Small Towns, Wisconsin Southwest Region Summer 2014 | Page 14

Mazo Beach Skinny Dipping at I’d never been naked in public... until now. Mazo Beach is technically clothing optional, meaning that you’re free to dress or undress to your level of comfort, though most visitors choose to be nude. I wanted the full experience, so as soon as we found a spot I stripped down (and sprayed on plenty of sunscreen!). It felt weird to be undressing out in the open, but once you’re naked it feels totally natural; most of the other people there are naked as well. The beach attracts people of all ages and body types, so it doesn’t matter if you’re a bit out of shape. We went in early July and the water felt very nice, cool but not freezing. There’s definitely a bit of a current and children probably shouldn’t get too far from the beach even with supervision. However, the current lightens up close to shore (and there’s a section that’s protected by a sandbar). Drying off in the sun afterward is so much better without a wet swimsuit clinging to you! We’re told that there’s usually a volleyball game going on, but we went in the morning before it got crowded and most people were just sunbathing or walking their dogs. The beach is a little bit of a pain to get to – it’s about a 1.2 mile walk from the parking lot, although there’s a small handicap lot right off the beach (which requires a permit). As a result, most people seem to either bike or canoe in. Mosquito repellant is highly recommended for the walk in! Mazo Beach is open from 6am to 8pm, Saturdays and Sundays only, March 1 through Sept 15. p.14 Small Towns, Wisconsin | 2014 Southwest Summer Edition | www.smalltownswisconsin.com | e. [email protected]