Adaptive program schedule

See a list of the current adaptive recreation programming offered in state parks, swimming pools, and skating rinks.

General information

The Universal Access Program (UAP) offers adaptive, accessible programming seasonally at state parks, pools, and rinks. We partner throughout the year with All Out Adventures, Easterseals Massachusetts, Holyoke Rows, and Waypoint Adventure to provide programs statewide. Our structured programs feature adaptive equipment, professional staff, and instruction and support. Friends, family members, and companions are encouraged to take part in our programs alongside participants with disabilities.

Our main winter program season runs from November through March, and our main summer season runs from June through September. We sometimes offer programs in the spring and fall as well. If you would like to get on our mailing list to be notified of upcoming events and activities, please contact us.

A current release form is required for all of our programs, and you must pre-register with the organization running the program. You must also meet the essential eligibility criteria and follow our program attendance guidelines for the activity. Essential eligibility criteria (EEC) help you understand the skills you need to participate in our programs. For risk management considerations, everyone who attends our programs must complete a release form and meet these EEC, including caregivers and group staff. You can meet the EEC independently, or with the help of a caregiver (family member, friend, or PCA).

Several organizations also offer adaptive programming at DCR locations on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment. These are called supported programs. These supported programs may have their own requirements and release forms. Please contact the providing organization for more information about a supported program.

If you need an accommodation at a program, like an ASL interpreter or a sighted guide, please let the program provider know when you're registering. Please allow at least two weeks (14 days) advance notice for accommodation requests. Program providers may not be able to fulfill last-minute requests.

2024 Adaptive recreation fair

Save the date for Saturday, June 8 for our free annual adaptive recreation fair! The fair takes place in at Herter Park near Artesani Playground, Wading Pool and Spray Deck. 

Join DCR’s Universal Access Program and other adaptive recreation organizations for a fun day of accessible and inclusive activities and networking along the Charles River. Enjoy adaptive cycling, pickleball, equipment demonstrations, music, refreshments, and more! There will be family-friendly activities including face painting, adaptive golf, lawn games, and a nature mandala. Find out about adaptive recreation programs across the state! 

Check out mass.gov/DCRAdaptiveFair for more information and to see a list of exhibitors.

Please register for the event online or by calling Teri at [phone]

Volunteers are also needed! If you'd like to volunteer at this event, please contact Mariah at [phone] or [e-mail]

Rowing with Holyoke Rows

This program, operated by Holyoke Rows, is free to individuals with people with disabilities and their families. While receiving instruction and the opportunity to practice, rowers also have the chance to participate in competitions! Our program serves people of all capabilities, from beginners to leisure rowers, to competitive racers!

Connecticut River at Jones Ferry, Holyoke

Every Thursday, by appointment only, starting April 18.

• April 18
• April 25
• May 2
• May 9
• May 16
• May 23
• May 30

Cost: Free

To Register: Call Holyoke Rows at [phone] or email [e-mail]  

Hiking & Cycling with Waypoint Adventure

Hiking

Join Waypoint Adventure for a spring hike at historic and beautiful Walden Pond State Reservation! We'll meet at the visitor's center and hike in the woods next to the pond, stopping along the way for a picnic lunch and natural interpretation from Walden Pond park staff.

Walden Pond State Reservation, Concord

Thursday, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

• April 18

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. One parent/friend/PCA of program participant with a disability can attend at no charge.

To Register: Visit Waypoint Adventure’s website

Tandem Cycling

During Waypoint Adventure’s Tandem Cycling Program, small groups work together to cycle the back roads and bike paths of Massachusetts. Participants are encouraged to bring lunch and socialize on the trail and during breaks. We have a variety of bikes that offer different amounts of support.  We will match up two riders (a Captain and a Stoker). The Captain will be the leader and the Stoker is the other half of the team, who works with the Captain to enjoy the adventure of tandem cycling.  Some of our bikes are more traditional upright bicycles that require teamwork and balance.  We also have other models that are side by side or recumbent, low to the ground, tandems. Some have two wheels and require more balance while others are quite sturdy with three wheels and supportive seats.

Nashua River Rail Trail, Broadmeadow Parking Lot - Corner of Broadmeadow Rd and Court Street, Groton

Sunday, 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m.

• April 7

Wompatuck State Park, 204 Union St, Hingham, MA 02043

Thursday, 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

• May 9

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. One parent/friend/PCA of program participant with a disability can attend at no charge.

To Register: Visit Waypoint Adventure’s website

Cycling & Kayaking with All Out Adventures

Cycling

Join All Out Adventures for accessible cycling in Central and Western Mass locations including: the Norwottuck Rail Trail in Hadley, the Blackstone River Greenway in Blackstone and Worcester, and the Ashuwillticook Rail Trail in Cheshire.  We have an array of cycles that can accommodate riders of all abilities from stable, comfortable recumbent trikes to handcycles to tandem recumbent trikes to wheelchair tandems. This program is open to people with disabilities and their families and friends. Instruction, equipment, and assistance as needed are provided. Sign up for a 1 to1.5-hour time slot during the program time.

