s not unusual for older ones to become less interested in nude recreation at the onset of puberty. How parents react to these differing developmental stages varies, but a child’s fears and feelings should be respected. Discretion is the watchword here.
Another hot topic these days concerns the effect of nudism on children. Freud and his more contemporary disciples (Benjamin Spock and Joyce Brothers) often warned that children, especially during the years from nine to thirteen, should not be allowed to see their parents nude walking around the house because it would over-stimulate the youngsters. This unsupported belief was repeated often during the past 75 years.
While introducing one’s children to naturism is a matter of parental choice, Alayne Yates, professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, has shown that in cultures where nudity in common, children grow up to be less critical of their bodies. Other studies have shown similar, positive benefits for children who are raised in a nudity-friendly environment. In 1985 and again in 1995, Dennis Craig Smith did a Kinsey-style survey of real naturist families to see how growing up in a nudist environment had affected children in both the short-term and long term. His study was published as a book, Growing Up Without Shame, and its conclusions reaffirmed what nudists always knew: that families practicing social nudism at home or at clubs/resorts were more stable and exhibited far fewer psychological problems than occurs in the public at large. Smith sampled nearly a five hundred nudists twice, ten years apart, once as children, and then as adults. He also sampled 500 college-age students who were not nudists so the results could be compared. Of the social nudists surveyed, 90% said nudity at home was a common practice, and 43.3% said it was common to dine in the nude. Some 28.3% of the social nudist group indicated that they had lived permanently with their parents in a nudist camp at some time during their childhood. The results of the ten-year comparison showed that 66.7% of the social nudists labeled their adolescence as stable and/or happy. Less than 18% of them report an emotionally troubled adolescence. These numbers were roughly the same for the college student group.
The degree of marital satisfaction for both the nudists and the college groups did not indicate any differences between the two groups. To the charge that nudity leads to increased anti-social behavior later, only three of the 500 social nudists (less than 1%) indicated having been jailed for more than two days, while 21.7% stated that they had ever been arrested. This is slightly better than the national average for non-nudists. The study found few (only 4%) of the nudist respondents indicated any regrets or negative effects about being raised as nudists. And, most telling, 73.3% of them said plan to raise their children as nudists. Involvement in naturism has not been shown to be harmful and may even be beneficial to childhood psychological development. Some parents worry whether their children will be safe in a nude setting. Nude beaches and resorts tend to be very safe places, and naturists do tend to look out for each other. But as in all situations involving children, especially near water, parental vigilance is recommended.
Recently, to avoid any possible litigation, some privately-owned resorts and clubs in the USA forbid bringing any minor children from other families without written permission in advance. A few even exclude children of divorced parents without the written consent of the other ex-spouse (unless they can prove full custody). Of course, this does not apply to public beaches or hot springs.
Another hot topic these days concerns the effect of nudism on children. Freud and his more contemporary disciples (Benjamin Spock and Joyce Brothers) often warned that children, especially during the years from nine to thirteen, should not be allowed to see their parents nude walking around the house because it would over-stimulate the youngsters. This unsupported belief was repeated often during the past 75 years.
While introducing one’s children to naturism is a matter of parental choice, Alayne Yates, professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, has shown that in cultures where nudity in common, children grow up to be less critical of their bodies. Other studies have shown similar, positive benefits for children who are raised in a nudity-friendly environment. In 1985 and again in 1995, Dennis Craig Smith did a Kinsey-style survey of real naturist families to see how growing up in a nudist environment had affected children in both the short-term and long term. His study was published as a book, Growing Up Without Shame, and its conclusions reaffirmed what nudists always knew: that families practicing social nudism at home or at clubs/resorts were more stable and exhibited far fewer psychological problems than occurs in the public at large. Smith sampled nearly a five hundred nudists twice, ten years apart, once as children, and then as adults. He also sampled 500 college-age students who were not nudists so the results could be compared. Of the social nudists surveyed, 90% said nudity at home was a common practice, and 43.3% said it was common to dine in the nude. Some 28.3% of the social nudist group indicated that they had lived permanently with their parents in a nudist camp at some time during their childhood. The results of the ten-year comparison showed that 66.7% of the social nudists labeled their adolescence as stable and/or happy. Less than 18% of them report an emotionally troubled adolescence. These numbers were roughly the same for the college student group.
