“The good old summertime is almost over”

A history of nudism in Tennessee part 3: The naturists

Cherokee Lodge in 2012. Photo courtesy of author.

Many of the nudist clubs in the United States began by spinning off from established clubs.  It’s not uncommon for nudists to become dissatisfied with a club for various reasons, such as disagreements with leadership, lack of opportunities for involvement, or simply feeling like they don’t fit in.  When this happens, some members may start a new club that better aligns with their philosophies.  While this can be a challenging process, it can also lead to the creation of a new and vibrant community.  In 1992, several members of Crossville’s Timberline Lodge decided the time was right to start their own club, one that was more closely aligned with the values and philosophies of free beach activist Lee Baxandall and The Naturist Society.

The birth of Cherokee Lodge

Tennessee’s Cherokee Lodge and Resort was formed when a handful of members affiliated with Timberline became dissatisfied with the club and decided the time had come to break awa…