Archive-name: nude-faq/beaches/North-America/East
Last-modified: Fri Sep  6 1996
Posting-Frequency: monthly

  This is one of seven volumes of the "REC.NUDE FAQ: Naturist Site Reports".
  These are posted on the first of each month.

  This volume covers Eastern North America.

  This FAQ answers one question which has an infinite number of variations:
  Where is a nude or clothing-optional beach/resort/campground/B&B/etc.
  near where I am or where I will be?  To answer that, this FAQ lists
  some brief information on some nude or clothing-optional sites that are
  frequently mentioned on rec.nude.  General information on family-oriented
  nude recreation can be found at either of
    ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/nude-faq
    http://www.oxy.edu/~mop/recnude.faqs.html
  Also check out these Naturist home pages:
    http://www.webcom.com/~rngerber/naturist/naturist.html
    http://www.realtime.net:80/~kr4ah/
+ And please read the Free Beach Etiquette page:
+   http://www.sss.org/naturist/misc/Etiquette.html

  This FAQ can't be a replacement for a more thorough source such as
  the World Guide or others listed in the general FAQ mentioned above.
  If you don't see any CO sites on this list which are near you or want
  more information about those listed here, feel free to ask on rec.nude
  (the FAQ maintainer is not a very good source for such information).
  The maintainer of this FAQ takes no responsibility for the accuracy
  of the information contained herein.  Updates to these entries are
  greatly appreciated; this FAQ is only as good as you make it.

  The latest copy of this FAQ may be found at any of:
   ftp://rtfm.mit.edu/pub/usenet/news.answers/nude-faq/beaches (North America)
   ftp://ftp.sunet.se/pub/usenet/news.answers/nude-faq/beaches (Eupope)
   http://www.cis.ohio-state.edu/hypertext/faq/usenet/nude-faq/beaches/top.html
  Archives may also be retrieved by sending e-mail to mail-server@rtfm.mit.edu
  with a body that only contains one or both of the following lines:
send usenet/news.answers/nude-faq/beaches/*
send usenet/news.answers/nude-faq/beaches/North-America/*

  + - and | in the 1st column mark additions/deletions/changes from last month.

  (c) Copyright 1995 Richard M. Mathews.  Copyrights for contributions
  to this document may be retained by their authors who may or may not
  be named below.  Permission is granted to freely distribute this in
  whole or in part provided that it is without profit or service fees
  and that this notice remains attached.

  In this issue:
  	GYMNO-VITA PARK, AL
  	ROCKHAVEN LODGE, TN
  	TIMBERLINE RESORT, TN
  	HAULOVER, FL
  	PLAYALINDA, FL
  	APOLLO BEACH, FL
  	ASSATEAGUE, MD
  	HIGBEE BEACH, NJ
  	SANDY HOOK, NJ
  	TENTH STREET BATHS, NYC
  	LIGHTHOUSE BEACH, NY
  	CHAUTAUQUA GORGE, NY
  	NEW ENGLAND
  	GAY HEAD, MA
  	THE LEDGES, VT
  	LAKE WOOD, ME
  	ILES DES MADELEINES, Que
  	MEECH LAKE, Que
  	PORT DOVER, Ont
  	MAZO BEACH, WI

----------------------------------------------------------------------

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: GYMNO-VITA PARK, AL

  GYMNO-VITA PARK in Vandiver, AL (about 20 min east of Birmingham) is
  a small couples only park.  Since they exclude singles, I have never
  been and can not give an unbiased opinion.  Contact them at Box 121,
  Vandiver, AL  35176; (205) 672-7105.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=vandiver,+al

  	[Original from Alabama FuzzBear <jbear@netcom.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: ROCKHAVEN LODGE, TN

  ROCKHAVEN LODGE is in Murfreesboro, about 40 miles southeast of Nashville
  along I-24.  Small but fun.  Call ahead for info, (615) 896-3553.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=murfreesboro,+tn

  	[Original from Alabama FuzzBear <jbear@netcom.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: TIMBERLINE RESORT, TN

  TIMBERLINE RESORT is near Crossville, half way between Knoxville and
  Nashville.  IMHO well worth the 3 hours it takes to get there from
  Huntsville.  Very Friendly people, fairly young crowd, year round
  activities and well kept grounds.  Call ahead.  (800) TAN-NUDE.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=crossville,+tn

  	[Original from Alabama FuzzBear <jbear@netcom.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: HAULOVER, FL

