Historic Rock River Gay Beach Land Purchase!

THANK YOU AND CONGRATULATIONS! 

On Tuesday, November 20, 2018, Rock River Preservation signed closing documents that placed 21 acres along Rock River under the ownership of RRP, the nonprofit organization formed thirteen years ago by gay men who dreamed this goal might someday be achieved!

This historic transaction was made possible by generous donations from gay men across the country and Canada, some of whom have been gathering on this land for decades, some of whom made their way there for the first time this summer. As we approach the fiftieth anniversary of Stonewall in 2019, this purchase takes on added significance, reminding us that Rock River is a national gay landmark that provided (and continues to provide) a safe haven for gay men in challenging times.

“This is a momentous occasion,” RRP Board Chair Thom Chiofalo wrote to donors in anticipation of the closing, “because this will ensure that the land will remain as it has been in the past: natural and undeveloped. The Rock River experience will be as you have always known it to be: a space where men gather and commune with other men and nature. The fear that someone will buy the land and restrict its use and access is now a thing of the past.”

Two hundred individuals and couples from at least 15 states, the District of Columbia and Canada made this possible, a testimony to how deep and widespread the love of this special place is. Donors hail from all six of the New England states, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, D.C., Michigan, Texas, California, Alaska and Ottawa.

The purchase and fundraising were completed by volunteers. While every effort was made to “do it right,” some mistakes were likely made, including possibly not recognizing and thanking every individual. If you haven’t heard directly from a member of the volunteer fund raising committee or the RRP board, please know that however you’ve contributed this summer and over the years has helped make a difference at Rock River. Thank you to all!

The Newfane area of Southern Vermont is Home to the Gay Beach and Nude Swimming Hole on the Rock River

Frog Meadow is 4 miles from the Rock River trail head. On a busy summer weekend day parking can be limited.

The West River is a relatively long, wide and warm river as compared to the Rock River, which, true to its name, is very rocky, swift and cool. Just upstream from the confluence of the Rock and West Rivers, and only four miles from Frog Meadow off Route 30, there are a series of deep, clear water swimming holes. Known as “Indian Love Call” by the locals there is a long tradition of nude bathing on the Rock River as there is in Vermont in general.

As you hike further up the Rock River you will notice that the first swimming hole is deep with a sandy beach and a rope swing. This is the “family” swimming hole where the clothing stays on. The further upstream you go the more likely you are to see nude bathers; the next couple of beaches up the trail are mixed, gay and straight, and nude.

As you continue further up the Rock River it becomes increasingly gay until you reach your final destination (about a 30-minute hike from the road) and discover the “official” gay area. While the wooded areas are very cruisy and do have their share of activities, the scene by the water is very social and quite friendly (e.g. no “attitude”). Men often bring preparations with them for a summer BBQ and, generally speaking, all are welcome, especially if you have things to share. There is a feeling of being in another time and place when you’re there.

 

About Us

Frog Meadow Farm Bed & Breakfast and Massage Oasis for Men is a welcoming, non-judgmental place for men of all colors and backgrounds to unwind and shed the trappings of busy modern life.

Situated on 63 beautiful & private acres, Frog Meadow frequently hosts men’s gatherings, workshops and retreats. Hosts Dave & Scott are committed to providing a welcoming environment to re-connect with nature and yourself.

Frog Meadow is only 4 miles from the popular Rock River swimming hole, 10 miles from Brattleboro, VT and 30 minutes Mount Snow & Stratton Mountain ski resorts.

Relax in our spring-fed swimming pond, soak in our wood-fired hot tub, or enjoy our 4-season recreation trails and extensive perennial gardens and orchard!

Be sure to check out our special events calendar, photo galleries, rooms/lodging pages & lodging specials and discover all that gay-friendly Southern Vermont has to offer!

Click here to learn why Edge Boston calls Frog Meadow “Vermont’s Gay Oasis”