Camping is a great way to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether the preference is a tent or a luxurious cabin, everyone should be able to enjoy a camping trip. A disability should not stand in the way.
Accessible Campgrounds and Parks
The U.S. has a fantastic national and state parks system. National and state parks generally offer more in the way of accessibility with flatter, more level land and either paved or smooth hiking and observation trails.
U.S. National Parks offer free entry and discounted camping rates to visitors with disabilities. The America the Beautiful Access Pass can be obtained for free at any National Park. The person with the disability has to be there in person to obtain the pass. This in the National Parks Service's way of lessening the instances of fraud.
Many states also offer access passes to visitors with disabilities. Discounts vary by state. A Google search of your state, state parks and disability discount will point you in the right direction to obtain a pass. As with the America the Beautiful Access Pass, state park passes are generally free but require a doctor's verification of disability.
Accessible Tents
There is only one accessible tent on the market. The Freedom Camping Tent was designed by Eureka! in conjunction with Blue Sky Designs. This tent features an aluminum frame with easy set-up from a wheelchair and a space to park your wheelchair that is separate from the sleeping area.
The Freedom Tent also features large pull handles to open doors and for the window zippers. One of the most unique features of this tent is the zipperless and easy to slide fan door that allows access to the interior of the tent with minimal hassle for those with limited dexterity in their hands.
Accessible Cabins
It may not sound like camping to some people but to others, a fully-equipped, accessible cabin is the only way to enjoy a camping trip.
Many state parks that rent cabins offer accessible cabins. These can generally sleep between four and 12 people. Accessible cabins are usually heated, have electricity, give you access to your own restroom, provide you with a bed and have a fully equipped kitchen for the times when cooking over the fire just isn't appealing.
Accessible cabins are available in the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, various state parks in California, Minnesota and Wisconsin, and Allegany State Park in New York. Contact the park nearest you to find out if accessible cabins are available to rent.
Other Accessible Camping Equipment
If you have trouble transferring from the ground to your wheelchair or simply prefer not to sleep on the ground, consider a transfer-friendly cot. Try to find one with at least eight legs and pegged feet to make it as sturdy as possible. Many campsites now also offer raised tent beds. This is essentially a small deck about two feet off the ground. This will make for an easier transfer to a sleeping bag.
Coleman's fold-down, two-burner propane camp stove is perfect for campers with disabilities. It is lightweight and easy to transport. It is also easy to clean and has larger knobs and controls, making it easier for someone with limited dexterity to use than a traditional camp stove.
Sources
- Camping 101: Adaptive Equipment and Knowledge for Campers with Disabilities
- U.S. National Park Service
Megan Abrams - I have lived with the effects of a childhood stroke for more than half my life and offer a uniquely personal perspective on disability.
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