Adaptive program schedule

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

Spring 2025 programs

Check out our Spring 2025 Program Schedule for adaptive recreation fun this season!  We offer a variety of activities including adaptive cycling, hiking, kayaking, and rowing at different state parks across Massachusetts. 

General information

DCR’s Universal Access Program (UAP) is dedicated to providing outdoor recreation opportunities in Massachusetts state parks for visitors of all abilities. Accessibility is achieved through site improvements, specialized adaptive recreation equipment, and accessible recreation programs.

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.

UAP’s Program Seasons: Our Spring program season runs from April through May, our Summer program season runs from June through August, our Fall program season runs from September through October, and our Winter program season runs from November through March. 

Contact List: If you would like to get added to our contact list to be notified of upcoming events and activities, please email us. 

Release Forms and Pre-Registration: A current release form is required for all our programs, and you must pre-register with the organization running the program. To pre-register, cancel, or check-in about inclement weather, please contact the providing organization listed for each program.

Essential Eligibility Criteria and Program Attendance Guidelines: 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).

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.

Accommodation Requests: 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.

2025 Adaptive recreation fair

Photo courtesy of Unspoken Images Photography.

Mark your calendars!! 

What: The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Universal Access Program’s (UAP) 2025 Adaptive Recreation Fair

When: Saturday, June 7th, from 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

Where:  Herter Park/Artesani Playground, 1255 Soldiers Field Rd, Brighton, MA 02135

Join DCR’s Universal Access Program and other adaptive recreation organizations for an accessible and inclusive day of fun and networking along the Charles River!  Enjoy adaptive cycling, adaptive pickleball, music, refreshments, and adaptive hiking, surfing, and fencing equipment demonstrations! There will be family-friendly activities including face painting, adaptive golf, and lawn games.  Find out about adaptive recreation programs across the state! Join us rain or shine, for this fun-filled, inclusive day celebrating accessible outdoor recreation in Massachusetts State Parks!

Cost: FREE!

Pre-registration is recommended-especially if you need to request an ASL interpreter or other accommodations.

To Register: 

• Go online mass.gov/DCRAdaptiveFair
• call Teri at  [phone],  or
• email [e-mail]

Volunteers Needed! Contact Mariah at [phone] or [e-mail]   

Accessible Event:

• Booths are placed along paved and stone dust paths
• Curb Ramps and Temporary Curb Ramps will be in place
• Mats allow access to activities on grass
• Accessible portable toilets will be on site; a bathroom with accessible flush toilets and running water are a few hundred feet away
• There are no electric hook ups available at the event

Parking is Free but Limited:

• Parking lot is shared with the public and is first-come, first served
• Drop off and pick up area at fair entrance
• Parking attendants will be available to help direct

Special Accommodations should be requested in advance during registration.  Please allow at least two weeks (14 days) advance notice. Last minute requests will be accepted, but we may be unable to fulfill the request.

Please bring your own water bottle. We are no longer purchasing single-use plastic water bottles, so please bring your own reusable bottle or cup and help us promote sustainability! You can fill up at MWRA's Quench Buggy-a mobile water fountain that provides free, cold drinking water!

Adaptive canoeing & kayaking

Photo courtesy of All Out Adventures.

Beartown State Forest—Kayaking

214 Blue Hill Road, Great Barrington, MA

Join UAP’s adaptive kayaking program on Benedict Pond in Great Barrington, run by our partner All Out Adventures.  Paddlers will travel in small groups (pods) to explore the pond. Instruction, adaptive equipment, and assistance as needed is provided.

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. Seniors are invited to register as well. All ages and abilities are welcome!

Day and Time: Thursday, May 22, 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m.

Participants may sign up for one of two time slots:  11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. or 1 p.m.–2:30 p.m. You must register by 12 p.m. the day before the program.

Closest GPS Address:  214 Blue Hill Road, Great Barrington, MA.  This is just east of the park entrance.  Take Benedict Pond Road to the first parking lot on your right at the pond. Signs will be posted.

Access Blue Hill Road from Main Road (Route 23).  Avoid accessing Benedict Pond from the park's North Entrance due to dirt roads.

Cost: $8 per participant; One guest may attend at no charge. Scholarships are available for those who need them.

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

Adaptive cycling

Photo courtesy of Waypoint Adventure.

Cochituate State Park—Tandem Cycling

43 Commonwealth Road, Natick, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible tandem cycling in Natick.  During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, 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.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends April 17, 2025.

Day and Time: Friday, April 18, 2025, 10 a.m.–12:30 p.m. 

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. 

To Register: Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

UAP photo.

Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, Farnams Crossing—Cycling

50 Farnams Road, Cheshire, MA

Join UAP’s adaptive cycling program in Cheshire, run by our partner All Out Adventures. We offer 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. Instruction, equipment, and assistance (as needed) are provided.