  HAULOVER BEACH is located in North Miami, 3 or 4 miles south of the
  Broward County line.  Go to the end of 163rd Street (Sunny Isles
  Boulevard) Causeway, and turn right on A1A (aka Collins Ave.).  Go
  about 1 mile south to Haulover Inlet.  Parking on the WEST side of
  Collins costs $3.50 (1996 prices).  Look for the signs Haulover
  Beach County Park/Marina.  This is a very large and well-accepted
  clothing-optional beach.  There are typically thousands of people
  there.  Legal, good parking, short walk, restrooms, showers, food
  and beverage concessionaires, lifeguards and even police protection.
  Gawkers are not uncommon, though.  The northern portion is mostly gay.
  For information, contact
  	South Florida Free Beaches
  	P.O. Box 330902
  	Coconut Grove, FL  33133
  	(305) 893-8838, Fax 893-8823

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=mia

  	[Original from Richard Kenner <kenner@lab.ultra.nyu.edu>,
  	John Meaker <kr4ah@bga.com>,
  	and DGrassi <dgrassi@aol.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: PLAYALINDA, FL

  PLAYALINDA is located near the space shuttle launch area at Cape
  Canaveral.  Take the SR 406/Titusville exit from I-95.  Go east.
  From Titusville, take Rt. 406 to Rt. 402 to the Canaveral National
  Seashore Turn left, and go for 5 miles to parking lot 13 or as far
  north as possible to avoid a long walk (lot 13 fills early).  Take
  crossover 13B, and stay north.  Bring water.

  Playalinda is closed the day before, day of, and day after a shuttle
  launch (see http://www.osf.hq.nasa.gov/shuttle/futsts.html for a list
  of upcoming missions or call (407) 867-4636 for recorded info on
  launch dates).  If it is closed for a launch, try South Apollo Beach
  (see "APOLLO BEACH, FL").

  DO NOT walk in the dunes or carry glass bottles to the beach.  Both
  will cost you a $25 fine if caught and ticketed.

  Call the Central Florida Naturists (CFN) at (407) 381-0637 for more
  details.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=titusville,+fl

  NOTE: The county and the local office of the National Park Service
  have been attempting to rid Playalinda of CO activity.  The county has
  passed an ordinance which took effect in June, 1995, banning nudity.
  NPS rangers are under orders from above not to enforce it.  Local
  sheriffs have begun enforcing it, but only south of crossover 13B.
  Do not believe the Park Service signs, as the Sheriff ignores them and
  the Park Service allows this.  An appeals court ruled in March, 1996,
  that the county has the burden of proving that they should be allowed
  to enforce the ordinance on Federal land, and they were given 30 days
  to submit their arguments.  The county has submitted its response
  (late), and it is now up to the judge.  CFN is asking those who want
  to keep this beach open for clothing-optional use to come to the beach
  at Parking Lot 13 and show your support.  Large numbers of people are
  needed to show that we are not an insignificant group.  You do not have
  to be nued to protest.  CFN will have volunteers there every day the
  beach is open with arm-bands, hats, etc. that have a political message
  on them.  CFN officials will advise you of your rights to protest this
  ordinance using these items.  All are welcome, nude or clothed.  For
  latest information on alerts from CFN and NAC, see
  	http://nebula.ispace.com/cfn/

  	[Original from Steve Pierce <steve@rtfm.mlb.fl.us>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: APOLLO BEACH, FL

  APOLLO BEACH is located at Canaveral National Seashore.  Unlike,
  Playalinda (see "PLAYALINDA, FL"), there is no history of arrests
  and no anti-nudity law.  The only problem is VERY LIMITED parking.
  Next closest parking lot is several miles away.  Take the New Smyrna
  Beach/Highway 44 exit off of I-95.  Go east.  From the intersection
  of Highway 44 and A1A near New Smyrna Beach, go south for 8 miles and
  park in parking lot 5 or as far south as possible.  Walk to the right,
  south of parking lot 5, to marker 29, where the nude area begins.  Call
  (407) 867-2805 for beach info.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=new+smyrna,+fl

  	[Original from "unknown"]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: ASSATEAGUE, MD

  ASSATEAGUE National Seashore in Maryland is about a 2.5 to 3 hour drive
  from Baltimore or Washington, DC.  The CO area is in the National Seashore,
  but you need to walk through the State Park to get to it.  Note that the
  Virginia end of Assateague National Seashore and the Assateague State
  Park in Maryland are off-limits to nude use.  It is the Maryland portion
  of the National Seashore which is CO.

