Why Volleyball Dominates at Nudist Colonies

Walk into almost any nudist resort in America, and you'll likely hear the distinctive sound of a volleyball smacking against forearms. This isn't coincidence—volleyball has reigned as the undisputed king of nudist colony sports for over 60 years.

By the 1960s, nearly every nudist club in the United States had a volleyball court, and naturist communities had been playing the game since as early as the 1920s, shortly after volleyball's invention in 1895. What started as a recreational novelty became the defining athletic activity of the naturist movement.

The Perfect Nude Sport

Volleyball's dominance isn't random—it's practically engineered for nudist living. Most naturist clubs operate on relatively small properties where space is at a premium. A volleyball court requires minimal real estate but accommodates 6-12 players at once, making it ideal for community building.

Unlike sports that demand expensive gear or protective equipment, volleyball needs just a net, a ball, and willing participants. No uniforms, no pads, no shoes—which, in a nudist colony, is rather the point. The sport also welcomes varying skill levels, from casual weekend players to serious athletes, fostering an inclusive atmosphere that aligns with naturist philosophy.

Serious Competition

What began as casual recreation evolved into organized competition. White Thorn Lodge in western Pennsylvania has hosted a major nude volleyball tournament every fall since 1971, regularly drawing over 70 teams. Modern events like the Superbowl of Naked Volleyball now attract 90+ teams annually, proving this isn't just casual backyard play—it's a legitimate competitive scene.

These tournaments create naturist gathering points, combining athletic competition with community celebration. Players travel from across the country, turning volleyball weekends into major social events on the naturist calendar.

Cultural Misconceptions

The popularity of volleyball at nudist colonies often surprises outsiders who imagine naturist life as purely contemplative or leisurely. Research shows naturists are otherwise typical members of society who simply prefer social activities—swimming, tennis, volleyball—without clothing.

The volleyball court serves as the social hub of many resorts, much like a town square. It's where newcomers meet regulars, where multi-generational games happen, and where the naturist principle of body acceptance plays out in real time. When you're diving for a ball in the sand, self-consciousness tends to evaporate quickly.

So yes, people in nudist colonies really do play volleyball more than any other sport. It's not just a stereotype—it's a well-documented tradition born from practicality, sustained by enthusiasm, and cemented by decades of summer tournaments and friendly rivalry.