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Frequently asked Questions About Nude Recreation
Why do people choose nude recreation?
Nude recreation embraces the joy of experiencing
and enjoying nature in the most natural way possible. To relax and be nude is to
let yourself be totally free. Although we enjoy clothing free activities, we
also choose to wear clothes when practical, such as on cold days or in extreme
sunshine. Nudists respect each other's individual choices. Our own self-esteem
is enhanced by our ability to accept ourselves and others as we really are. We
find it easy to accept others regardless of physical size, shape, or body
condition. Moreover, social class distinctions, often indicated by clothing,
disappear.
Relaxation, stress relief, positive body acceptance, and increasing self-esteem
are just a few of the reasons why people choose the nudist lifestyle.
Oakwood is affiliated with the national American Association for Nude Recreation
(AANR).
Is nude recreation becoming more accepted?
YES. The Roper Organization reported that some 40
million Americans have skinny-dipped in mixed company. For people who want to
retain the freedom of that experience, nudist clubs offer relaxing,
down-to-earth, casual environments.
What are the characteristics of a nudist club? Of
Oakwood ?
The atmosphere of a naturist club is wholesome and
friendly. People who enjoy nude recreation distinguish between nudity and sex
and keep the two in proper perspective. Clubs are careful about who enters their
facility and if anyone seems to be there for the wrong reason, they will be
asked to leave. Oakwood unlike other nudist campgrounds is very spacious. We
have open areas instead of the "trailer park", KOA crowded campground atmosphere
found at other clubs.
Club activities often include sports and events much like any other resort.
You'll find swimming, walking, cycling, volleyball, tennis,
shuffleboard, horseshoes, theme parties, special events, and the
opportunity to meet a wide variety of people, diverse in age, profession and
culture.
What's the difference between nudism and naturism?
Nothing. The term "nudist" was popular in the
United States, while the term "naturism" was being used in Europe. Now that the
movement is becoming worldwide, "naturism" is becoming the preferred term.
Are children welcome at clubs?
Yes. Oakwood welcomes children and encourages
families to join. Children are natural nudists and quickly take to it.
What will my first visit to a club be like?
This is a very important question that we want to
answer as fully as possible. Therefore please refer to the special collection of
FAQs about Your First Visit.
We would like to visit Oakwood. How do we go
about it?
People who are seriously interested in nudism or
who are considering joining a club such as Oakwood are offered one free visit so
they can see our facilities, meet members, learn more about how we operate and
fully experience and enjoy the club for a day. If you'd like to discover if
Oakwood or social nudism are right for you, simply email us with a request for a
Free Visit through this webpage. Our Membership phone is 651-353-1062.
AANR members may visit Oakwood at any time. Please email us for reservations and
directions, including your club name and AANR membership number.
Members of nudist clubs not affiliated with the AANR can also visit. Again email
us and tell us the name of your club.
Ground and Camping Fees vary by affiliation. Please ask the Membership Committee
person who contacts you for that information.
If we are not members of AANR or another nudist club, is there any way we can
participate in Oakwood without joining?
No. Oakwood is a private club and the one visit is your only opportunity to see
the club without joining.
Where are you located?
Oakwood is located 30 minutes north of
Minneapolis/St. Paul via freeway. The exact location of the club is not given
out until your visit is arranged. Our Members Privacy and your Privacy is
extremely important to us.
What's the best time of the week to visit Oakwood?
We prefer to schedule prospective member visits
only on weekends. This allows you to meet our members and see the club on a
normal day. However we can arrange for you to visit Oakwood just about any day
of the week. Remember, weekdays can sometimes be pretty quiet, with little
sports or social activity. If you'd like to meet a lot of members, play
volleyball, etc. you should visit on a weekend, Saturday
being the best day.
Can I check out the club without my spouse or
'significant other'?
No. If you are a couple, you must join as a couple
and both partners must visit the club together for the initial visit. Should you
decide to join, both partners must participate in the club, although you need
not always visit the club together.
My partner is reluctant to visit a nudist club. Any
advice?
It's natural to be a little nervous on your first
visit to a nudist club. However, it's important to keep in mind that what is an
exciting, perhaps anxiety producing, adventure to you is very matter-of-fact to
our members. New couples visit Oakwood nearly every week of the season, so you
won't draw any special attention. No one is ever gawked at. Oakwood members are
much more interested in meeting you and making sure you have a good time,
getting you involved in many of the on-going activities. You can consult the
AANR web site to get more information on first time experiences.
Please note, however, that you should never try to pressure your partner into
visiting a nudist club. Neither one of you will enjoy the experience and you'll
be wasting your free visit at a time when one of you isn't ready.
It's very important to us that our employers or family members not find out
about our nudist activities. How do you protect visitors or members?