  To get there, take US 50 east.  As you approach Ocean City, look for
  Maryland route 611 on your right.  Turn right onto 611 and follow signs
  to Assateague *State* Park -- at the bridge, go straight.  Parking is
  $2.00/person (1995 price).  The beach itself is free.  At the bathhouse,
  face the ocean, turn left, and walk northward up the beach for about
  45-60 minutes or until you see other nude people, whichever comes
  first.  Unfortunately, you won't find a group of people; they usually
  just scatter all up and down the beach, so there is very little cohesion
  among the visitors.  What a shame.  The beach is supposed to be marked
  with kilometer signs which start counting from the Ocean City Inlet and
  increase southward.  These are sometimes tough to see, but they serve
  to provide you a location on the beach.  The boundary of the CO area is
  at about the 7.5 marker and was demarked by the end of the sand fence
  along the dunes, unless it has washed away.  Previously there was a
  "National Park Service Boundary" sign, which is now gone.  Also gone
  are the telephone poles which served as markers in years past.

  Bring lots of fly repellent.

  Also check out
    http://www.ssnet.com/~zickus/np-ains.html

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=sby

  NOTE: In Summer, 1995, NAC reported that beach is having problems
  with law enforcement.  Other reports indicate that the rangers are
  still friendly to naturists.  In 1996, Maryland and the NPS agreed
  to begin Concurrent Jurisdiction.  NPS rangers could now enforce
  Maryland anti-nudity laws, but the NPS Superintendant says that have
  no intention of changing their policy of toleration in the traditional
  nude-use area.  Whether Maryland law enforcement might come into the
  area is unknown.  There are a number of "nudity prohibited" signs
  outside the traditional nude-use area.  To be safe, stay north of the
  7.5 km marker, absolutely stay out of the dunes, absolutely stay out
  of the plover nesting area, be respectful of clothed visitors, and
  cover up if you see a ranger approaching.
  	[Original from Mark Cornick <cornick@delphi.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: HIGBEE BEACH, NJ

  HIGBEE BEACH is on Cape May at the south end of New Jersey on Delaware
  Bay.  It has been rumored to have been clothing-optional for many
  decades.  This is attributed to its highly secluded location, limited
  parking and limited access from the public in general.  It requires
  patience and a lengthly hike to get there, or you may access the beach
  by boat.  Either way, it's well worth the journey and effort to get
  there.

  It is a fairly narrow beach, though almost a mile long.  The sand is
  a bit pebbly, especially at the south end; and being on the bay,
  there's no surf.  Unlike Assateague (see "ASSATEAGUE, MD"), though,
  it's easy to get to and hassle-free (except for the closed parking
  lots, see below).  Unlike Sandy Hook (see "SANDY HOOK, NJ"), it is
  not at all crowded.  Very nice, especially if you're more interested
  in sunning than swimming.

  Biting flies and Green Head flies will actually drive you off the beach
  when the surface winds are from the east and less than 15 knots.  Check
  the Marine Weather forecast in your local newspaper for direction and
  speed before coming to the beach.  Otherwise bring lots of DEET type
  bug spray for the biting flies and a fly swatter for the Green Head
  flies.  Nothing else will stop these relentless monsters!  The best
  way to avoid biters is to get a raft and float on the water, stay
  cool, and get sun.

  To get to Higbee beach, take the Golden State Parkway south to Cape
  May and follow signs to the Cape May-Lewes ferry.  Just after the RR
  crossing, turn left on County Route 626, Seashore Rd.  If coming from
  the ferry, Seashore Rd. is the 3rd light, and you turn right.  Cross
  over a bridge across the intercoastal waterway to County Route 641,
  New England Rd.  You will see a sign for Higbee Wildlife Management
  Area.  Turn right.  If you follow New England Road to the end, you
  will come to the Higbee parking lot which unfortunately is closed
  from Memorial Day to Labor day.  Instead, park at the lot on the left
  just after passing Route 607, Bay Shore Rd.  This lot is about a mile
  from the beach.  Walk to the end of New England Road, and just keep
  going straight.  Once you reach the beach, the CO beach begins near
  a large, half-buried driftwood tree about 100 yards to the left of
  where you reach the beach.

  Alternately, stay on route 626 until Route 606, Sunset Road.  Turn
  right and follow this to its end at Sunset Beach.  Go onto the beach
  and turn right.   About 2000 feet north of Sunset Road you will cross
  some pilings and a drainage pipe of some sort.  Walk about 100-150
  yards farther down the beach until you pass a second set of pilings.
  You're there.

  The north and south ends of the beach tend to be straight while the
  middle tends to be gay.

  Stay on the designated trails, stay out of the dunes, and off of the
  shrubbery!

