HOME FAQ CALENDAR NEWS MEMBERS

Code of Ethics

The members of Capital Area Family Naturists ("CAFN") are dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for families and single people to engage in clothing-optional activities.

Our founding principles are that the nude body is natural and wholesome, that any body shape, color, or size is equally acceptable, and that nude bodies in the context of nudist activities should not be viewed in a sexual way. We emphasize self-acceptance, the acceptance of others on an equal basis, and the freedom to enjoy nude activities in a protected environment.

The rules of behavior at CAFN, and at most nudist clubs, are based upon courtesy and common sense. Some rules are the same as one would find at any park, campground or swimming pool; but, a few are quite different.

Basic Ethos

Our basic rule is that we do not want anyone participating in our club events to engage in behavior that would cause others to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. Such behavior could include language or actions, possession of a camera without prior permission by CAFN and all those photographed, or being too "friendly" in a way that causes others to feel defensive. We want all of our members and guests to enjoy themselves and to want to return (we are happy to report that most do.). We are particularly protective of people who are visiting our club for the first time, and we do not want a person's attitude or behavior to make our new guests' visit anything less than comfortable.

Alcohol and Drugs

While we do not forbid drinking at our events, our rule is that drunken behavior, whether as a result of intoxication or not, is not acceptable. And of course, illegal drugs are not tolerated at any CAFN event.

Sexuality

We find it regrettable that Americans tend to associate nudity with recreational sex. The uniquely American disdain for public nudity has, we believe, led to this unfortunate association. At CAFN, we reject that association and reserve our club exclusively for the wholesome enjoyment of worry-free public nudity in appropriate settings.

To that end, we do not allow jewelry or other body decoration that draws attention to the genitals or the breasts nor do we allow the display of suggestive tattoos. The same applies to clothing that is sexy, suggestive, see-through or enticing. Garments, especially those that barely cover some body parts, can be far more alluring than simple nudity.

Identification

While we recognize that there are some nudist clubs that allow visitors to attend anonymously for their first visit, our policy is that we must know people are good standing members of our society. In order to create a safe and secure environment for our members and our guests, we believe that it is necessary to have basic personal information on everyone who attends our events. You are not expected to give personal information to people you meet at our activities, but our management must have on record, at a minimum, your full name, e-mail address, street address, and telephone number.

We have worked very hard to create an environment that feels particularly safe and comfortable for families, couples, and singles, especially women. An important ingredient in providing that comfort level is the caution that we exercise about who is allowed to attend our events. If we were to accept people who think that concealing their own identity is more important than the safety concerns of our other guests, we would risk violating the trust that they have placed in us.

Safety

We ask that all CAFN members and guests be vigilant in identifying and reporting suspicious and unlawful behavior to the CAFN Board of Directors. If any member or guest is foolish enough to do anything unlawful, especially with regard to our children, we will immediately and without hesitation turn the offender's personal information over to law enforcement authorities.

Rules are a necessary and healthy supporting framework for any club or organization. We have established rules that we believe will ensure the comfort and safety of our members and guests.