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, 50 Farnams Rd, Cheshire, MA

Tuesdays, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• April 30
• May 21

Blackstone River Greenway, 85 Canal St, Blackstone, MA

Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• April 17
• May 1
• May 15

Norwottuck Rail Trail, 12 Railroad St., Hadley, MA

Fridays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

• April 19
• April 26
• May 3
• May 10
• May 17
• May 24

Blackstone River Greenway at the Blackstone River Valley Heritage Center, 3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester, MA

Wednesday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• May 8

Cost:  $5 per participant. Scholarships available for those who need them.

To Register: Call All Out Adventures at [phone] or email [e-mail]

Kayaking

Join All Out Adventures for paddling on the Cheshire Reservoir off the Ashuwilticook Rail Trail! Paddlers will travel together in a small pod. There will be 1 hour 15-minute timeslots to allow for time to get set up and recreate on the water. Sign up for a morning (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.) or afternoon (1:15 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.) time slot.

Farnam’s Crossing, 50 Farnams Rd, Cheshire, MA

Friday, 11:00 a.m.–3 p.m.

• May 31

Cost: $8 per participant. Scholarships available for those who need them.

To Register: Call All Out Adventures at [phone] or email [e-mail]

Spring 2024 Supported Programs

Several organizations also offer adaptive programming at DCR locations on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment. These are called supported programs. These supported programs may have their own requirements and release forms. Please contact the providing organization for more information about a supported program.

Each providing organization has their own requirements for programming, including EEC and program attendance guidelines. Please check their website or inquire for more details when registering for a program.

Golfing with the Massachusetts ParaGolfer Association

 

The Massachusetts ParaGolfer Association (MPGA) promotes recreational and competitive adaptive for players with visual impairments, amputations, loss of mobility, and spinal cord injuries.  MPGA provides adaptive golf lessons, recreational programs, and competitive events.

Locations: DCR Golf Courses

• Ponkapoag Golf Course, 2167 Washington Street, Canton, MA,
• Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course, 190 Park Rd, Weston, MA

Contact: Steve Kuketz, [e-mail], [phone]

Golfing with Golf for All

Golf for All runs year-round programming for veterans, people with autism, Parkinson’s Disease, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, cerebral palsy, golfers with amputations, golfers with visual impairments, and more. Golf instruction is tailored to suit the specific needs of each participant and is taught by PGA Professionals who have successfully completed a certification process for teaching golfers with adaptive needs. Golfers of all abilities and gender are welcome, and no previous experience is necessary. During each clinic, golfers are provided with instruction, balls, adaptive equipment, and vehicles, as needed. 

Locations: DCR Golf Courses

• Ponkapoag Golf Course, 2167 Washington Street, Canton, MA,
• Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course, 190 Park Rd, Weston, MA

Contact: Fred Corcoran, Executive Director,  [e-mail], [phone]

Sailing with Community Boating, Inc.

Nestled in the heart of Boston, Community Boating allows individuals to take responsibility for their learning, push themselves to overcome challenges, and experience the freedom sailing offers. With top-notch instruction and quality equipment, the program provides support and encouragement to individuals who might not otherwise be able to sail.

For an affordable annual fee, members can reserve Sailing Lessons or Guided Recreational Sails customized to meet individual needs. The time on the water is priceless. One-on-one instruction allows members to progress at their own pace and develop a thorough understanding of sailing as well as track their progress towards goals within individualized curricula. Members include veterans, individuals with visual impairments, children with developmental disabilities, adults with chronic injury or illness, and many more.

Location: Charles River Esplanade in the Charles River Reservation, 21 David G Mugar Way, Boston, MA

Dates:  May 1–October 15

Times:  Afternoons and weekends: see scheduling page for appointment times

Annual Membership:  $50 or reduced fee of $1 upon request

Eligibility:  Any individual who needs additional assistance

Contact:  [e-mail], [phone]

Cycling, Kayaking, Paddleboarding, Yoga & Yard Games with Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers

Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) will be offering a variety of adaptive sport programs at the McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports at Nickerson State Park starting May 14^th.  The McGraw Center is a unique partnership between SASC and DCR. Spaulding staff provide equipment, adaptations, and support. Programs are open to individuals of all ages in the community who are living with disabilities. Pre-registration for all activities is required.

Visit SASC’s On-line Calendar to see upcoming programs.

Location:  McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports, Nickerson State Park, Brewster MA

Contact:  [e-mail],  [phone]

Last updated:	April 3, 2024