  Also check out
    http://www.webcom.com/~rngerber/naturist/usa/NJ/Higbee.html

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=acy

  	[Original from Jim Rogers <jrogers@cis.edu>
  	and "E.V." <evvvvv@ix.netcom.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: SANDY HOOK, NJ

  SANDY HOOK is officially recognized as a nude beach by the National
  Park Service.  It is in the NE corner of the part of New Jersey which
  sticks into the Hudson River.  From the North take the Garden State
  Parkway to exit 117, and follow the signs to Sandy Hook.  From the
  South on the Garden State Parkway, look for signs for Route 36E, exit
  105.  Follow 36E all the way to 1 block short of the ocean & turn left
  to continue on rt 36 to Sandy Hook.

  When you arrive, ask the ranger at the gate for directions to the nude
  beach (Gunnison), Parking lot G.  From Memorial Day through Labor Day,
  pay $5 on weekends, $4 on weekdays, $40 for the season (1995 prices).
  Go by all the early beaches, continue past a guard house in the middle
  of the road-- you don't stop,  go past the so-called fishing area, stay
  to the right when the road splits directions.  You'll know you are close
  when you have to slow down to a crawl as you come around a curve and
  come upon people crossing from woods on the left to a beach pathway
  on the right.  Continue STRAIGHT ahead (do not turn right toward North
  Beach) and you'll see parking lot G.  When you get to the beach, walk
  down and bare to the right.  You will see signs that warn that nude
  sunbathers may be encountered beyond this point.  Continue to the far
  end if you prefer the gay section.

  There are lifeguards and a refreshment stand.  Nudity is not a problem;
  the beach has been CO for 30 years.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=ewr

  	[Original from "unknown"]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: TENTH STREET BATHS, NYC

  THE TENTH STREET BATHS AND HEALTH CLUB (aka the Russian and Turkish
  baths) is located at 268 E. 10th street in Manhattan, between 1st Ave
  and Ave A.  They are open 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
  Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday are open to both men and women;
  Thursday and Sunday are men-only; Wednesday is women-only.  Entrance
  fee is about $20.  Their phone numbers are (210) 674-9250 and
  (210) 473-8806.

  There are large (10-15 people) regular steam and Russian steam rooms.
  There is also a four to six person sauna and a small swimming pool size
  cold plunge.  There is a small restaurant area that serves awful looking
  Russian food and beverages.  There are probably more than 20 massage
  rooms.  Massage styles run the gamut from Russian to shiatsu to new
  age.  Massages are $40 per hour, $24(?) for a half hour (1994 prices).
  There is a fairly complete gym and sundeck upstairs and a tanning bed.
  There is a common dressing area with bunks for a lie-down.

  It is not officially clothing optional, but nudity (total or partial)
  is not uncommon.  Nude or not, it's still the best place in NYC to
  retreat on frigid days.  This is a comfortable environment with a
  relaxed and permissive attitude conducive to social nudity that could
  be further expanded by the "beach regulars".  I do believe that the
  place could be more open about nudity (which is more or less *winked
  at* now) and eventually become the equivalent of Kiva Retreat in Santa
  Cruz, Ca.  I have heard people (of both sexes) in the steam rooms
  comment that these are facilities meant to be used without clothing,
  and comparing them to European facilities where clothing is banned.
  People are led by example, though, and more of the beach regulars
  could do the leading.

  There *is* a different atmosphere in the alternate weeks between David's
  and Boris' management, with David's being a little more conservative.
  I have heard him mildly criticize a women for baring her breasts, to
  a laughing *mind your own business* response.
  	[Original from PAR1N <par1n@aol.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: LIGHTHOUSE BEACH, NY

  LIGHTHOUSE BEACH is in Long Island, east of the Fire Island Lighthouse
  on the "west" end of Fire Island.  It starts immediately to the east of
  the east end of Robert Moses State Park.  It's the most populated of the
  three CO beaches on Long Island.

  Information can be obtained from
  	Friends of Lighthouse Beach
  	PO Box 571
  	Babylon, NY  11702

  Take the Southern State Parkway or the Northern State, whichever is
  closer to you.  Go to the Wantagh Parkway South (which is Exit 27S on
  the Southern State).  When you get to the end of the Wantagh Parkway
  you will reach a big circle going around a lighthouse or water-tower.
  Follow the circle, and continue on Ocean Parkway (which was to the left
  as you approached the circle).  Get off at the Robert Moses State Park
  exit, and go over the bridge.

  Alternately, from Southern or Nothern State, take Sagtikos State Highway
  and Robert Moses Causeway to the park.

  At the end of the bridge is another circle around a lighthouse/water-tower.
  Again, follow the circle, and go to the road to the left.  Take this road
  to field 5, and park in the northeast corner of the field (closest to
  the lighthouse) ($4.00 per car/van per day; 1995 prices).

