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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

  • 2026 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.

  • August 21 adaptive cycling on the Norwottuck Rail Trail

    12 Railroad Street, Hadley, MA 01035
    Friday, August 21, 2026
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join DCR's Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this summer for adaptive cycling in Hadley.

  • August 22 adaptive hiking at Beaver Brook Reservation

    Metropolitan Pkwy N (parking lot near Waltham City Dog Ranch), Waltham, MA 02452
    Saturday, August 22, 2026
    10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
    Join DCR's Universal Access Program and Waypoint Adventure this summer for adaptive hiking at Beaver Brook Reservation in Waltham.

  • August 27 adaptive kayaking at Quinsigamond State Park

    10 N. Lake Ave., Worcester, MA 01604
    Thursday, August 27, 2026
    10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
    Join DCR's Universal Access Program and All Out Adventures this summer for adaptive kayaking at Regatta Point on Lake Quinsigamond in Worcester.
See all events   for the Universal Access Program

Related organizations

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