Forest Hills Club

Are you seeking a truly unique and relaxing getaway right here in Michigan? Look no further than Forest Hills Club in Saranac, a long-standing and highly cherished clothing-optional campground and resort. Nestled on 45 wooded acres in beautiful central Michigan, Forest Hills Club has been providing a serene and welcoming environment since 1957. It stands as Michigan's oldest continuously operating naturist resort, chartered by the American Sunbathing Association (now the American Association for Nude Recreation, AANR). This isn't just a place to camp; it's a vibrant, member-owned community where visitors can embrace freedom, build connections, and truly unwind amidst nature.

Forest Hills Club is celebrated by its visitors for its exceptional atmosphere and facilities. Real customer reviews consistently highlight the welcoming nature of the staff, members, and other guests. One happy visitor enthusiastically stated, "Great place to be free! The staff, members and other visitors were very nice and welcoming. The pool and hiking trail were very nice with other activities that can keep you busy. Also very relaxing and will definitely be coming back again." Another repeat guest affirmed, "I've been there 3 times now, had a great time every time! Everybody is so friendly and easy going, I just loved it there!" These sentiments perfectly capture the essence of Forest Hills Club: a place of genuine warmth, relaxation, and camaraderie, making it a perfect retreat for Michiganders seeking a different kind of escape.

Whether you're new to the clothing-optional lifestyle or a seasoned naturist, Forest Hills Club offers a comfortable and respectful environment for individuals, couples, and families. The club is dedicated to providing a space where guests can enjoy the natural world, participate in a variety of activities, and connect with like-minded people. Its commitment to a friendly, easygoing, and clean environment ensures that every visit is a memorable one. Come discover why so many Michiganders consider Forest Hills Club their preferred destination for relaxation and freedom.

Location and Accessibility

Forest Hills Club is conveniently located at 9355 Riverside Dr, Saranac, MI 48881, USA, placing it in the heart of beautiful central Michigan. This accessible location makes it a practical choice for residents across the state, offering a peaceful rural setting without being too far from larger urban centers. Saranac itself is a charming village, providing a quiet backdrop for the club.

For those traveling from the west, the club is easily reached by taking I-96 to exit 59. From there, head north for half a mile to Grand River Avenue, then east for 1.5 miles to Morrison Lake Road. Turn north (left) on Morrison Lake Road for 3 miles to Summit Street (which becomes Riverside Drive at the city limits). Continue west on Summit Street/Riverside Drive for 2.5 miles until you see the Forest Hills Club sign on your left.

If you're coming from the east, take I-96 to exit 64. Drive north for half a mile to Grand River Avenue, then west for 4 miles to Morrison Lake Road. Head north for 3 miles to Summit Street, then west on Summit Street/Riverside Drive for 2.5 miles to the Forest Hills Club sign.

The club's location offers the best of both worlds: a tranquil, wooded environment for privacy and relaxation, yet within a reasonable driving distance of larger Michigan cities like Grand Rapids (approximately 22 miles away). This means you can easily access any necessities or additional attractions in nearby towns while enjoying the secluded atmosphere of the club. The well-maintained grounds and clear directions ensure a smooth journey to your relaxing getaway in Saranac.

Services Offered

• Camping and RV Sites: Forest Hills Club offers a variety of camping options to suit different preferences. They provide sites for RVs, travel trailers, and tent campers, with many sites offering electric and water hookups. Available hookups include 20, 30, and 50 amp service, ensuring comfort for various RV setups. There's also an RV dump station available on-site for convenience.

• Cabin Rentals: For those seeking a more permanent or comfortable lodging experience, the club offers rustic cabin rentals. These provide a cozy alternative to traditional camping, allowing visitors to enjoy the club's amenities with the comforts of a small dwelling.

• Heated Saltwater Pool and Hot Tub: A significant highlight is the heated saltwater pool, perfect for swimming and relaxation, along with a hot tub for unwinding. These facilities are well-maintained and offer a refreshing experience for guests. Guests are reminded to shower thoroughly before entering the pool or hot tub.

• Hiking Trails: Embracing its natural surroundings, Forest Hills Club features nice hiking trails across its 45 wooded acres. These trails provide opportunities for nature watching, peaceful strolls, and enjoying the tranquility of the Michigan outdoors.

• Clubhouse and Lounge: The clubhouse serves as a central hub for social activities. It includes a TV lounge and is often the venue for pot-luck dinners, dances, and other community gatherings. The clubhouse and all out-buildings are smoke-free environments.

• Recreational Activities: Beyond the pool and hiking, the club offers a range of activities to keep visitors engaged. These include horseshoes, shuffleboard, volleyball, and a playground for younger guests. There's also a pool table for indoor entertainment. Regular activities are organized during the summer months, contributing to a vibrant community atmosphere.

• Weekend Restaurant/Concessions: During peak season, the club often has a weekend restaurant or concessions available, providing convenient dining options for guests. This may include items like ice, propane, small waters, soda, and ice cream.

• Laundry Facilities and Restrooms/Showers: For convenience, the club provides on-site laundry facilities, as well as clean restrooms and hot showers. These amenities ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors.

• Member-Owned and Visitor Welcome: Forest Hills Club is a cooperatively owned club, fostering a strong sense of community among its members. Importantly, it is also open and welcoming to daily visitors, couples, and singles, ensuring everyone can experience its unique environment. They are an AANR certified facility, adhering to established naturist guidelines.

Features / Highlights

• Clothing-Optional Environment: As Michigan's oldest continuously operating clothing-optional resort since 1957, Forest Hills Club provides a unique and liberating experience. This is a primary draw for many visitors, allowing for a deep sense of freedom and body acceptance in a respectful and family-friendly setting. The club emphasizes a non-sexual, comfortable atmosphere for social nudism.

