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, 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.
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 21 to over 80. They cover all shapes,
interests and occupations.
How many members do you have?
As of the end of 2006, about 150 Fulltime Members.
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, and midnight swims.
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, two bathhouses, an electric sauna, a
wood-burning sauna, a clubhouse with a full kitchen, two petanque courts &
Pavillion, two volleyball courts, a shuffleboard court, a horseshoe court, a
large open area for sunning and over 70 campsites. A commercial ice maker and
Internet access was added in 2007. Firewood and ice located near the clubhouse
are available free of charge to guests and members.
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 visit to Oakwood.
Do you have any overnight facilities available?
Yes. We have one trailer available that sleeps four people. It is scheduled
on a first come first served basis. Otherwise you must bring your own tent or
trailer.
What are the Dues and Fees?
Dues and Fees vary with type of membership and the month of joining. Please
discuss this with your host at the time you visit. We will publish these soon in
2007.
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. A host will
meet you, probably off grounds, and escort you to the club. Once at the club,
you will be given a tour of the grounds and facilities. The host will also
explain how we operate, introduce you to members to make you feel welcom 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. You have to make a reservation with your host at the time you arrange
your visit. You will be charged a camping fee. Checkout time is 11:00 am the
next day.
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.