California nudist resort residents say they’re being forced to wear clothes — or forced out

A group of current and former residents of a Southern California nudist resort are suing the new owners, alleging they are being forced to wear clothes, threatened with eviction, and enduring unsafe living conditions.

The lawsuit, filed by tenants of Olive Dell Ranch in Colton, claims the new management has neglected the property and is actively trying to remove longtime residents — many of whom are elderly, disabled, or veterans with nowhere else to go.

“We’re just trying to survive,” said Nancy Roeder, a resident of more than a decade. “We’re in survival mode at this point.”

Residents say problems began shortly after the property changed ownership. Notices appeared in mailboxes informing tenants that clothing would be required within the park “at all times.”

Kenny Palmer, who has lived at the ranch for 12 years, said the changes appeared to be aimed at driving people out.

Among the allegations: inflated utility bills, threats of eviction, and the removal of electric meters from mobile homes — leaving behind live wires and cutting off power.

Tenants told KTLA that amenities covered by their annual membership fees have been eliminated, and the property has fallen into disrepair. The pool has turned green, the laundry room was boarded up, the sauna disabled, and hot water shut off in community areas.

Sunshine Lorick, a former front office employee, said she was fired after questioning management’s practices.

“She wanted me to charge extra money on people’s bills, and I refused,” Lorick said.

KTLA made multiple attempts to contact the new owners and their attorney but received no response. Property manager Darlene, however, accused residents of vandalism and failing to pay rent or utility bills. Tenants dispute those claims, saying they have been sending payments via certified mail.

“I’m going to stay here till the very end,” Roeder said. “I’m scared. I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

Olive Dell Ranch, nestled in the foothills of the San Jacinto Mountains, has been a destination for naturists since 1952. It was once known as the “friendliest nudist resort in Southern California.”