Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes - limited roadside parking
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity is optional but expected
The Good
- Glacial Lake Setting: The cove sits along Lake Willoughby, surrounded by steep mountains that rise directly from the water. It creates a dramatic and almost alpine atmosphere. The landscape feels powerful but still quiet.
- Consistent Naturist Culture: This area has a long-standing clothing-optional tradition that most visitors respect. People tend to follow an unspoken understanding of behavior. It feels steady and predictable.
- Cool Freshwater Swim: The lake offers clean, refreshing freshwater that contrasts nicely with hot summer days. It feels crisp and energizing. Many visitors come specifically for the swim.
- Gradual Water Access: Compared to rocky river spots, entry into the lake is more manageable in certain sections. You can ease into the water rather than jump straight in. It suits a wider range of swimmers.
- Quiet Social Rhythm: The crowd is calm, with people reading, resting, or quietly talking rather than being loud or active. It never feels chaotic. The pace stays slow throughout the day.
- Marked Awareness: The presence of signage indicating possible nudity sets expectations clearly from the start. It helps avoid confusion. Visitors know what kind of place they are entering.
The Bad
- Cold Water Shock: Even in warm weather, the lake stays cold due to its depth. Entering the water can be abrupt. Some visitors may find it uncomfortable at first.
- Shaded Conditions: The surrounding cliffs and trees limit direct sunlight, especially later in the day. It can feel cooler than expected. Sunbathing time is slightly reduced.
- Limited Parking Spots: Parking along the road is scarce and fills quickly during peak periods. Finding a spot can be stressful. It may require walking from farther away.
- Trail Wear and Damage: Previous flooding has affected sections of the trail, making parts uneven or harder to navigate. It is not always a smooth walk. Careful footing is needed.
- Minimal Facilities: There are no amenities such as restrooms or food nearby. Visitors must be fully self-sufficient. This can limit how long you stay.
- Strict Social Norms: The local crowd maintains a respectful environment with no tolerance for inappropriate behavior. While this keeps things calm, it can feel rigid for some visitors.
The Naked Truth
Southwest Cove is a quiet lakeside spot in Vermont with mountain views, plenty of trees and a much more secluded feel than a typical public beach.
There are no major facilities, so this is somewhere to come prepared with whatever you need for the day. The setting is simple and natural, with shaded areas around the shoreline and cool lake water for swimming.
It’s generally better suited to people looking for a peaceful, low-key place to strip off rather than a social naturist scene.
Because it’s quieter and less developed, it can feel more private than many other swimming spots in the area.
If you’re looking for somewhere relaxed and away from the crowds, Southwest Cove is a good option to strip off in Vermont.
Insider Tip
Bring your own food, water, and a towel since there are no facilities nearby. Arrive early to secure parking and follow the shoreline carefully to find the designated area. Midday offers a balance of light and comfort, while still keeping the area quiet.
Who's Here
Mostly locals, regular visitors, and a few travelers who prefer a calm and respectful clothing-optional setting.
Beach Surface
Natural shoreline with a sandy lake bottom and some uneven forest ground near the edges.
Access Difficulty
Easy to moderate - short walk along the shoreline from roadside parking with some uneven ground.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Southwest Cove, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Southwest Cove, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Southwest Cove is located along Lake Willoughby in Westmore, Vermont, within Willoughby State Forest.
By car or on foot: Drive along VT Route 5A and look for parking areas just before or after White Caps Campground when heading north. From there, walk along the shoreline for a few hundred yards until you reach the clothing-optional section marked by a trailhead sign.
By public transport: Public transport options are very limited in this area, making access without a car difficult. The closest approach would involve regional transit followed by a long walk, so private transport is the most practical option.
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