Wheelchair Accessible Parks
Did you know that there are wheelchair accessible parks pretty much everywhere now? When we talk about parks you may think I’m talking about amusement parks but that is only part of what I’m talking about. Sure, amusement parks are great and have become very wheelchair accessible but there are other types of parks that you might have to take the time to explore. Outdoor camping and hiking, wonders of nature, and city parks are a great place to spend a day or even a weekend for that matter and the good news is that cities and state government are making great strides in making these places available and accessible to the disabled. Being in a wheelchair is no reason to sacrifice your quality of life, and I’m here to tell you that there is nothing standing in your way. If you have an all terrain or off road wheelchair, well then, your miles ahead of the game.
Wheelchair Accessible Amusement Parks
You really shouldn’t have any trouble with the bigger amusement parks anymore. Places like 6 flags and Disneyland have gone to great expense to make sure that they have the facilities required to keep their disabled or handicapped patrons comfortable. There is even an Amusement Park in Texas that is known for being 100% completely wheelchair-accessible. The name of the park is Morgan’s Wonderland, They have discounts for the disabled and are operating as a non-profit so it really is great fun for the whole family.
Wheelchair Accessible Campgrounds
Campgrounds are a little tougher to find but they are out there. If your planning on taking a long road trip and plan on using a campground then I urge you to call ahead and find out if they have the proper facilities. You will have more luck with the bigger campgrounds such as KOA but this doesn’t mean they are the only ones. One of the most important questions to ask will be about the showers. Being in a wheelchair you might not be able to use their existing facilities and having a shower when your on the road can truly keep you refreshed. Keep in mind your roughing it out there so don’t let this be a deciding factor. When you map out your trip you can schedule your stops based on calling ahead and finding the right places to stay. An hour or two spent on proper planning will pay off with a much more enjoyable trip. Don’t forget to ask about paved trails that are wheelchair accessible ahead of time too.
Wheelchair Accessible State Parks
When visiting state parks the same things apply as with the campgrounds. Call ahead or check the parks website, they should have wheelchair accessible trails and monuments clearly marked. Most state park visitors stay in hotels or cabins so call ahead and find out what they have available for those in wheelchairs. They may have rooms specially designed for the disabled and you can make a reservation. This ensures you’ll have the most comfortable trip possible.
As you can see there are so many possibilities available to you. Get out there and spend some time in the great outdoors, you’ll feel better because of it and the exercise you get at these wheelchair accessible parks will do you good.