  After you park, walk out to the road you were just on.  Follow it in
  the same direction you were driving.  At the end of the road, there is
  a walk-in entrance to a big circle.  Take the path to the right.
  	[Original from Jon Nowak <ER5QC@CUNYVM.BITNET>
  	and TnMinCt@aol.com]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: CHAUTAUQUA GORGE, NY

  CHAUTAUQUA GORGE is a very scenic site near Westfield in the westernmost
  part of New York.  There are several small waterfalls which are very
  refreshing after hiking on a warm day.  There are also small pools for
  soaking or swimming a few strokes and level space along the creek for
  sunbathing.  Sandals are recommended as you may have to cross the creek
  a number of times along the way.

  Directions: From the New York State Thruway (I-90), take the Westfield
  exit (No. 60).  Follow state route 394 a short distance south to the
  center of Westfield.  Turn right onto U.S. 20.  After crossing a
  bridge, turn left at the first street, Chestnut Street (county road
  21).  Follow C.R. 21 south for about 3.3 miles and then turn left onto
  Ogden Road.  Follow Ogden road 1.5 miles and then turn left onto Taylor
  Road (a gravel road).  Follow Taylor Road a short distance to the dead
  end sign where there is a small parking area on the left.  A very rough
  road continues down into a deep valley.  Follow this until you reach the
  creek, then turn left (downstream).  Soon you will see a sign painted on
  a rock saying "nudist area next one mile".  From there, if you follow the
  creek, you will pass several small waterfalls until you get to Skinny Dip
  Falls.
  	[Original from Jeff Riddlebaugh <scridd@lims02.lerc.nasa.gov>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: NEW ENGLAND

  A great source for information on New England is
    http://www.tiac.net/users/aeon/pilgrm.html

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: GAY HEAD, MA

  GAY HEAD is a set of high clay cliffs at the western end of Martha's
  Vinyard, named for the bands of color in the clay.  The beach at the
  base of the cliffs sees a fair amount of nude use.

  Take Moshup Trail Road to Gay Head Cliffs, and park in the lot.  From
  the beach entrance, go to the right (to the cliffs).  It is about a 10
  minute walk down Moshup trail to the beach.  This brings you to Moshup
  beach, where nudity is NOT permitted.  Hike to the right at least 0.3
  miles and you will be off of Moshup beach, below the cliffs, and in the
  right place.  If the first portion of CO beach you find is too rocky,
  keep going around the head to where the beach becomes sandy again.  Past
  the lighthouse there is even more sand.

  Martha's Vinyard can be reached by ferry from Wood's Hole.  Bringing a
  car on the ferry is expensive and requires reservations.  Bike and moped
  rentals are available on the island.  The bus to Gay Head leaves from
  near the steamship authority just a few minutes after the ferry unloads.
  The AYH hostel is 8 miles away.

  Lucy Vincent beach, a few miles to the east is available to residents or
  those who are renting houses in Chilmark.  It is CO as well.
  	[Original from Jeffrey L Bell <jlbell@engin.umich.edu>
  	and Mike Leibensperger <mjl@locus.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: THE LEDGES, VT

  THE LEDGES is a set of flat granite outcroppings at the Harriman Reservoir
  in southern Vermont.  There is a cliff to jump off of when the water level
  is high.  Some people have been known to go nude waterskiing.  The water
  is cool and clear.

  The crowd is a good mix of singles, couples, and families, who are
  extremely outgoing by Vermont standards.  Most of them visit regularly,
  and make it a habit to pick up litter.

  To get to the Ledges, find the three way intersection that is the
  junction of Rte 9 and Rte 100, located a mile east of Wilmington,
  VT.  Travel south on Rte 100 for 1.2 miles until you come to a dirt
  side road that bears to the right, labeled "NEPCO Picnic area" (NEPCO
  is New England Power Company).  Travel one mile to the end of the dirt
  road.  Park in the lot as far north as you can.  From the north end of
  the picnic area follow a well used path into the woods.  After about 5
  minutes there is a small stream.  The Ledges are about another 5 minutes
  continuing around the lake.  Wear good walking shoes as the trail is
  often rough and covered with brush.  Please stay in the traditional
  nude area and observe the appropriate non-sexual naturist etiquette.
  In August, 1995, signs were in the process of being added to discourage
  nude use in the traditionally textile areas and buffer zone.

  From Boston take Mass 2 to I-91 to Vt. 9 west.  Driving time is 2:40
  hours plus 20 minutes repacking and walking.  Avail yourself of the
  outhouses near the parking, as there are none at the Ledges proper.

