Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and connect with Nature. There are different types of camping, and each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages. One popular type of camping is ADA camping. Let’s take a closer look at, what is ADA camping?
The short and simple answer is that ADA camping is specially made of people that are in wheelchairs and it will facilitate them. So, without further delay let’s take a closer look and let you know about What does ADA means at a campsite?
What is ADA Camping – Complete Guide
ADA stands for Americans with Disabilities Act, designed for those who need accessible campsites and facilities, that are accessible to people in wheelchairs and other mobility devices. This allows those who have disabilities to enjoy camping activities in an environment suited specifically to their needs.
ADA camping includes designated campsites, restrooms, showers, and parking areas that are accessible to those with disabilities. A few examples of items that may be included in ADA camping are:
- Wider campsites
- Camp sites with lower fire rings
- Paved roads leading to the campsite
- Clear paths through the site (making it easier for wheelchairs to navigate)
- Shower stalls with benches or seats.
What Amenities Are Available at ADA Campsites?
There are many elements to ADA campsites and facilities, and most of them apply to outdoor settings. For example:
Picnic Tables
These tables allow multiple people to sit together and enjoy a meal. Each table is equipped with wheelchair access. Benches are also included, allowing people to sit while they visit with their friends.
Grills
These are other elements that benefits multiple people at once. Bars are included on the grill, allowing wheelchairs and walkers to be used on either side of it. To protect users from burns, there is a guard on the grills and the handles are also wheelchair accessible.
Campfires
Campfires must meet ADA safety requirements before they can be lit, and this includes the materials used to build them and the ground around it. Since campfires may result in sparks, there is a five-foot safety zone where no one can stand unless they’re protected from such dangers.
How Do You Find ADA Campsites?
You can find ADA camping facilities by visiting the website for the National Forest you want to visit and looking for an ADA icon on their listings of campgrounds and trails. All national forests in the United States offer some form of the accessible campsite so, with a little research, it should be easy to plan an accessible trip no matter where you decide to go.
What Are Some Features of ADA Campsites?
ADA campsites offer the same amenities as regular sites, though they might be a little more spread out and not clustered together like regular campsites. They feature designated parking spaces for people with wheelchairs or other mobility devices, picnic tables that are wheelchair accessible, and trails that are at least 36 inches wide.
These trails are usually made of packed dirt or gravel, which allows people using crutches, canes, walkers, and wheelchairs to move about the site with ease. They also feature accessible restrooms that feature wider stalls for wheelchair access and handrails in the restroom itself.
Are There Any Campgrounds That Aren’t Accessible?
It is important to keep in mind that not all campgrounds offer accessible amenities, even if they are part of a larger national forest or park system. Make sure to check your location’s website before planning your trip because some campsites are not accessible.
If you do find a campsite with accessible amenities, make sure to use them. Not only will you be able to connect more deeply with nature by being surrounded by the sights, smells, and sounds of nature, but you’ll also have the added convenience of having an accessible restroom right in your campground.
Conclusion
ADA camping is designed for disabled individuals who want to enjoy recreation in the outdoors. ADA campsites typically include wheelchair-accessible picnic tables and fire grills, but they do not cost more than non-ADA sites.
As long as you follow the rules related to accessible camping, anyone can use these sites without paying any additional fees. However, not all public and private campgrounds offer ADA camping, so it’s important to do research before planning a camping trip and now you are well aware of what is ADA camping.