Accessible Activity Descriptions

Accessible Camping
Parks with accessible camping have at least one campsite that should accommodate persons with disabilities. Facilities offered may include tent or camper space, and cooking surfaces may vary, if provided. All identified parks should provide one or more campsites with parking, site surfaces, and furnishings that are accessible as described. If provided, water faucets and routes to them are accessible to the degree described. All campgrounds described as accessible on this site will include accessible restroom facilities, and most will include accessible showers to the degrees described. Click the underlined park name for details on each park.

Reservations for many California State Park campsites, including some accessible sites, can be made six months to the day in advance of the arrival date by calling (800) 444-7275 or online at ReserveCalifornia™.

Accessible Picnic Area
Parks with accessible picnic sites generally include firm, level, and stable surfaces, with accessible tables, parking (where parking is provided) and paths of travel from parking to the picnic area. If provided, water spigots, and heating or cooking facilities are accessible as described. Weather conditions such as heavy rain or blown sand may influence accessibility. The parks identified herein have at least one picnic area with accessible sites as described. Click the underlined park name for details on each park.

Accessible Trails
Parks with accessible trails provide accessible hiking opportunities on trails or segments of trails that lead to significant features and/or environmental experiences within a park. An accessible trail is a recreational trail that has been constructed in compliance with federal standards for trail accessibility. Trailhead signs provide basic information on width, linear slope, cross slope, and trail surface material that enable visitors to select the trail that best meets their abilities and recreational expectations. Hikers are always urged to use caution as trail conditions change continually based on terrain, season, and environment.

Despite their accessible design, some accessible trails and improved access trails contain linear slopes, structures, or natural features that might be challenging to some users. Where an accessible trail or improved access trail contains one or more of these characteristics, it will be described on the accessible features page. Click the underlined park name for details on each park.

Accessible Beach/Shore Access
Parks with accessible beach and shore access include accessible routes to and across the surface of a beach or shore, but not necessarily to the edge of the water. Currently, this access is mostly by beach wheelchair. Occasionally, beach mats, boardwalks or paved multi-use trails along the beach provide some access. Weather conditions, such as blown sand or heavy rain, may sometimes impact accessibility. Supporting facilities such as parking, restrooms, and dressing rooms are accessible when so described. Routes of travel from parking areas to and along the beach access routes at the parks below are level, firm, stable, and unobstructed when so described. Click the underlined park name for details on each park, and plan to call ahead so that beach wheelchair use details can be arranged. Note: For those interested in accessible swimming, there are pool lifts available at Grover Hot Springs State Park and at Bothe Napa State Park.

Accessible Exhibits/Programs
Parks with accessible exhibits/programs offer interpretive programs and/or groups of exhibits to enhance visitors' experience of a park. Such programs often include guided or self-guided tours or hikes to or through historic sites or natural features. They may also include formal educational exhibits and activities in visitor centers or museums. These programs and facilities may be very diverse. The parks identified herein offer interpretive exhibits or programs that are accessible to the degrees described. Routes of travel to and through the site or facility, as well as accessible parking and restrooms, if parking and restrooms are provided, are accessible as described. Access to outdoor programs or remote facilities may be affected by rain, winds or other weather conditions. Click on the underlined park name for details on each park, and call the parks for the most current information.

Accessible Fishing
Parks with accessible fishing offer fishing for licensed anglers from piers, bridges or platforms that are accessibly designed and located. Where available, supporting facilities such as fish cleaning stations, restrooms, and parking are accessible if so described. Click on the underlined park name for details on each park. Call the park directly for more information.

Note: Fishing may occur in other parks, especially in State Recreation Area units, from undeveloped shorelines or marinas without fishing piers or docks. Parks with undeveloped shoreline fishing were only evaluated for fishing access if a shoreline area was a signed, designated fishing area. Persons who are able to traverse dirt or sand shores and trails may have more fishing options available.