  Note that the parking areas fill up very fast on holiday weekends,
  and cars parked along the road will be towed.  Additional parking
  restrictions on the access road are being considered (August, 1995).
  	[Original from Jeffrey L Bell <jlbell@engin.umich.edu>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: LAKE WOOD, ME

  LAKE WOOD is a small fresh-water lake on Mt. Desert Island.  Most of the
  lake is contained in Acadia National Park, and it has a public beach at
  one end; however, a short walk around the lake brings you to a popular
  local nude sunning and swimming area.

  The lake itself is fairly shallow and warm enough for comfortable swimming.
  It's small enough that some people swim across it.  There are a couple
  of logs anchored a little ways off the nude area which you can sun on,
  dive off of, etc.  The nude area is a collection of rock ledges on the
  side of the lake.  They are oriented so that they get the afternoon sun,
  so you may not want to get there until at least late morning.  You can
  scramble down to get to the water at either end of the ledges, or you
  can jump or dive off.

  WARNING: You must be careful, since there's quite a bit of rubble in the
  water at the base of the ledges, so you have to dive "far enough" out.
  I don't know how deep the water is, either.  I wasn't willing to try
  jumping or diving myself, although I did see a number of others doing
  it.  KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING!

  I understand that this is quite a popular spot -- I was told that there
  were 60 people the day before we first visited.  The usage seemed to be
  predominantly "local" (this includes people coming down from Ellsworth,
  half an hour away on the mainland), but there were some visitors as well.
  Almost no one was clothed here.  Although there were a few couples, we
  didn't see any families with children.  (They were probably at the sandy
  public beach at the end of the lake.)  The users were generally friendly;
  some were ... colorful.

  DIRECTIONS.

  Opposite the Acadian Restaurant in Hulls Cove on Rte 3 (a few miles
  north of Bar Harbor), turn inland on Crooked Road.  (If this sounds
  imprecise, don't worry.  Hulls Cove is about two block long.)  About
  half a mile along Crooked Road, you will see a collection of gravel
  pits and quarrying operations.  Just past the gravel pits, the second
  dirt road to your left leads to Lake Wood.  (There is a Park sign near
  the beginning of the road giving the public access hours for the area.)

  The dirt road first reaches a grassy parking area, then turns right and
  down hill to larger parking areas and eventually the beach.  You want
  to park in the first, grassy area and walk on the trail that continues
  straight ahead.  The trail passes through woods, then through a
  semi-open area (with excellent blueberry picking in season), and then
  back into the woods.  A short way further on, it comes to the top of
  the ledges by the lake, and several side trails lead down to your right
  over the ledges.  Make your way downhill and you should be at the nude
  area.  (There will probably be nude people around.  If not, look around
  a little more.)  The total walk in from the parking is probably about
  ten minutes.

  If you have trouble finding the trail, or finding the lake from it (I
  don't expect that you will), you can also go down to the public
  swimming area, than work your way to the left around the lake shore
  until you get to the ledges (look for the nude people, or for the logs
  anchored off shore).  This is considerably more of a scramble, though
  the trail is much easier.
  	[Original from Neil Faiman <faiman@moira.enet.dec.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: ILES DES MADELEINES, Que

  ILES DES MADELEINES (Magdellan Islands) in the Gulf of St. Lawrence,
  Quebec, have miles and miles of virtually deserted sandy beaches, with
  nice dunes in many places.  There are something like 5 islands in the
  group connected by narrow sandy peninsulas with paved roads throughout.
  There were a few small motels; but I'd recommend camping.  All the beaches
  appeared completely public and very accessible.  The official tourist
  bureau people basically said/mumbled that nudity was OK anywhere away
  from "main beaches" (meaning the beach right by the parking lot).  Walk
  10 minutes away from the "crowd" and you can strip.

  We went the first week of August, and it was quite warm and the water
  was warm too (I'm guessing 66-72, not bad for the St. Lawrence).  I saw
  nude use at most beaches I went to; in some cases I was the only person
  there!  There didn't seem to be any gawking either.  Sand flies were the
  worst nuisance.

  Your first destination is Prince Edward Island.  That is quite a
  beautiful place, very scenic, wonderful lobster dinners, but sadly
  very little established nude use.  HOWEVER, you drive there (there's
  a ferry in that picture, yes) in order to take the (next) ferry to the
  Magdellan Islands (a 5 hour trip).

