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Saint Joseph County, Indiana

Sunny Haven Recreation Park

Sunny Haven Recreation Park sits on 40 acres of rolling wooded land in northern Indiana, about 10 minutes outside South Bend.

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About this place

Sunny Haven Recreation Park sits on 40 acres of rolling wooded land in northern Indiana, about 10 minutes outside South Bend. It's been a family-oriented naturist club since 1968, so you're not walking into something new or experimental. The grounds include a heated pool, hot tub, sauna, and a small pond for swimming when the weather cooperates. There's a clubhouse with a kitchen, a volleyball court, and plenty of open lawn space mixed with shaded areas under mature trees. This is a membership club, not a drop-in resort. You'll need to contact them ahead of time to arrange a visit or tour. They allow camping with RV hookups and tent sites, plus a few rental cabins if you want a roof over your head. Weekends during summer see the most activity, with potlucks and casual social events. Off-season and weekdays can be quiet. The vibe here is Midwest low-key. People come to relax, not perform. Expect families, retirees, and couples who've been visiting for years. If you're anxious about your first time, this kind of place makes it easier because nobody's watching you. They're too busy reading, swimming, or tending the grill. Just show up, follow the rules, and you'll blend in within an hour.

Etiquette & ground rules

Carry a towel everywhere and sit on it. Pool, hot tub, chairs, benches—always use your towel as a barrier. No phones or cameras outside designated areas, and ask before taking any photos even where allowed. Kids are welcome, so keep behavior family-appropriate at all times. Nudity is required in pools and hot tubs, optional elsewhere depending on weather and activity. If you're new, introduce yourself to the office or a board member when you arrive. They're used to first-timers and will help you get oriented. Respect posted quiet hours if you're camping overnight.

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