First, you will never be asked to reveal your occupation to anyone. Secondly, as
a guest or member your last name and contact information is considered private
and will only be known by a few people who have to know it for record keeping,
billing, mailing, etc.
Do we have to be nude at Oakwood?
No, not on your first visit. Our philosophy is
"clothed when practical, nude when appropriate". The only place where you are
required to be nude is in the pool. You may remain clothed while touring the
club. You'll probably find yourself wanting to shed your 'second skin' sooner
rather than later, as people all around you will be nude, quite relaxed and
enjoying their day. Nude is the norm and it's more comfortable.
What are your members like?
Our adult members range in age from
2 to over 90. They cover all
shapes, sizes, interests and occupations.
How many members do you have?
We have about
150 Fulltime Members and growing.
When are you open?
Our members have access every day of the year, but
our open season, when the water is turned on, runs from April 15th until October
15th.
What kind of social activities do you have?
Social activities during the season typically
include such things as Saturday night dinners, these are special theme dinners
prepared by volunteers, dances, wine and cheese tasting parties, casino night,
Texas Holdem, darts, foosball, movie nights, bon fires,
Progressive dinners throughout the campground and much, much more...
What facilities do you have at the club?
Oakwood is very Modern nature oriented club located
in the middle of a Nature Preserve. It has a heated swimming pool
- 20' x 40' with a deep end, two bathhouses, an electric sauna, a
wood-burning sauna, a clubhouse with a full kitchen, two petanque courts &
Outdoor Pavilion, two volleyball courts, a
shuffleboard court, a horseshoe court, a large open area
larger then a football field for sunning or any
other activity you desire - soccer game anyone? We have 77
campsites complete with water, electric & sewer hookups.
We have two free commercial ice makers
and free Internet access was added in 2007. Firewood
and ice located near the clubhouse are available free of charge to guests and
members.
What additions are planned at Oakwood?
We are happy you asked. Our current clubhouse is 30 x
50 with upcoming plans to add a 40' x 40' or 50' x 50' addition complete with
air conditioning & a furnace for year around use.
Our other plan will be the addition of Tennis Courts and basketball hoops.
Our 3rd addition will be a hot tub/conversation pool & new swimming pool when
needed.
Are pets allowed at Oakwood?
Pets are allowed on a leash at their owner's
campsite only. Pets are not allowed in the commons area. Owners are responsible
for cleaning up after their pets. Pets are not allowed on the first visit.
Can I buy food or beverages on the grounds?
No. We do not have a commissary or boutique at
Oakwood. A large grocery store and several restaurants are available within two
miles. You are welcome to use our clubhouse kitchen to prepare your lunch or
meal on your visits to Oakwood. Our
refrigerators are available for your use.
Do you have any overnight facilities available?
Yes. We have two trailers
available. It is scheduled on a first come first
served basis. Otherwise you must bring your own tent, camper
or trailer.
What are the Dues and Fees?
Our fees are the lowest in the upper
Midwest and all of AANR that we are aware of. Visit our Membership page
here on our site.
Can I pay with a credit card ?
We accept cash and checks at this time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Your First Visit.
What happens after we send in our Visit Application?
A representative of the Membership Committee will call you to answer
any questions you might have and set up a time and day for your visit. Once at
the club, you will be given a tour of the grounds and facilities. The hostess
will also explain how we operate, introduce you to members to make you feel
welcome at Oakwood
and explain a few rules you should know about. After that, you're free to enjoy
yourselves for the day.
What should we bring on our first visit?
A light travel bag containing two towels per person (polite nudist
etiquette means that you always carry your own towel to sit on or lounge on and
a second one for pool and showers), sun block, any athletic equipment or shoes
you might need, toiletries, and a cover-up for chilly nights or when you've had
enough sun. You might also want to bring a blanket or chair. Bring any food or
beverages you might want for the time you're there. Alcohol is allowed in
moderation. Radios are allowed only with headphones, and cameras, including cell
phone cameras, are strictly prohibited. If you're staying overnight, bring your
camping needs.
Can our friends come with us on our first visit?
Yes. We'd love to have them visit too, but they must also go through
making contact and filling out an application, just as you have. Word of mouth
is how we grow at Oakwood. Friends are welcomed with open arms.
Can we stay overnight on our first visit?
Yes and we encourage it. Join us
in the Saturday day & night activities Oakwood has to offer.
Meet our members, make new friends and you'll want to stay permanently at
Oakwood.
What else should we know about our first visit?
As a guest of Oakwood, you are expected to abide by the same rules as
members. Should you engage in inappropriate behavior, overindulge in alcohol or
act in any disruptive or sexually explicit manner, you will be asked to leave
the grounds immediately.