I posted this same topic about a year ago and got an informed thread that said the rules at Smithvile are that genitals must be covered.(I am referring to the public swimming areas) So, going topless and wearing a thong is legal. So my question this year is " How do we get this more accepted?" I say "get the word out" perhaps we should organize a group weekend where "regular" people go and enjoy being topfree instead of the occasional rebel. Afterall, if we can get this activity socially acceptable then the next logical step is to allow completely nude sunbathing/swimming. What do you think?

Catdog

I'll be interested in what others have to offer on your message. The thread from last year that catdog references is back about number 9 on the archive list -look for a June 30th, 2002 entry with subject "topfree at Smithville" There was one comment from a couple who'd made inquiry at the gate and learned that topfree was apparently OK at the public beaches.

I will caution that this could be a Ranger inrpretation - which might vary from one Ranger to the next. It'd be an interesting question to pose again I suppose but probably posed best by a couple or by a female. If I entered the gate solo asking where the topfree area was for the ladies it'd probabaly strike them as a question driven by less than wholesome intentions.

Anyway - keep us updated on this year's happenings and I'd love to hear some opinions on catdog's thesis -more topfree sunbathing could lead to ever greater acceptance and participation. Whether that could lead to outright nude bathing or sunning in the public-use areas or not - well that's a big step.

Till then - Heartland Cove or other stretches of lonely beach provide the the best bet for all over sunning and skinnydipping. And I'll rehash the old refrain - the Cove is not signed, not sanctioned and basically exists as long as Cove users keep it orderly, clean and safe.

Thanks for the post catdog - let's hear some other views.

Dick

I've been researching our favorite pastime and have come up with the following. There is no Federal or Missouri State Law which prohibits Public Nudity.

The Federal Government leaves it up to the States, Missouri leaves it up to the Cities and Counties to do so if they choose. Heartland Cove happens to fall in Clinton County (the Clay County Line is approximately 1000 feet to the south)

I have not been able to discover if Clinton County has any public nudity ordinances. I suspect that since Clinton County is not "Online" it would require a direct inquiry at the courthouse. If anyone does make that inquiry let us know

For the Record Missouri Statutes do define public nudity "Full or partial nudity", the showing of all or any part of the human genitals or pubic area or buttock, or any part of the nipple of the breast of any female person, with less than a fully opaque covering.

Translation = Thongs and translucent (wet or dry)bathing suits do qualify as "Public Nudity"

http://www.moga.state.mo.us/statutes/C500-599/5730507.HTM
Missouri Revised StatutesChapter 573 Pornography and Related Offenses Section 573.507 August 28, 2002

4. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, any city not within a county and any county may prohibit within such city or county any live public nudity within ten feet of any person observing such nudity.

(I suppose one could make the Argument that the State is saying it is perfectly OK for anyone to be nude as long as they are not within 10 feet of someone who might happen to see you)

Hello,

I was wondering which public beach you recommend? I understand that there are two at Smithville. I have read of some topless activity without problems at one of them.

Thank you