Los Padres Reservoir
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Rating: C
Being what the British call "starkers" is illegal at Los Padres Reservoir, some 20 miles east of Carmel, but when summer temperatures climb into the 90s or beyond, it isn't unusual to spot a few young nudies taking the plunge. Rather than risk citations, some like to sunbathe without suits in lakeside areas sheltered from easy view. The swim spots are around five miles east of Carmel Village, off Carmel Valley Road (G-16).
Legal status:
Unknown. The reservoir is adjacent to, but not in, Los Padres National Forest. But the paths appear to be maintained by the U.S. Forest Service. Rangers are rarely present. Even though the reservoir has a long history of secret nude use, skinny-dippers may be cited.
How to find it:
From Highway 1 in Carmel, follow Carmel Valley Road (G-16) about 20 miles east, passing Carmel Village, to Cachagua Road. Turn right on Cachagua, then right on Nason Road. Take Nason to the dirt parking lot at the end. From the lot, follow the path until it forks. Then follow signs to the dam, rather than the campground. Skinny-dippers usually pick spots between a half-mile and a mile up the trail.
The beach:
Land next to a reservoir.
The crowd:
Usually just you, but on hot days, you may see naturists and/or suited swimmers.
Problems:
Swimming not permitted; better directions needed; legal status unknown.
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