Location
United States
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Mixed
Best season
July to August
About Bare Ass Beach (Green River)
Bare Ass Beach, also written Bareass Beach, is a local nickname for a small swimming spot on the Green River in western Massachusetts, just over the Greenfield town line in Colrain, a few miles upstream of the town-run Green River Swimming and Recreation Area. It is an informal spot rather than a beach in the usual sense: a short strip of sand on the bank, a shallow riverbed of mixed stones and pebbles, and a second sandy patch on the far bank reached by wading. Regulars have built stone seats, walkways and balanced rock sculptures. The water is clear, cool and mostly shallow, from calf to above knee depth in the ford, with a still pool behind the beach holding small fish and frogs. It is secluded in woodland and draws skinny-dippers and nude sunbathers, which gave it its name, along with clothed locals cooling off. Users are generally described as respectful and the site as clean. There are no facilities of any kind and much of the surrounding land is private.
Getting there
Drive north from Greenfield on Green River Road towards Colrain; the spot is reached from informal roadside pull-offs a short way past the town line. Parking is free but limited to a few cars; do not block the road or driveways. A short, steep, narrow trail drops from the road to the river and can be muddy after rain. No public transport. Not wheelchair accessible.
What visitors say
A 2017 local newspaper column and visitor listings describe a peaceful, out-of-the-way swimming hole with a small, respectful mix of locals and skinny-dippers, and little litter. Visitors recommend water shoes for the stony riverbed, going on warm weekdays to avoid crowds, and avoiding a swim after heavy rain.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
There is no designation of any kind. Massachusetts law on open and gross lewdness can be applied to public nudity, and much of the adjacent land is private, so trespass is also a risk. No reports of enforcement at this spot were found as of 2026.
Naturism at Bare Ass Beach (Green River) sits under United States's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United States public nudity guide.
Researched 24 October 2026. No official source confirms naturist status, so treat it as unverified.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 42.6511, -72.6226
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United States
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Bare Ass Beach?
On the Green River just over the Greenfield line in Colrain, Massachusetts, off Green River Road. It is not in Great Barrington.
Is nudity allowed?
Not officially; it is an informal skinny-dipping spot. Be discreet and respectful of neighbours.
Are there toilets or parking?
No facilities. Parking is a few informal roadside spaces.
Is the water deep?
Mostly shallow, knee-deep or less in places, with deeper pockets; levels rise after rain.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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