The degree of marital satisfaction for both the nudists and the college groups did not indicate any differences between the two groups. To the charge that nudity leads to increased anti-social behavior later, only three of the 500 social nudists (less than 1%) indicated having been jailed for more than two days, while 21.7% stated that they had ever been arrested. This is slightly better than the national average for non-nudists. The study found few (only 4%) of the nudist respondents indicated any regrets or negative effects about being raised as nudists. And, most telling, 73.3% of them said plan to raise their children as nudists. Involvement in naturism has not been shown to be harmful and may even be beneficial to childhood psychological development. Some parents worry whether their children will be safe in a nude setting. Nude beaches and resorts tend to be very safe places, and naturists do tend to look out for each other. But as in all situations involving children, especially near water, parental vigilance is recommended.
Recently, to avoid any possible litigation, some privately-owned resorts and clubs in the USA forbid bringing any minor children from other families without written permission in advance. A few even exclude children of divorced parents without the written consent of the other ex-spouse (unless they can prove full custody). Of course, this does not apply to public beaches or hot springs.
Hike nude
Yes, you can hike in the nude but you might want to take something to cover up in case someone says something just put it on until you pass them then you go nude again. I ask everyone to please show respect when encountering textiles. We NEED to keep others from being offended. Otherwise we could lose our free speech rights. Yikes!
What about sex? Are Nudist / naturists a bunch of perverts or exhibitionists?
Absolutely not. To the contrary, naturists believe it is our cultural heritage of body shame that leads to an unhealthy obsession with sex. Nudist / Naturists believe sex is a normal, healthy part of life, but one that should be enjoyed by consenting adults in private. They believe clothes-optional beaches, resorts, or social gatherings are inappropriate places for sexual activity. They recognize that while nude is not lewd, public sex is offensive to many people, and almost always illegal. Nudist / Naturists are not exhibitionists. They do not wish to offend those who fear nakedness, and therefore work for designated public and private areas at which people have the option to wear clothes or not. They prefer such areas to be well-marked so people who may be offended can easily avoid them. As in all social situations, there is an etiquette to clothes-free gatherings that’s based on common sense and respect for others.
It’s common in cultures that link nudity and sexuality for people to believe that anyone who is nude is somehow motivated by sexual desire. Women may worry that men will ogle them or come on to them. Men might fear that they will embarrass themselves by becoming aroused at the sight of so many naked bodies. The truth is that neither happens very often. Desmond Morris, social anthropologist and author of The Naked Ape, writes that If you perform nudity in public you destroy its value as an erotic action. Nudists know this to be true in practice.
Women concerned about gawkers should be encouraged to learn that it is socially unacceptable at the places where naturists gather for people to stare, harass, or intimidate others. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable with their comments or behavior, it is right to speak up against it, and to notify the resort manager, activity leader or beach user group volunteer. Unacceptable behavior need not be tolerated.
Men who fear they will get an erection should know that it is rare in nudist / naturist settings. Some say it’s because the initial nervousness of the new situation inhibits a physical sexual response. But the most important reason is that a naturist environment is not sexually charged.
If a man should experience an involuntary erection, the appropriate response would be to casually cover up with a towel, roll over onto his stomach, jump in the water or otherwise excuse himself until the moment passes. Nudist / Naturists know that erections are natural and often involuntary, but it’s considered impolite to flaunt it.
Breaking the link between nudity and sexuality often opens an entirely new dimension of body- and self-acceptance. For most people it’s an exhilarating realization of physical and spiritual freedom.
It’s common in cultures that link nudity and sexuality for people to believe that anyone who is nude is somehow motivated by sexual desire. Women may worry that men will ogle them or come on to them. Men might fear that they will embarrass themselves by becoming aroused at the sight of so many naked bodies. The truth is that neither happens very often. Desmond Morris, social anthropologist and author of The Naked Ape, writes that If you perform nudity in public you destroy its value as an erotic action. Nudists know this to be true in practice.
Women concerned about gawkers should be encouraged to learn that it is socially unacceptable at the places where naturists gather for people to stare, harass, or intimidate others. If someone is making you feel uncomfortable with their comments or behavior, it is right to speak up against it, and to notify the resort manager, activity leader or beach user group volunteer. Unacceptable behavior need not be tolerated.
Men who fear they will get an erection should know that it is rare in nudist / naturist settings. Some say it’s because the initial nervousness of the new situation inhibits a physical sexual response. But the most important reason is that a naturist environment is not sexually charged.
If a man should experience an involuntary erection, the appropriate response would be to casually cover up with a towel, roll over onto his stomach, jump in the water or otherwise excuse himself until the moment passes. Nudist / Naturists know that erections are natural and often involuntary, but it’s considered impolite to flaunt it.
