Skip to main content

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

Accessible recreation at DCR 
Adaptive recreation program schedule 
Independent recreation opportunities 
Accessible Beaches 
Volunteering with the Universal Access Program 

Contact Us

Universal Access Program Logo

Online

DCR.UniversalAccess@mass.gov

Phone

(413) 461-7126

Fax

(413) 461-7980

Address

PO Box 484
Amherst, MA 01004
Directions 

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  Complete the Universal Access Program release form  Read Essential Eligibility Criteria for UAP recreation programs  Read past issues of the Universal Access Program's newsletter  Learn about DCR's non-discrimination policy 

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 16 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail  

    12 Railroad St., Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, May 16, 2025
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join DCR's Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this spring for adaptive cycling in Hadley.

  • May 21 adaptive cycling on the Blackstone River Greenway 

    3 Paul Clancy Way, Worcester, MA 01607
    Wednesday, May 21, 2025
    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 in Worcester.

  • May 22 adaptive kayaking at Beartown State Forest 

    214 Blue Hill Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230
    Thursday, May 22, 2025
    11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures for adaptive kayaking on the Cheshire Reservoir.

  • May 23 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail  

    12 Railroad St., Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, May 23, 2025
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join DCR's Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this spring for adaptive cycling in Hadley.

  • May 28 adaptive cycling on the Blackstone River Greenway 

    85 Canal Street, Blackstone, MA 01504
    Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    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 30 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail  

    12 Railroad St., Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, May 30, 2025
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join DCR's Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this spring for adaptive cycling in Hadley.

  • DCR UAP 2025 Adaptive Recreation Fair 

    1255 Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, MA 02135
    Saturday, June 7, 2025
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join the Universal Access Program on June 7, 2025 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

Help Us Improve Mass.gov  with your feedback

Please do not include personal or contact information.
Feedback