Accessible Recreation
Support accessibility efforts on Wisconsin’s public lands
NRF and our conservation partners are on a journey to make the outdoors a more welcoming place for people of all abilities. We look for ways to help a wider variety of people enjoy our state’s natural wonders by supporting the accessibility programs of our friends at the Wisconsin DNR, by directly funding accessibility work through our grant programs, and by increasing access to outdoor adventure in our Field Trip program.
Supporting the Wisconsin DNR’s accessibility efforts
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is committed to providing exceptional outdoor recreation opportunities for people of all abilities around the state. Whether at our parks and forests, on land and water, there is something for everyone. Their accessibility fund is managed by NRF, and all donations go towards the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ accessibility efforts.
To donate by check, make your check out to the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin with “DNR Accessibility” in the memo line, and mail it to NRF at 211 S. Paterson St. Suite 100, Madison, WI 53703.
Other ways that NRF supports accessibility
Improving accessibility at Wisconsin State Parks properties
The David and Joyce Weizenicker Fund for State Parks was established to support projects on Wisconsin State Park properties that facilitate accessibility for senior citizens, especially trail development, maintenance and restoration, and the development and maintenance of rest stops, including benches, overlooks, and interpretive signage.
David and Joyce Weizenicker at Kinnickinnic State Park at the unveiling of a new trail funded in part by the David and Joyce Weizenicker Fund for State Parks. Photo by Caitlin Williamson
Accessibility on NRF Field Trips
NRF is dedicated to providing opportunities for people with various physical abilities to join us out in the field. If you, a family member, or friend have mobility challenges, we have several options.
Trip titles in the Field Trip Guidebook are color coded with a physical demand rating to help you decide whether the activity level matches your abilities. Trip descriptions also specify trail lengths and surfaces, amount of sitting/standing, and more. Learn more about accessibility on NRF Field Trips and explore Field Trips that are accessible for standard wheelchairs or offer Outdoor Wheelchairs to use on-site below.
During the “Door County Accessibility and Geology” Field Trip in 2023, participants learned about Peninsula State Park’s accessibility efforts, including the new wheelchair-accessible observation tower. Photo by Shelly Torkelson
Caitlin Williamson
Director of Conservation
(608) 409-3109
Caitlin.Williamson@WisConservation.org
Cait Williamson (she/her) directs the Natural Resources Foundation’s conservation and environmental education programs and initiatives, working closely with partners from across the state to ensure we have the most significant impact possible on Wisconsin’s lands, waters, and wildlife.
Banner photo of Newport State Park Fern Trail boardwalk by Caitlin Williamson