Breaking the link between nudity and sexuality often opens an entirely new dimension of body- and self-acceptance. For most people it’s an exhilarating realization of physical and spiritual freedom.
Men getting erection
Men who fear they will get an erection should know that it is rare in nudist / naturist settings. Some say it’s because the initial nervousness of the new situation inhibits a physical sexual response. But the most important reason is that a naturist environment is not sexually charged.
If a man should experience an involuntary erection, the appropriate response would be to casually cover up with a towel, roll over onto his stomach, jump in the water or otherwise excuse himself until the moment passes. Nudist / Naturists know that erections are natural and often involuntary, but it’s considered impolite to flaunt it.
If a man should experience an involuntary erection, the appropriate response would be to casually cover up with a towel, roll over onto his stomach, jump in the water or otherwise excuse himself until the moment passes. Nudist / Naturists know that erections are natural and often involuntary, but it’s considered impolite to flaunt it.
WHEN TO VISIT
Year-around!! There are pros and cons to both:
Warmer Months - Trips during spring and summer months. The cool river feels amazing on hot days, with cliff jumping rocks upstream from the main area). The hot springs themselves are too hot during a summer day, but are a blast at night. The biggest downside to summer trips is that the main area gets very crowded on the weekends. If you’re looking for any privacy whatsoever, don’t go on a Saturday in June.
Cooler Months - If you can manage an overnight trip mid-week in January or February, chances are good you’ll have the place to yourself (or at least will be sharing it with no more than a handful of others).
Warmer Months - Trips during spring and summer months. The cool river feels amazing on hot days, with cliff jumping rocks upstream from the main area). The hot springs themselves are too hot during a summer day, but are a blast at night. The biggest downside to summer trips is that the main area gets very crowded on the weekends. If you’re looking for any privacy whatsoever, don’t go on a Saturday in June.
Cooler Months - If you can manage an overnight trip mid-week in January or February, chances are good you’ll have the place to yourself (or at least will be sharing it with no more than a handful of others).
Reaching the Hot Springs
At the very bottom of the trail near the spring, you'll have to cross a stream of knee-deep water. Think fording the river, Oregon Trail style, except this river is more of a babbling brook.
Layout of the Hot Springs - The hot springs lie directly on the other side of the river, built directly into the side of a large rock feature. At one point, volunteers constructed a clever four-tiered cascade of pools, which flow down the natural slope of the granite. The lowest tier, feeding directly into a swimming area in the river itself, is the coolest in temperature. The three pools above it get progressively hotter (100+ degrees) as they reach the source of the stream.
On hot days, the greater rock area around the river even has a slack line and small rope swing...tough to beat for natural SoCal swimming holes.
Layout of the Hot Springs - The hot springs lie directly on the other side of the river, built directly into the side of a large rock feature. At one point, volunteers constructed a clever four-tiered cascade of pools, which flow down the natural slope of the granite. The lowest tier, feeding directly into a swimming area in the river itself, is the coolest in temperature. The three pools above it get progressively hotter (100+ degrees) as they reach the source of the stream.
On hot days, the greater rock area around the river even has a slack line and small rope swing...tough to beat for natural SoCal swimming holes.
Cliff Jumps…..Modest Ones Anyway.
Our two favorite spots are both less than a quarter-mile upstream from the hot springs themselves. The first ledge (roughly 35 ft.) is just past the second grouping of sandy beach campsites upstream from the hot springs (past the rocky area). The second spot is a little 20 ft. ledge a little further up where a trail from the PCT leads down to the beach.
Warning: Cliff jumping is really dangerous. You will have to gauge the safety of each jump at your own risk. Water levels fluctuate throughout the year, and from year-to-year. Do your regular depth checks. Do NOT assume that the rocks you see in our photos are automatically safe to jump. Never jump head-first.
Warning: Cliff jumping is really dangerous. You will have to gauge the safety of each jump at your own risk. Water levels fluctuate throughout the year, and from year-to-year. Do your regular depth checks. Do NOT assume that the rocks you see in our photos are automatically safe to jump. Never jump head-first.
How hot is the water at Deep Creek Hot Springs?
90°F(32°C) - 108°F(42°C)
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Elevation 4,500 ft.
Type geothermal
Temperature 90°F(32°C) - 108°F(42°C)
Location of Deep Creek Hot springs in the Mojave Desert
Deep Creek Hot Springs
Elevation 4,500 ft.
Type geothermal
Temperature 90°F(32°C) - 108°F(42°C)
Location of Deep Creek Hot springs in the Mojave Desert