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. Seniors are invited to register as well.  All ages and abilities are welcome!

Days and Times: Wednesdays, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• April 23, 2025
• May 14, 2025

Participants may sign up for a one-hour timeslot during the program.  You must register by noon the day before the program.

Meet At: Parking lot located at 50 Farnams Road, Cheshire, MA 01225

Cost:  $5–$20 sliding scale per session.

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call [phone], or email [e-mail]

Photo courtesy of All Out Adventures.

Blackstone River Greenway—Cycling

85 Canal Street, Blackstone, MA

Join UAP’s adaptive cycling program in Blackstone, run by with our partner All Out Adventures.  We offer 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. Instruction, equipment, and assistance (as needed) are provided.

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends.  Seniors are invited to register as well.  All ages and abilities are welcome!

Days and Times: Wednesday, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

• April 30, 2025
• May 28, 2025

Participants may sign up for a one-hour timeslot during the program.  You must register by noon the day before the program. 

Meet At: Blackstone River Greenway Parking, 85 Canal St, Blackstone, MA 01504

Cost:  $5–$20 sliding scale per session.

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call [phone], or email [e-mail].

Photo courtesy of All Out Adventures.

Norwottuck Rail Trail—Cycling

12 Railroad Street, Hadley, MA

Join UAP’s adaptive cycling program in Hadley, run by our partner  All Out Adventures. We offer 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. Instruction, equipment, and assistance (as needed) are provided.

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends.  Seniors are invited to register as well.  All ages and abilities are welcome!

Days and Times: Fridays, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. 

• May 2, 2025
• May 9, 2025
• May 16, 2025
• May 23, 2025
• May 30, 2025

Participants may sign up for a one-hour timeslot during the program. You must register by noon the day before the program.

Cost:  $5–$20 sliding scale per session.

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call [phone], or email [e-mail]

Photo courtesy of Waypoint Adventure.

Nashua River Rail Trail—Tandem Cycling

Route 2A, Ayer, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible tandem cycling in Groton.  During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, 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.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends May 14,  2025.

Day and Time: Friday, May 15, 2025, Time to be determined

Meet At: Broadmeadow Parking Lot-Corner of Broadmeadow Road and Court Street, Groton MA

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. 

To Register: Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Photo courtesy of All Out Adventures.

Blackstone River Greenway at the Blackstone River Valley Heritage Center—Cycling

3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester, MA

Join UAP’s adaptive cycling program in Worcester, run by our partner All Out Adventures. We offer 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. Instruction, equipment, and assistance (as needed) are provided.

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. Seniors are invited to register as well.  All ages and abilities are welcome!

Day and Time: Wednesday, May 21, 2025, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Participants may sign up for a one-hour timeslot during the program.  You must register by noon the day before the program.

Cost:  $5–$20 sliding scale per session.

Questions & To Register: Register with AOA online at alloutadventures.org, call [phone], or email [e-mail]

Adaptive hiking

Photo courtesy of Waypoint Adventure.

Great Brook Farm State Park—Hiking

165 North Road, Carlisle, MA 

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible small group hiking in Carlisle. During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, you’ll see stunning forests, ponds/waterways, eat lunch, connect with new people, and end with a tour of a working barn lead by DCR staff! You’ll benefit from our selection of adaptive equipment, receive instruction to meet any learning style, and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends April 23, 2025.

Day and Time: Thursday, April 24, 2025, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. One parent/friend/PCA of program participant with a disability may attend at no charge (see Waypoint’s Registration page for details).

To Register: Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Photo courtesy of Waypoint Adventure.

Breakheart Reservation—Hiking

177 Forest Street, Saugus, MA

Join the Universal Access Program for accessible small group hiking in Saugus. During this program, run by our partner Waypoint Adventure, we will see stunning forests, ponds/waterways, eat lunch, and connect with new people. You’ll benefit from our selection of adaptive equipment, receive instruction to meet any learning style, and be encouraged to reach your individual goals.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration ends May 6, 2025.

Day and Time: Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.

Cost: $20/Participant. Cost flexible based on need. One parent/friend/PCA of program participant with a disability may attend at no charge (see Waypoint’s Registration page for details).

To Register: Visit waypoint-adventure.jumbula.com

Questions: Email [e-mail]

Adaptive rowing

UAP photo.

Connecticut River Greenway State Park—Rowing

25 Jones Ferry Rd., Holyoke, MA

Join UAP for some adaptive rowing on the Connecticut River in Holyoke! This program, run by Holyoke Rows, uses specialized equipment, modifications, and adaptations to meet your needs while rowing or sculling. Instruction, adaptations, and staff support are all provided. You will receive instruction and the opportunity to practice and also have the chance to participate in competitions! Our program serves people of all capabilities, from beginners to leisure rowers, to competitive racers!

