Is Public Nudity Legal in West Virginia?
ToleratedRestricted: private venues and exceptions only· Checked by Reto Pascal Wyss
No, West Virginia makes it a crime to intentionally expose your sex organs or anus when you know the conduct is likely to cause affront or alarm. No sexual intent is needed for the basic offence, but exposure for sexual gratification is punished more heavily.[1]
Main provision: W. Va. Code § 61-8-9 (indecent exposure)
Designated nude beaches or tolerance?
No officially designated clothing-optional beach or public area is documented in the sources we found.
Private naturist clubs and resorts
AANR's club locator lists West Virginia among the states it covers for member clubs.[2]
Penalties
A misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $250, or both. Exposure for sexual gratification carries up to 12 months and $500, rising to a felony of 1 to 5 years and up to $3,000 on a third offence.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is public nudity legal in West Virginia?
No, West Virginia makes it a crime to intentionally expose your sex organs or anus when you know the conduct is likely to cause affront or alarm. No sexual intent is needed for the basic offence, but exposure for sexual gratification is punished more heavily.
Are there official nude beaches in West Virginia?
No officially designated clothing-optional beach or public area is documented in the sources we found.
Is nudity allowed at private naturist clubs in West Virginia?
AANR's club locator lists West Virginia among the states it covers for member clubs.
What is the penalty for public nudity in West Virginia?
A misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $250, or both. Exposure for sexual gratification carries up to 12 months and $500, rising to a felony of 1 to 5 years and up to $3,000 on a third offence.
Sources
- W. Va. Code § 61-8-9 (2025, Justia) (statute)
- AANR Nudist Club Locator (federation)
This page summarises the law for travellers and is not legal advice. Laws, local bylaws and enforcement change; follow local signs and check the sources below. Last checked 31 October 2026.