For most naturists, community is at the heart of the life they've chosen, collective experience of freedom, acceptance, and oneness without borders. But for those living in areas where naturist clubs or events are scarce, it's not always easy to locate local gatherings. That's where the new world of virtual naturist events is filling the gap.

In recent years, technology has provided new ways by which naturists can connect, socialize, and exchange experiences, all in line with naturist values. Zoom and Discord are examples of the technology that is used to a great extent as venues for naturists globally to get together. Be it a virtual happy hour, an online discussion forum, or even a virtual movie night, these gatherings provide that same feeling of membership that is associated with live events.

The AANR West club at the lead of this venture is the Rocky Mountain Naturist Club (RMNC). As they realize that their members are scattered across the state and often live quite far from one another, RMNC began to host online events in order to keep their community engaged and active all year round.

Discord has become an effective platform for reaching and connecting with young adult naturists, offering a familiar and comfortable space where open-minded discussion thrives. Unlike traditional social media, Discord allows for community-focused, private interaction, ideal for naturist clubs and organizations looking to build genuine relationships with younger members. Discord helps bridge generational gaps and create a welcoming digital gateway for the next generation of naturists.

Through their Discord server, RMNC members can join clothing-optional text chat rooms, voice and video chats, participate in virtual watch parties, attend online workshops, or simply connect with friends between physical events. These digital gatherings not only make naturism more accessible for those in isolated regions but also help new members feel comfortable joining the community for the first time.

Virtual naturist spaces also provide the potential for education and outreach. Clubs can host guest speakers from across the globe to present on such topics as naturist travel, body acceptance, and naturist history. That global exposure offers members a range of views they may never get in their local clubs.

Though nothing beats the pleasure of sun and breeze on naked skin, virtual naturism is a good second best, a space for comradeship, education, and friendship when the latter cannot be had. It's a reminder that naturism is not so much being naked; it's about bonding, being at ease, and being oneself.

As clubs such as Rocky Mountain Naturist Club keep innovating in terms of online communities, the naturist lifestyle is once again demonstrating that its sharing and creative culture has no borders, not geographic ones, anyway.