History of O.M.E.N. (Oregon Men Enjoying Naturism)

The idea for a men’s naturist group in Portland, Oregon was born in the mind of Jim F. Jim, having been an avid naturist for many years and a member of GNI (Gay Naturists International), met Adam R and Joe F in 1997 at a naturist gathering. Adam and Joe were members of GNI and also avid naturists. Jim, Adam and Joe met for lunch at one of Jim’s haunts on S.E. Woodstock, one afternoon in July of 1998 to talk about the formation of a naturist group in the Portland area, based on the principals of GNI. From that discussion, Jim would plan on contacting men in the Portland area who were on the membership roll of GNI to see if there might be any interest in a local group.

A few months later on Wednesday evening November 12, 1998, a gathering of those interested was called and met at the home of John H. Those present were John H., Jim F. and Dave D. Discussion of the type of organization desired fell along the lines of a social, friendly and non-political group. The group would not be limited to GNI members but open to anyone 21 and older to enjoy: hikes, card playing, pot lucks, camp-outs, beach trips, and other activities. Many other things were discussed which would take on actual form as the group continued.

On December 13, 1998, another gathering was held to set in place the name of the group as well as adopt by-laws and schedule our first “public” gathering. Adam suggested several name possibilities which were considered and Oregon Men Enjoying Naturism (O.M.E.N.) was established. The five men present set themselves as members along with one absentee member, Michael C who was wintering in Palm Springs and then went about adopting by-laws that were adapted from the GNI by-laws. The first “public” social gathering was scheduled for January 10, 1999, 3 PM, hosted by Jim F. The rest is history as they say.

Fast forward 20 years, OMEN today is a diverse group of over 250 men from 42 States and 10 countries, with 14 languages spoken among the members, including ASL.  Our ages run from early 20’s to late 80’s, we have members from many other groups which makes us a great place for networking, and we are happy to accept new members, subject to our terms, conditions and behavioral guidelines.  Our traditional social potlucks are alive and well, but we also have many other activities: dances, movie nights, spa days, and themed parties throughout the year such as Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day and 4th of July to keep you occupied.  New recently has been the addition of multi-night camping trips during the summer months.  Information about that and a brochure to download can be found on its own page.  If this appeals to you, check out our activities tab for Event listings, or the Naked Camping tab for specific information on that program...then go to the membership tab and request an invitation.  You will always find a warm welcome from us.

Our almost weekly gatherings came to an abrupt halt in March 2020 along with the rest of the groups in the State.  We kept alive virtually via Zoom until the 4^th of July and outdoor limits were raised to 25. We then held outdoor meetings, often two back to back to accommodate more members, and organized days at Rooster Rock where attendance caps did not apply.  

That continued until the smoke cancelled our final two scheduled events for the summer.   Too cold to continue outdoors and indoors limits are ridiculous so we are now back to virtual naked connections for the time being.  But despite the pandemic our membership has continued to grow and new members are always welcome to join and attend the virtual meetings while awaiting our reemergence.