Outdoor Recreation & Access Resources

Overview:

This section provides advocacy groups, recreation groups, access-focused nonprofits, and concerned citizens with tools to promote and defend public access to federal lands. Whether you're working on trail equity, outdoor inclusion, or disability access, these resources are tailored to help you challenge exclusionary practices and ensure public spaces are truly open to all.

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Downloadable Tools:

• Accessibility & Trails Toolkit (PDF)

• USDA Accessibility Guide for Outfitters and Guides

• Adaptive Recreation Legal Resource Guide

 

FAQs:

• How is ADA enforced on public lands?
  The ADA is enforced on public lands by requiring agencies to make facilities, services, and programs accessible unless doing so would fundamentally alter their nature or impose undue burdens.

• Can we challenge restricted access?
  Yes. Groups and individuals can use administrative complaints, public comment, or legal action to challenge access restrictions that violate ADA or other civil rights protections.

 

Blog Posts:

• Access for All: Legal Rights on Public Lands

 

External Links:

• ADA.gov — U.S. Department of Justice's central resource for ADA regulations and enforcement guidance.

• National Center on Accessibility — Training and technical assistance for making parks and recreation facilities accessible.

• Rails to Trails Conservancy: Accessibility-Trail Building Toolkit —  Focuses on accessibility resources for rail-trails and multiuse trails, defined as 'shared use paths' in accessibility guidance.

• American Trails Accessibility Toolkit for Land Managers— By the Willamette Partnership, a conservation nonprofit dedicated to solving complex environmental problems in ways that work for people. Known for helping state and federal natural resource agencies, businesses, and conservation interests take advantage of opportunities to achieve conservation, social, and economic outcomes.

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Services:

• Accessibility Reviews

• Trail Access Disputes

• NEPA for Access Projects

• Active Transportation & Trails guidance, planning support, and negotiation

• Grant Support

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Call to Action:  Need help with a federal agency issue? ​​ Check out this page.  

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Disclaimer: The resources provided on this page are for informational purposes only and do not constitute legal advice. Use of these materials does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal advice specific to your situation, please contact an attorney.