  For more information about naturism in Canada, check out
    http://www.interlog.com/~fcn/fcn.html

  	[Original from Ed Sterling <ed@boston.simware.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: MEECH LAKE, Que

  MEECH LAKE is located in Gatineau Park, just across the Ottawa River
  from Ottawa in Quebec.  It has a couple of beach areas that are frequented
  by nudists.  These beaches are not officially clothing-optional (CO);
  but they have existed for a number of years, and no one seems to make
  a fuss.  There is a sign which states "Nudity prohibited in Gatineau
  Park."  People have been out swimming when the rangers pulled up in
  boats, and they were politely asked to just go put on some clothes.

  Pick up Highway 5 in Quebec and follow it to the town of Old Chelsea.
  After exiting the highway, turn left and proceed into Gatineau park.
  The road you are on will take you directly to the lake, although some
  park signs may suggest that you take a longer route.  When approaching
  the lake, you may see a small government sign for "O'Brien House".  A
  few yards later is a parking lot for "O'Brien Beach".  This is the lot
  that you want.  Parking is $5.50/day in the summer (1995 prices), with
  summer passes also available ($30.00), but it is limited and does fill
  up.  Alternative parking is hard to find, and cars parked illegally
  tend to disappear.

  The path leading directly to the lake (at the far end of the parking
  lot) leads to O'Brien Beach, a typical textile beach.  The path you
  want crosses the gravel road leading to O'Brien House and proceeds up
  a large hill.  It then runs alongside the road for a few yards before
  turning into the woods.  You will eventually come to a very steep hill
  leading down to the lake.  The gravel on the hill is maintained a bit,
  but you will probably want good shoes for this part.  Also remember that
  you are going to have to come up this hill at the end of the day.  At
  the bottom of the hill, a wooden bridge crosses a small stream.  This
  stream flows between the main lake (on the left) and a smaller sub-lake
  (on the right).  There are CO beaches on both of these lakes.

  The main area used by sun lovers is at the far end of the smaller
  sub-lake, at the ruins of an old mill (the Carbide Wilson Ruins; worth
  exploring).  A few yards past the bridge there is a small path leading
  off to the right.  Though this goes to the place you want, second right
  after the bridge is a better path.  This path is wide enough for vehicles
  (only maintenance traffic is allowed and it is rare), and is much easier
  going.  Since this beach is mostly rock, many people bring air mattresses
  to make things more comfortable.  These are also good for floating around
  in the lagoon and the far end of the small lake.

  The second area that is used by nudists is on the main lake.  After
  crossing the wooden bridge, take the first path to the left rather
  than to the right.  This will lead to a very small sandy beach and
  a small grassy area.  This space will only hold a handful of people,
  but it is a nice place to sit and the entrance to the water is very
  gradual.  This is the area I like to take my kids to, and they love
  to play at the water's edge.  This area has only been used by nudists
  for a few years and you are more likely to encounter clothed people
  here.  This has never been a problem, however.

  Remember that this is real forest area.  You are not going to find toilets
  or a Coke machine.  You should be prepared to clean up after yourself and
  carry out whatever you carried in.  What you will find are some beautiful
  lakes and wilderness to enjoy, naturally.  The stores near the highway
  are a good (but expensive) place to pick-up last minute supplies.

  For more information about naturism in Canada, check out
    http://www.interlog.com/~fcn/fcn.html

  	[Original from Andrew Patrick <andrew@calvin.dgbt.doc.ca>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: PORT DOVER, Ont

  POTENTIAL CO BEACH NEAR PORT DOVER, ONTARIO:

  Since June, '95, an attempt is being made to to establish this beach
  as CO.  This may or many not be successful.  Use at your own risk.
  It has been used CO at least a dozen times in summer of '95 with no
  hassle.  Recently, there were five CO users there, including a couple
  who happened on the beach entirely by accident, although they actively
  seek out nude/CO beaches whenever possible.

  As of April, 1996, it is now reported that this is a private beach and
  the residents plan to complain about trespassers.  Police say they do
  not care about what goes on with the beach.  They will only go there if
  there is a complaint.  If there called there, they intend to just inform
  the occupants that the beach is private property and ask them to move
  on.  Reportedly, no charges will be laid.  They have more important
  things to do during the busy time of year.  Even so, be cautious and
  courteous.  Directions to a nearby area that is undeveloped will be
  added here soon.

  Directions to potential CO Beach near Port Dover

  From Toronto area:  Go west on the QEW through Burlington to Hwy 403.
  Take Hwy 403 past Hamilton to Fiddler's Green.  Exit at Fiddler's Green
  and turn right at the lights.  Follow the signs for Hamilton/Mount Hope
  Airport to Hwy 6.  Take Hwy 6 to Port Dover.  (Hwy 6 south of Jarvis is
  under construction.  Turn right at the lights in Jarvis and follow the
  detour signs into Port Dover as necessary.)

