Adaptive program schedule

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, Stavros Outdoor Access, and Waypoint Adventure to run our programs. Our East Boston ice skating program is supported by Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers.

Our main winter program season runs from November through March, and our main summer season runs from June through September. Our calendar of events is published in May and December of each year. 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. Get into the activity sooner when you arrive by bringing your release form filled out! To pre-register for an activity, in the event there is inclement weather, or if you need to cancel, please contact the providing organization listed for each program.

You must also meet the essential eligibility criteria 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 meet these EEC. 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.

Additional Resources

Essential eligibility criteria for Universal Access Program participants

DCR UAP Participant Registration and Release Form

Summer 2020 supported programs

Although the Universal Access Program has suspended programming for the 2020 summer season, other adaptive recreation providers are offering in-person and virtual programming in the state parks on their own, sometimes with the use of DCR equipment.

While visiting a state park, please take appropriate steps to protect your health and the health of others by following the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s (DPH) guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Visitors to state parks should follow these additional guidelines:

• Minimize outdoor recreational time to limit potential exposure to COVID-19;
• Stay within solitary or small groups, and avoid gatherings of ten or more people;
• Practice social distancing of at least six feet between individuals;
• Administer healthy personal hygiene, such as handwashing for at least 20 seconds;
• Participate in only non-contact recreational activities;
• Leave a park or area should large gatherings begin to build; and,
• Stay home if ill, over 70, and/or part of a vulnerable population. 

Please check out the DCR State Parks Covid-19 update for information on facilities and closures.

Adaptive golf at DCR golf courses

The Massachusetts ParaGolfer Association (MPGA) promotes recreational and competitive adaptive golf for players with visual impairments, amputations, loss of mobility, and spinal cord injuries. For more information or to schedule a round of golf at the Leo. J. Martin Memorial Golf Course or at Ponkapaug Golf Course , contact Steve Kuketz at [e-mail] or [phone].

The McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports at Nickerson State Park

Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) are offering both in-person and virtual programs at the McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports at Nickerson State Park. Activities include cycling, hiking, strength and conditioning exercise classes, yard games, and spin classes. To learn more and to register, visit the SASC website.

Last updated:	August 31, 2020