• Friendly and Welcoming Community: Consistently highlighted in guest reviews, the club is renowned for its incredibly friendly and easygoing atmosphere. Visitors repeatedly praise the welcoming nature of the staff, members, and other guests, making it easy for newcomers to feel comfortable and integrated into the community.

• Extensive Recreational Facilities: Forest Hills Club boasts a wide array of amenities designed for active and relaxing pursuits. The heated saltwater pool and hot tub are significant attractions, complemented by well-maintained hiking trails, volleyball courts, horseshoes, shuffleboard, and a playground. This variety ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy, whether seeking active engagement or peaceful contemplation.

• Beautiful 45-Acre Wooded Property: The campground is set within 45 acres of beautiful, wooded land in central Michigan. This natural setting provides ample shade, privacy, and opportunities for nature observation, contributing to a truly relaxing and immersive outdoor experience.

• Cleanliness and Maintenance: Reviewers often commend the cleanliness of the facilities, noting it as one of the cleanest nudist resorts they've experienced. This dedication to upkeep enhances the overall comfort and enjoyment of all guests.

• Family-Friendly Orientation: Despite its clothing-optional nature, Forest Hills Club is explicitly family-friendly. It's a place where families can enjoy activities together and create lasting memories in a respectful and supervised environment. Policies are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

• Organized Events and Entertainment: The club regularly hosts a calendar of events, especially during the warmer months. These can include live music, pot-luck dinners, dances, and themed celebrations like Memorial Day Weekend and Halloween themed trailer crawls. These events foster community spirit and provide additional entertainment options for guests.

• Cooperative Ownership: As a cooperatively owned club, Forest Hills Club cultivates a strong sense of pride and shared responsibility among its members. This often translates into a more attentive and caring environment for all who visit.

Promotions or Special Offers

Forest Hills Club frequently offers a variety of promotions and special rates to make visits more accessible and rewarding for both members and first-time guests. It's always best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current and comprehensive information, as offers can be seasonal or event-specific.

Some notable offers and discounts that have been available include:

• Passport America® Members' Rate: Forest Hills Club is a participant in the Passport America program, offering a discounted rate for Passport America members on RV camping. This discount is typically valid for 5 nights per season.

• First-Time Visitor Discount: New visitors are often welcomed with a special incentive. For example, they may receive a 50% off coupon for a daily member fee to be used on a subsequent visit. It's important to ask for this coupon when checking in on your first visit.

• Referral Program: If you refer friends who are first-time visitors to the club, and you all register together, both you and your friends may receive a 50% discount on your daily membership fee for that visit.

• First Responders, Veterans, and Active Duty Military Discount: To show appreciation for their service, firefighters, law enforcement personnel, EMTs/paramedics, veterans, and active duty military personnel may receive a 10% discount on daily member, camping, and cabin rental fees. Valid ID is required to claim this discount.

• Prepaid Punch Card: Guests can purchase a punch card for multiple visits at a discounted rate, offering a percentage off the daily member fee. These cards typically provide convenience and savings for frequent visitors.

• Frequent Visitor Program (FVP): The club may offer an FVP card where, after paying the standard daily member fee for a certain number of visits in the current season, guests can receive a significant discount, such as 50% off, on a subsequent visit.

• AANR/TNS Member Discounts: Members of the American Association for Nude Recreation (AANR) or The Naturist Society (TNS) may receive a discount, such as 10% off daily member, camping, and cabin rental fees (excluding Passport America, which is already discounted).

• Off-Season Discounts: During the off-season, specific daily member fees might be discounted, particularly during certain days of the week.

It is highly recommended to check the "Camping/Daily Fees" section of the Forest Hills Club website or call them directly at (616) 642-9526 for the most current and detailed information on available promotions, as these can change seasonally or for special events.

Contact Information

Ready to plan your visit or have more questions about Forest Hills Club? You can reach them using the following contact details:

Address: 9355 Riverside Dr, Saranac, MI 48881, USA

Phone: (616) 642-9526

Mobile Phone: +1 616-642-9526

For additional information, including their event calendar, detailed rates, and direct contact forms, please visit their official website:

www.foresthillsclub.com.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For Michiganders, Forest Hills Club offers a distinct and highly suitable option for a local getaway, providing much more than a typical campground experience. Its central Michigan location in Saranac makes it easily accessible from various parts of the state, ensuring that a serene escape is never too far away. This convenience means less time traveling and more time enjoying the numerous amenities and the welcoming atmosphere.

What truly sets Forest Hills Club apart for local users is its unique identity as a family-friendly, clothing-optional resort. This offers a liberating experience for those seeking to embrace naturism in a safe, respectful, and communal setting. For Michigan residents curious about the lifestyle or those already part of the naturist community, it provides a trusted and long-established venue right in their home state. The emphasis on a friendly, easygoing community, as consistently praised by visitors, creates an environment where everyone feels comfortable and accepted.

The wide array of facilities and activities, including a heated saltwater pool, hot tub, hiking trails, and various sports courts, ensures that there’s always something to do, catering to both active and relaxation-seeking individuals. The regular organized events, from live music to themed celebrations, foster a vibrant social scene, allowing locals to connect with like-minded individuals and build lasting friendships.

Furthermore, as a cooperatively owned club, there's a strong sense of care and community that permeates the grounds. This translates into well-maintained facilities and a genuinely warm reception for all guests, whether they are daily visitors or members. For Michiganders looking to escape the everyday, explore a unique lifestyle, or simply find a friendly and relaxing spot close to home, Forest Hills Club in Saranac stands out as an exceptional choice, promising a refreshing and memorable experience. It's a true Michigan gem, offering a different kind of freedom and connection right in your backyard.