  From Port Dover:  Follow Main Street or Radical Road out of town to the
  west.  You are now driving parallel to Lake Erie.  Turn left (toward the
  lake) at Blue Line Road, approx. 4 km out of Port Dover.  Follow Blue
  Line Road to it's end.  There will be a small pumping station on your
  right.  Park your car here.  Walk straight toward the water and down
  the hill.  As you get toward the bottom there will be a small structure
  on your right guarded on two sides by very large tires.  Turn right and
  walk above this structure.  When you get past the tires, you are there!

  Elapsed time - depending on where you started in TO, approx. two hours.
  From Burlington, approx. 1 1/4 hours.

  Recommendations:

  First, follow all the usual CO beach etiquette rules.

  Second, since this beach is occasionally used by people other than
  nudists, PLEASE put up some sort of sign similar to the one I do:
  CLOTHING OPTIONAL AHEAD - NUDITY MAY BE ENCOUNTERED.
  It is my strong hope that this will give anyone approaching the beach
  enough warning to make an informed choice about their use of the beach.
  (The beach to the left of the tires is, in fact, a nicer beach so no one
  who chooses not to use the CO side should feel cheated in any way.)  It
  may also put us in a more defensible position should local officialdom
  choose to get involved at some point.  Put signs on the path immediately
  above the tire structure (there is a nice little sandy spot about 2/3 of
  the way along) AND below, near where the point of the structure meets the
  water.  This will catch those just walking along the beach.

  Third, HAVE FUN!

  Hope to see you there.

  For more information about naturism in Canada, check out
    http://www.interlog.com/~fcn/fcn.html

  	[Original from Bill Woodley <rn.6042@rose.com>]

------------------------------
From: richard@West.Sun.COM (Richard M. Mathews)
Subject: MAZO BEACH, WI

  MAZO BEACH, on the Wisconsin River near Madison, is a lovely, peaceful,
  respectful little sandbar among the willows, the loons and the gentle
  running water.  Across the river are tree lined bluffs, and a hundred
  feet away, across a shallow soft-sand strait, is another little sandbar.
  The beach is clean and wide, the sand is deep and nice, the water is cool
  and perfect for wading, the crowd is very friendly and well-behaved.  No
  boom boxes or loud boozers, just the occasional acoustic guitar player.
  Very, _very_ nice.  Unfortunately, the water is rather shallow, in some
  places barely enough for swimming, in other places little more than ankle
  deep.

  In contrast with the above, the river can sometimes be very dangerous
  due to swift currents.  There have been a number of deaths and injuries
  in the area, generally involving drunk textiles.  Even so, naturists
  should beware.  The local Fire Chief writes:
    The Wisconsin River is beautiful and refreshing but it demands
    respect.  If not inherently dangerous, it is lethally unforgiving.
    Please wear life preservers, walk upstream on sandbars, and come
    back to enjoy the river again.

  From Madison take US 14 west about 15-20 miles to Mazomanie.  When you
  get to the town, take a right onto County Y (about the 3rd street; the
  sign might be obscured by a tree).  After you cross the railroad tracks
  you will hit a tee where County Y jogs over to the east one block; these
  turns are marked.  About 4 miles from US14, turn left onto Laws Road.  In
  a couple hundred yards, turn left onto a gravel road.  You'll know it by
  all the cars driving into or out of it.  You'll definitely know it when
  you see all the cars parked along the side of the road.  The road ends in
  a small parking lot.  The river is to the right.  You'll see just a few
  people when you first get onto the beach, but keep going to the right of
  where you came in.  Don't plan on finding a space in the lot unless you
  go late enough in the afternoon that some people have started to leave
  or early in the morning; otherwise, grab a spot roadside when you find
  one.  Park only on the west side of the road facing southward.

  Weather reports for the area can be found at
    http://www.webwx.com/cgi/ww.cgi?region=msn

  For current information about the beach, contact FRIENDS OF MAZO BEACH
  at PO box 42, Sauk City, WI 53585-0042 or phone 608-798-1954.
  	[Original from Bill Pfeiffer <wdp@airwaves.chi.il.us>,
  	Robert Paolino <rpaolino@polisci.pol.umn.edu>,
  	and Rich Weyand <weyand@mcs.com>]

End of nude-faq/beaches/North-America/East Digest
*************************************************

Richard M. Mathews	| On the fourth day of telecommuting, I realized
richard@west.sun.com	| that clothes are totally unnecessary.  -- Dilbert
