The Fascinating History of Oakdale Guest Ranch

The Fascinating History of Oakdale Guest Ranch

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Founding of Oakdale Guest Ranch
3. The Amenities at Oakdale Guest Ranch
4. Oakdale Guest Ranch's Influence in the Nudist Movement
5. The Creation of Oakdale Ranch School
6. New Management and Controversial Changes
7. The Miss Nude Universe Pageant
8. Decline and Disarray at Oakdale Guest Ranch
9. The Naturist Education Foundation
10. The Legacy of Oakdale Guest Ranch
11. The Successor: Treehouse Fun Ranch

The History of Oakdale Guest Ranch: Challenging Societal Norms in Nudism

In the early 1930s, a fascinating movement called nudism began to gain traction in America. One couple, Rey and Helen Berry, were enthralled by this lifestyle and decided to establish a nudist group called the San Bernardino Sunshine League. However, it wasn't until 1933 that they found a suitable location for their vision—a goat farm in the California high desert. This property, later renamed Oakdale Guest Ranch, would become a groundbreaking nudist resort that challenged societal norms.

The Founding of Oakdale Guest Ranch

Oakdale Guest Ranch opened its doors in April 1933, situated near Hesperia in the California high desert. However, due to its remote location, the resort quickly relocated to Devore the following year. At its new site, Oakdale attracted around a hundred members, offering them the chance to escape the constraints of city life and embrace a more natural way of living. Over time, the ranch would undergo various changes and experience both triumphs and setbacks.

The Amenities at Oakdale Guest Ranch

Spanning 13 acres, Oakdale Guest Ranch boasted an array of amenities designed to enhance the nudist experience. The centerpiece of the resort was the Barthel pool, named after Kurt Barthel, who played a pivotal role in introducing nudism to America. This crystal clear pool featured a recirculating filter system, underwater lights, and a diving board. Guests could also enjoy activities such as volleyball, shuffleboard, tennis, archery, and more. The ranch's dining facilities, including the famous nude stand, provided delicious menu items for members and guests.

Oakdale Guest Ranch's Influence in the Nudist Movement

Throughout the years, Oakdale Guest Ranch played a significant role in the development and popularization of nudism in America. The resort hosted the first nudist convention in 1953, gaining national prominence. It even went beyond traditional nudist activities by becoming one of the first clubs to stage a production of the play "Barely Proper" in 1931. Oakdale Guest Ranch also took a step further in promoting nudism by establishing Oakdale Ranch School, a private boarding school with a fully accredited curriculum.

New Management and Controversial Changes

In 1957, new management led by Mel and Ann Hawker took the reins at Oakdale Guest Ranch. They aimed to attract a younger crowd and initiated changes that included allowing dancing and bringing your own beer, which stirred controversy within the nudist community. While these changes brought in a different audience, they also alienated some longtime members who valued the ethical and philosophical aspects of nudism. Oakdale Guest Ranch became an adult-only Camp, leading to the departure of some members.

The Miss Nude Universe Pageant

In 1965, Mel Hawker introduced the Miss Nude Universe pageant as an attempt to Revive interest in Oakdale Guest Ranch. The pageant garnered Attention and even attracted photographers from Playboy magazine. Despite the initial excitement, it failed to bring in new members and ultimately did not save the declining resort. Oakdale Guest Ranch struggled to maintain memberships and began to fall into disarray, with the grounds becoming neglected and the park losing its vibrancy.

The Naturist Education Foundation

The Naturist Education Foundation (NEF) is an organization dedicated to education and advocacy within the naturist community. They provided valuable information for this video and Continue to be an essential resource. Supporting the NEF through donations helps promote understanding and appreciation for naturism.

The Legacy of Oakdale Guest Ranch

While Oakdale Guest Ranch may no longer be a thriving nudist resort, its history and contributions to the nudist movement cannot be overlooked. The resort challenged societal norms and provided a safe space for individuals to embrace nudity as a natural way of living. Oakdale's legacy lives on in the memories of those who experienced its unique atmosphere and in the evolution of the nudist community.

The Successor: Treehouse Fun Ranch

Following the decline of Oakdale Guest Ranch, a new nudist resort called Treehouse Fun Ranch emerged as its successor. Stay tuned for our next video, where we will Delve into the history of this fascinating resort and its impact on the naturist community.