Rooster Rock State Park’s clothing-optional area remains protected after public advocacy
Advocacy efforts lead Oregon Parks Department to withdraw proposed rule change threatening nude beach boundaries
In a welcome win for the naturist community, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has withdrawn a proposed rule change that could have made it easier to alter the well-defined boundaries of the clothing-optional area at Rooster Rock State Park. The decision came during an online public hearing held on January 15, 2025, which saw robust participation from advocates and concerned citizens.
Proposed changes and community response
The OPRD had suggested modifying Oregon Administrative Rule (OAR) 736-010-0065 to replace the existing fixed geographic boundaries of the clothing-optional section with references to maps available on the department’s website. This adjustment raised concerns among naturists, who feared it could lead to future reductions of the designated area without adequate public notice or input.
Mike Parker, Chair of the Willamettans Government Affairs Team (GAT), played a pivotal role in mobilizing the community against the proposal. In the January Willies GAT report, Parker highlighted the potential risks of the change and encouraged members to participate in the public hearing and submit comments to the OPRD. His efforts were instrumental in ensuring a strong turnout at the hearing, with over 80 participants, predominantly naturists, voicing their concerns.
Outcome of the public hearing
During the January 15 hearing, the OPRD acknowledged the community’s concerns and announced the discontinuation of the proposed rule change. This decision underscores the impact of organized advocacy and the importance of public participation in policy-making processes. The department emphasized that there were no intentions to alter the current boundaries of the clothing-optional area and that the proposal aimed solely to modernize and clarify existing regulations.
The American Association for Nude Recreation Northwest (AANR-NW) has maintained a collaborative relationship with the OPRD for over two decades. Since 2002, AANR-NW has officially adopted Rooster Rock State Park through the State Adopt-A-Park program. This partnership has facilitated numerous initiatives, including clean-up events, trail maintenance, and environmental conservation efforts such as tree planting during Earth Day events. These activities have not only enhanced the park’s amenities but also fostered a positive rapport between the naturist community and park authorities.
Community reactions
The naturist community has expressed relief and appreciation for the outcome. In a recent AANR Weekly Report, the organization extended gratitude to all who contributed to the advocacy efforts, highlighting the significance of collective action in protecting naturist spaces. Parker also conveyed his thanks to those who submitted comments and attended the virtual hearing, noting the effectiveness of their combined efforts in safeguarding the clothing-optional area at Rooster Rock State Park. 🪐
Previously:
Rooster Rock faces threat to nude beach boundaries
Rooster Rock State Park, one of Oregon’s premier locations for naturists and home to the country’s first officially designated clothing-optional beach, faces a potential change in how its clothing-optional boundaries are defined. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has proposed a rule change that could pave the way for easier future reductions to the clothing-optional area.
I was only one of many in the northwest AANR Government Affairs Team that worked on this effort! Thanks to all, we will see no shrinkage in the nude beach area this winter and beyond!
I was on the Zoom call that I had registered for. They mentioned very early on the large number of emails from people concerned with the status of the clothing optional beach of Rooster Rock and based on the input, they would not make any changes to its status. I wonder how the sign language interpreter would show "clothing optional beach"? I am happy one of my favourite naturist beaches stays safe.