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Universal Access Program (UAP)

The Department of Conservation and Recreation's Universal Access Program provides outdoor recreation opportunities in Massachusetts state parks for visitors of all abilities.

Enjoy Massachusetts state parks with the Universal Access Program

A golfer is using a Paragolfer to raise themselves up to make a putt.
Accessible recreation at DCR 
A group of kayakers on a lake surrounded by trees.
Adaptive programs 
A man and a child push a woman in a beach wheelchair across the sand.
Independent opportunities 
A wide, flat trail through the woods. A wooden bench is next to the trail.
Accessible trails 
A hiker holding a white cane holds the arm of another hiker walking beside them.
Volunteering with the Universal Access Program 

Contact Us

Address

PO Box 484, Amherst, MA 01004
Directions 

Phone

(413) 461-7126

Online

DCR.UniversalAccess@mass.gov

Fax

(413) 545-5995
Universal Access Program Logo

Who we serve

The Universal Access Program ensures equal access to outdoor recreation in Massachusetts state parks. We're always working to improve and update our sites and buildings for you to visit. We also have specialized recreation equipment for you to use at beaches and skating rinks. And, we offer year-round adaptive recreation programs.

On our pages, you'll see the terms accessible and adaptive used. Accessible means a location or program meets the requirements of state and Federal accessibility standards. Adaptive means that an activity uses equipment and techniques that have been adapted to the user and their needs. If you have questions about whether you can access a site or a program, please contact us.

We invite you to use this website as a guide to discover the most accessible parks, forests, beaches, and events.

What would you like to do?

Learn about accessible recreation opportunities at DCR  Attend an adaptive program or event  Learn about DCR's non-discrimination policy  Complete the Universal Access Release Form  Read Universal Access Essential Eligibility Criteria  Read past issues of the Universal Access Program's newsletter 

Upcoming Events

  • Adaptive rowing on the Connecticut River 

    25 Jones Ferry Road, Holyoke, MA 01040
    Thursdays by appointment, April–October
    Join the Universal Access Program and Holyoke Rows every Thursday for adaptive rowing on the Connecticut River.

  • May 10 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail 

    12 Railroad Street, Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, May 10, 2024
    11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures on Fridays for adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail.

  • May 15 adaptive cycling on the Blackstone River Greenway 

    85 Canal Street, Blackstone, MA 01504
    Wednesday, May 15, 2024
    11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this spring for adaptive cycling on the Blackstone River Greenway.

  • May 17 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail 

    12 Railroad Street, Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, May 17, 2024
    11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures on Fridays for adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail.

  • May 21 adaptive cycling on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail 

    50 Farnams Rd, Cheshire, MA 01225
    Tuesday, May 21, 2024
    11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this spring for adaptive cycling on the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail.

  • May 24 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail 

    12 Railroad Street, Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, May 24, 2024
    11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures on Fridays for adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail.

  • May 31 adaptive kayaking on the Cheshire Reservoir 

    50 Farnams Road, Cheshire, MA 01225
    Friday, May 31, 2024
    11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures for adaptive kayaking on the Cheshire Reservoir.

  • DCR UAP Annual Adaptive Recreation Fair 

    1255 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA 02135
    Saturday, June 8, 2024
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program on June 8, 2024 to meet other adaptive organizations, enjoy adaptive cycling and other activities, and learn about accessible recreation opportunities across the state!
See all events   for the Universal Access Program

Related organizations

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