By this point I had been building up a variety of naturist experiences; however, this was my first solo trip to an American Naturist camp. Prior to returning to America, I wrote to about a dozen camps in the areas I was about to visit. The replies from the Southern California area were very disappointing. Almost uniformly, they refused to accept singles. One (Elysium Fields) did not even bother to reply to my inquiry (even given money for return postage!). But I called them from the area after my arrival, and they would accept singles. Regrettably, only on certain days, and my schedule did not allow a visit. Even the other camp in the Pennsylvania area (Broken Arrow) I wrote was iffy on singles. So, I was not sure how warm my reception would be at White Thorn.
Well, I had made reservations, and paid my deposit. I rented a car and drove on down. The camp was more open-air that Tri-State, but had lots of area for a variety of sports and activities.
They had several small duplex cottages (each half with one-room), where I stayed for the night. They had a pool, a gazebo-covered hot tub, volleyball and tennis courts, and other facilities. They had a club house, and a restaurant, which served meals while I was there.
The activity I remember the best was the bingo night. OK, so I am not a bingo fan, but it was free, so I thought why not? I had made the acquaintance of my 'neighbors' and we played bingo together. I was surprised to not only win twice (big bags of groceries, which I took home for my Mom, as it would be to expensive to ship them home), but also to win a prize in a drawing where everyone won something! Of course, the thunder and lightning striking within 100 meters of us made it even more exciting.
As for the people, I found everyone friendly, intelligent and all round nice. I chatted with many people, and even interviewed one of the members (more info to be added at a later date???). They even had a thinkers' discussion group!
One more thing; volleyball seems to be big in the naturist world, and it is very big at White Thorn. They are the hosts for an annual super volleyball tournament. See their home page for more information. (But please be sure to come back here.)
Lastly, on a recommendation level, I give it high marks in all categories. It's not overly commercial, and it is reasonably priced. White Thorn is great if you are looking for: - a budget vacation for your family,
- a variety of sports options and
- friendly people
and don't need: - boutiques,
- massages and
- cocktail lounges.
You can visit the White Thorn home page here. (But please be sure to come back here.)
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