Frequently Asked Questions

Why do people choose nude recreation?
Nude recreation embraces the joy of living and experiencing 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 in appropriate settings, we also choose to wear clothes when practical. Nudists respect each other's individuality. Our own self-esteem is enhanced by our ability to accept ourselves 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 image, and increasing self-esteem are just a few of the reasons people choose the nudist lifestyle.

What are the benefits of nude recreation?
Self-esteem is enhanced in the nudist world, where body acceptance is the norm. Conversation seems to come easier. Many report the “time warp” phenomenon. A one day respite spent clothes-free seems to relax people more than an entire weekend elsewhere. Without clothes, stress seems to melt away.

Is nude recreation an accepted mainstream activity?
The answer to this question is a resounding YES!

As reported in USA TODAY, The Yankelovich National Travel Monitor is one of the most respected polls in the travel industry. The 2006 edition of that poll found that 15% of adult Americans would consider a resort that offers a nude recreation experience or a clothing-optional beach experience either extremely or a very desirable part of a vacation.

In the January 17, 2003 edition of The Wall St. Journal, a front page story in the Marketplace section noted that nude recreation in North America has grown to a $400 million industry. The article explained that clothes-free offerings run the gamut from upscale venues with plush townhouses and room service to rustic rural retreats, to cruises on some of the world’s most popular cruise lines.

The Roper Organization has reported that some 54 million Americans have skinny-dipped in mixed company. For people who want to recapture the freedom and innocence of that experience, Buckeye Bares offers a relaxing, down to earth, casual environment.

What are the characteristics of a Buckeye Bares event?
The atmosphere of a Buckeye Bares event is wholesome and friendly. People who enjoy nude recreation distinguish between nudity and sex and keep the two in their proper perspectives. Buckeye Bares are careful about who participates in events. and if anyone seems to be there for the wrong reason, they will be asked to leave.

What kind of people will I find at Buckeye Bares?
You’ll find a cross section of society, with people representing all colors, religions, occupations, body types, age groups, and income brackets. Without clothes, however, it’s less likely you’ll know a bank president from a bus driver.

Will I feel self-conscious?
Most first-timers adjust to social nudity in a matter of minutes and discover it’s not nearly as big a deal as they thought it would be. Some feel self-conscious before they undress since they’re likely to be the only ones not nude.

What about our kids?
Children are natural nudists and quickly take to it like ducks take to water. Buckeye Bares welcomes children and encourage families to participate in events together.

What’s the difference between clothes-free vs. clothing-optional?
There’s a relatively minor difference between these two types of events. Clothing-optional events allow participants to remain dressed, believing that some people take more time to adjust to social nudism. At clothes-free events, you’re expected to be nude, although no one expects you to disrobe until you have become comfortable and decided to stay.

Do I have to be naked all the time?
While many people prefer to go nude through out and event, you may be required to clothe in certain areas.

How will I feel if I’m not in the greatest physical shape?
You’ll feel right at home. Nudist clubs are a reflection of society at large, with people of all shapes and sizes.

Do males get visibly excited?
Not often. Nudist clubs are far less sexually charged than places where bikinis, thongs, or other provocative clothing, are worn. On the rare occasion where this occurs, simply don a towel, turn over, or take a quick dip in the pool.

What if we receive unwelcome advances?
This rarely happens. If it does, simply report it to Buckeye Bares staff and steps will be taken to ensure it does not happen again. Everyone should feel comfortable. Behavior requiring an apology is not tolerated.

How can I make my spouse / significant other more comfortable about trying it?
It helps to understand that Buckeye Bares events and activities are family-oriented places. Few people of either sex at Buckeye Bares events---or anywhere else for that matter---are “perfect 10s” or look like size-2 actresses.

Will my picture be taken or my privacy compromised?
Buckeye Bares understands that privacy is paramount to our members and their families. There is never any requirement to be publicly identified or consent to having one’s picture taken as a condition of participation. (Photo identification is required for admission to events, along with other measures to ensure guest security.) And just for your peace of mind, the tasteful images that appear on this website have been taken with the written permission of the subject(s) depicted.

In increasing numbers, however, our members are telling neighbors and friends about their favorite way to relax. They find it’s an idea that’s just too great to keep for themselves!

What will my first visit to an event be like?
Buckeye Bares exists for its members. We will do our best to make you comfortable and your diving experience enjoyable. We conduct events for you, whatever makes you the most comfortable is most likely fine with us. Your rules are our rules!