Frequently Asked Questions about CMEN Gatherings

What are the CMEN Gatherings?

The CMEN Gatherings are all male, all nude gatherings held each year for gay and bi-sexual naturist men. CMEN will be hosting three gatherings this year:

  • The Southeast Spring Gathering take place at at the Whispering Oaks Retreat Center, a secluded conference center and campground located southwest of Nashville, Tennessee.
  • The Northern California Mid-Summer Gathering will take place at a 400 acre secluded retreat center on the Sierra foothills east of Auburn.
  • The West Coast Gathering will take place at a secluded conference center in the San Bernardino Mountains east of Los Angeles near Big Bear.

These gatherings typically include both weekend sessions and full week sessions. The Gatherings are similar to other conferences, one will find men in a social atmosphere participating in their choices of planned recreational activities, seminars, workshops and entertainment. Clothing is not an option, everyone is nude, unless it gets too cold at night.

The CMEN Gatherings are hosted by CMEN, a social organization for gay and bisexual men who enjoy nude social and recreational activities.

The CMEN Gatherings are similar to gatherings held by GNI each August in Pennsylvania and those held by IMEN each July in Maryland.

What kind of activities will there be?

There are a variety of activities to choose from, including swimming and having fun in the large heated swimming pool, hiking, aerobics, seminars and workshops, themed social hours, evening shows, talent shows, evening discos, bingo, country-style square dancing, massage, contests, opportunity to meet new friends, naked hugs, and much much more!

Does registration include everything?

Yes! All food and non-alcoholic beverages (you can bring your own alcoholic beverages if you wish), accommodations, seminars, workshops, playshops, events, evening shows and parties are included.

Can I come for only part of the event?

YES. If you prefer to only attend for the weekend, a weekend session is available separately as is the week session, you can also register for half of the week session. The number of men attending each gathering is limited. The specific dates are listed on the registration form. See the registration form for available periods you may attend.

Do I need to pre-register?

Yes, you must pre-register. On-site registration is Not allowed. Only those who are pre-registered will be allowed to attend. See the registration form for the registration closing date. Early registration is recommended, as past events have sold out well before the registration closing date. Note the discount offered for early registration.

Is there a minimum age to attend?

Yes, you must be male and at least 21 years old to attend CMEN Gatherings and events.

Where are the gatherings held?

Southeast Gatherings are held at the Whispering Oaks Retreat Center, a secluded conference center and campground located in a natural scenic wooded environment in Tennessee.

West Coast Gathering are held at a conference center approximately 40 miles north of Los Angeles in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains.

Will there be transportation from the Airport?

YES. For the Southeast Gatherings you may take any of our shuttle buses from Nashville to the gathering. For the West Coast Gatherings you may take any of our shuttle buses from LAX to the gathering. A schedule will be provided, see the registration form for details.

What are the sleeping accommodations?

Rustic, heated cabins with hot showers nearby are included with your registration. A limited number of upgrades to 2-person rooms at the conference centers are also available, see the registration form for details.

Is camping allowed?

Yes. If you prefer, you may bring a tent, and use the nearby hot showers. Limited RV space is also available at most gatherings, see the registration form for details.

Is there a pre-gathering session and can I help with setup?

YES, there is a pre-gathering session for those who are also willing to help with setup. Help is appreciated! The dates and nominal additional fee for the pre-gathering session are listed on the registration form. Contact the number below for additional pre-gathering information.

Can I present a seminar, workshop or an event?

Yes! Submit a proposal as to the details of what type of seminar, workshop or event you would like to present. Attendees are welcome to share their skills and experience by presenting a workshop or activity. Please submit proposals early to ensure they are included in the gathering program booklet.

How is the cost kept so low?

The CMEN Gatherings are planned and produced by an all volunteer committee. Volunteers also present the seminars and workshops, aerobics, massage, contests, game shows, and talent shows. The Gatherings are a community of volunteers, others take turns working in registration, leading hikes, setting up chairs, serving ice cream, and other activities.

This volunteer community reduces the price everyone pays to attend the CMEN Gatherings. As the Gatherings are a community of volunteers, all men attending the gathering are expected to participate.

Are scholarships available?

YES, partial “scholarships” are available to the extent that money is available in the “scholarship fund.” You are urged to donate to the scholarship fund and help others. Special thanks to all who contribute and ensure a diverse group of men at the gathering.

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