This program is for people with disabilities, their families, support staff, and friends. Seniors are invited to register as well. All ages and abilities are welcome!

Pre-registration is required.

Days: Thursdays, By Appointment Only

• April 10, 2025
• April 17, 2025
• April 24, 2025
• May 1, 2025
• May 8, 2025
• May 15, 2025
• May 22, 2025
• May 29, 2025

Cost: Free

Questions & to Register: Call Holyoke Rows at [phone] or email [e-mail]

Spring 2025 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.  Each providing organization has their own requirements for programming, including release forms, EEC, and program attendance guidelines. Please contact the providing organization (by phone, email or by checking their website) for further information and to register.

Golfing with the Massachusetts Para-Golfers Association

Photo courtesy of MPGA.

The Massachusetts ParaGolfer Association (MPGA) promotes recreational and competitive adaptive golf for players with visual impairments, amputations, loss of mobility, and spinal cord injuries.  MPGA provides adaptive golf lessons, recreational programs, and competitive events. Lessons are private and always free, and we offer flexible dates and times.

Beginners: Appointments are available weekdays to learn to play and, if needed, to get certified to rent a specialized golf cart. Players receive an introduction to MPGA adaptive golf, as well as an independent needs assessment to provide them with the right tools and equipment to help them swing with confidence.     

Returning Players: We welcome anyone to play as many holes as they are capable of and enjoy (starting on the first tee time available).  Most have joined a relaxed golf league style of play. A mixed players league is scheduled on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays starting around 9:30–10 a.m. (based on tee time availability).  Three days advance notice required, and up to 12 players may play either 9 holes, or a full 18 holes.   

Please make a reservation in advance by calling or texting Steve [phone].

Website: mpga.club

Locations: DCR Golf Courses

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

Dates: Late April through end of October 2025

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

10^th Annual MPGA New England Regional Adaptive Gold Championship: October 1-October 30, 2025

Golfing with Golf for All

Photo courtesy of 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.

Website: golfforall.org

Locations: DCR Golf Courses

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

Dates:   Late April through end of October 2025

Clinics at Ponkapoag Golf Course:

• Veterans: Saturdays, 3:30–4:45 p.m.
• Golfers with Special Needs: Mondays, 6:00–7:15 p.m.

Clinics at Leo J. Martin Memorial Golf Course:

• Golfers with Autism: Thursdays, 12:30–1:30 p.m.
• Golfers with Parkinson’s: Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. (June & September only)

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

Sailing with Community Boating, Inc.

Photo courtesy of 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. Members include veterans, individuals with visual impairments, children with developmental disabilities, adults with chronic injury or illness, and many more.

Website: community-boating.org/accessible

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

Dates:  April 28–September 27, 2025

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]

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

Photo courtesy of SASC.

Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers (SASC) will be offering a variety of adaptive adaptive  sport programs at the McGraw Center for Adaptive Sports at Nickerson State Park starting mid-May through mid-October.  Spaulding staff provide equipment, adaptations, and support. Pre-registration for all activities is required.

Visit SASC’s on-line calendar for further information about McGraw Center Programs.

Website: Spaulding Adaptive Sports Centers

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

Dates: Mid-May through mid-October 2025

Contact:  [e-mail], [phone]

Accessible camping—registration is open!

UAP Photo.

DCR accessible campsites provide a variety of camping experiences in campgrounds across Massachusetts. The sites all have room for accessible parking, and a flat, firm, and stable surface for camping. Yurts and cabins provide shelter, access to electricity, and furniture. RV-only sites have a paved parking area, and some of them also have an area for a tent. Accessible pop-up and tent sites have hard-packed level ground, pedestal grills or accessible fire rings, and accessible picnic tables.

You'll always find accessible restrooms located in the same loop as the accessible sites. Some accessible sites are close to the restrooms for easier access, while others are further away for a more secluded camping experience. The path from most accessible campsites to the restroom is the campground road, which was not designed as an accessible pedestrian route. You can drive to the accessible restrooms and park there.

To see a list of accessible campsites, visit Accessible Camping.

If you have questions about a specific site, about accessible camping in general, or are having trouble making a reservation for an accessible site, please contact the Universal Access Program.

DCR wants to hear from you!

DCR is committed to sharing information with the public and engaging them in dialogue on issues, programs, and projects.  Please help us identify the best ways to improve our state parks for visitors with disabilities and ensure our projects are meeting your needs.

You can learn about initiatives and share your thoughts by:

• Visiting DCR Public Meetings Information webpage where you can scroll through DCR projects and make public comments online.
• Receiving DCR general or project-specific announcements via email. Request to be added to the contact list by emailing [e-mail] or calling [phone].

Last updated:	November 22, 2024