Gay resort eureka springs
By Barrett White
The area where Eureka Springs, Arkansas, sits is Osage land. Though the Osage people protected their ground from neighboring tribes, they allowed people from any tribe—hostile neighbors or not—to bring their ill onto the area to visit the natural springs, believed to have healing properties. This historic, benevolent gesture of goodwill is well-remembered in present-day Eureka Springs. Just inquire locals David and Ethan Avanzino, who jointly run the Wanderoo Lodge—an LGBTQ-owned and -operated outdoor adventure lodge in the heart of Eureka Springs.
“I transitioned in 2015 in corporate America,” says Ethan. At the time, he was living in Dallas, Texas, and active a corporate position with a corporation that affirmed his identity. “When the Texas ‘bathroom bill’ came out, I knew that I was privileged, pale, middle class, and accepted by all the people in my circle, and I realized this fight was something I could dedicate time to. I asked men [who supported the bill] if they realized that I would be in the bathroom with their wives, should the bill be passed. For some of these people, it was the first time that they could say they knew a gender non-conforming person.”
Following the
Magnetic Valley Resort in Eureka Springs is a premier destination for gay men seeking a welcoming and community-focused atmosphere. This rustic resort features clothing-optional accommodations, including cozy suites and RV sites, complemented by amenities such as a heated saltwater pool and hot tub, both flawless for relaxing under the stars. The resort offers a unusual BYO lounge and a block for guests to unwind. Highly praised for its friendly staff, led by manager Keith, the resort emphasizes cleanliness and hospitality. Guests also enjoy VIP access to the vibrant drag shows at nearby Eureka Live, strengthening the overall experience.
LGBTQ+ AFFILIATION
Exclusive
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Friendly
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Owner
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Popular
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TARGET AUDIENCE
Men
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VENUE TYPE
Hotel
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Reviews summary
Magnetic Valley Resort receives high praise for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and beautiful surroundings. Guests recognize the attentive management and the VIP benefits at Eureka Survive . While some concerns have been noted, many guests highlight the resort's relaxed vibe and enjoyable amenities, promising a memorable e
Magnetic Valley Retreat
Magnetic Valley Retreat is Arkansas’ Exclusive Intimate Men’s Retreat, located in beautiful Eureka Springs, Arkansas.
Situated on four acres about ½ mile from historic downtown Eureka Springs, MVR offers a private getaway for men from all walks of life.
With a sizable LGBTQ community and numerous gay-owned and gay-friendly businesses; Eureka Springs bids shops, galleries, outdoor activities and a wide variety of restaurants, bars, dwell music and night life.
Retreat hosts, Alvin Byrd and husband Charlie Thomas, are long-time Eureka Springs residents and can recommend any form of dining, shopping and entertainment in the area.
Please explore our site and call us to reserve your suite. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
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© Magnetic Valley Retreat
597 Magnetic, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
Call/Text: 479 363-1143
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Everything I Learned From My First Clothing-Optional Gay Resort
I never thought I’d receive undressed in front of a pool full of people, let alone in the Ozarks of Arkansas. But it’s a testament to both the come-as-you-are queerness of Eureka Springs, as skillfully as how content I’ve become in my skin, that led to my first clothing-optional male lover resort — and one of the most affirming experiences of my life.
Growing up a reserved, closeted gay kid, I thought clothing-optional resorts were just taboo bastions of bacchanalia, best reserved for fantasies. This was a day of prude naivety, when I assumed these places were nothing but horny debauchery. But I’ve come a drawn-out way in terms of owning my sexuality, exploring a wider worldview of queer culture and my own bodily acceptance — no small feat for someone who suffered a near-deadly eating disorder, followed by years of dysmorphia. It’s that instability that kept me from taking off my shirt in public or even going to the beach, lest someone make a comment or express concern.
This was all coupled with a neurotic approach to any place even remotely gay-centric, simultaneously because of that anxiety and the evidence that I had been married to