Saturday, July 14 is Bastille Day, celebrating the French Revolution. However, people around the world will be celebrating a different kind of Independence Day as it’s International Nude Day, too, which caps off International Nude Week.
The only place left to celebrate safely and legally in Southwest Ohio is Cedar Trails Nudist Retreat in Adams County. Tim, the trail manager, says the place has been bustling since Paradise Gardens on Cincinnati’s West Side closed at the end of last summer.
“Our membership is full,” he says. “We have one opening.”
For the big day Saturday, the 60-plus acre facility will have a pool party to celebrate. (Saturday also happens to be the American Association for Nude Recreation's International Skinny Dip Day.) The pool party starts at 3 p.m.
Even without the holiday of sorts, nudism is alive and well.
“We are getting more young people and more kids,” Tim says. “I think as you get older, there’s mind shift and you don’t care about wearing clothes or the current fashion trends. Body acceptance is a big thing, too. People take the attitude, ‘This is my body and I’m OK.’ ”
You don't have to be a member to enjoy the amenities at Cedar Trails, which include a pool, hot tub, bath house, hiking trails, volleyball, disc golf, petanque (like French bocce ball), on-site cafe and more. Overnight stay options range from camp sites ($21 to $25 with electricity) to cabins for up to four adults ($50-$100) and RV sites ($35).
One of the resort's frequently asked questions is, "Will I have to be nude immediately and stay nude all the time?" The answer is: No. According to the website, "At Cedar Trails, we are very good at helping new nudists and we will give you plenty of time to adjust. The wholesome, friendly atmosphere at our resort results in most visitors being nude sooner (rather) than later. You do not have to check clothes at the office. However, nudity is the norm when practicable and clothed only when necessary."
Daily visiting hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Grounds fees are $50 per family and $40 for singles (unless you're an AANR member; then it's $40 and $32, respectively). Children always stay free.
Cedar Trails Nudist Retreat is located at 11 Cow Run Road, Peebles, Ohio. More info: cedartrailsnudistretreat.com.
