Wheelchair Accessible Parks
If you're a wheelchair user and love the great outdoors, what better way to spend an afternoon then at the park? Don't let your wheelchair hold you back! There are many parks, and likely one near you, that have wheelchair accessible features. There are 2 types of parks likely to appeal to your curiosity. The first is a traditional campground park and the second is an exciting amusement park.
If you're looking for convenient, accessible camping, request a campsite that's level and clear of rocks, with hard-packed ground so you can wheel around with ease. Some sites are even paved specifically for wheelchair accessibility. Camping spots often offer shower facilities, but wheelchair accessible roll-in units are sometimes hard to find. While it is almost certain there will be appropriate bathrooms, the wheelchair occupant may have to get creative when bathing at a campground. Inquire whether the facility's bath change house has wheelchair accessible bathrooms and showers? But remember, this is camping, and sometimes the experience is worth roughing it a little bit!
Many campgrounds have trails that are paved, well lit and with rest stop areas. These are great for wheeling along with a walking or cycling friend, while taking in the nature and fresh air. Make sure to choose hiking trails that are paved and have guardrails (whenever available). Also, be sure to ask park attendants how steep various hiking trails are? You don't want to get stuck in an unmanageable spot in the dead summer heat. At the beach, many campgrounds offer wheelchair accessible parking. Ask if wheelchairs are appropriate for the beach terrain or if the campground has an all-terrain wheelchair available to rent. Take in a campfire while lounging back in your wheelchair and watch the stars. If you'd rather lay your head down in a cabin rather than in a tent, ask grounds workers to install a temporary ramp for easier access, if there isn't already one.
If you're looking for the thrill of an amusement park, there are tips and recommendations to follow to make the most of your day. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) has demanded a greater selection of recreation and travel opportunities for wheelchair users, so more and more amusement parks are converting to full-scale accessibility. This includes the ride area that can accommodate standard size wheelchairs, with room to manoeuvre, load and unload. Be sure to observe the posted signs, guidelines and handrails for a safe and accessible amusement park experience. Consider a virtual reality experience, where your chair can be fixed for the duration of the ride, or consider transferring from your chair to roller coaster seats. There are Ferris wheels that can accommodate a wheelchair and occupant. In future, keep an eye open for newly designed rides that must provide at least one space for a wheelchair. Otherwise, just have fun and take it easy on the cotton candy!
