Located in Northeastern Utah, East Canyon State Park (https://stateparks.utah.gov/parks/east-canyon/) is the perfect place to take a quiet break, and enjoy a scenic overnight stay in a wheelchair-accessible lakeside yurt. Perched on the hillside, the yurt village overlooks the reservoir, and offers visitors a scenic and serene place to spend the night.
Spend The Night
Inside the Wells Yurt in East Canyon State Park, Utah
Accessible parking is located next to the Wells yurt, with ramp access up to the spacious deck. The wide front door features level access, and there’s plenty of room to navigate a wheelchair inside the yurt.
Furnishings include two Adirondack chairs, a futon, a coffee table, and a bunk bed with a double on the bottom (19 inches high) and a single on the top. There’s also an eight-inch high trundle bed under the bunk. Round it out with electricity and propane heating and you have a very comfortable yurt. Just bring your bedding, towels, cooking gear and food and you’re good to go. And since there are just four yurts in the village, this lakeside yurt is also a peaceful spot to spend the night.
But Wait…There’s More
Deck at the Wells Yurt in East Canyon State Park, Utah
Outside, there’s plenty of room to wheel around the deck, which is furnished with a gas bbq, an accessible picnic table and two benches. And if you’d like to toast a few marshmallows, there’s also a fire ring in a level area near the deck.
The accessible yurt is located next to the bathhouse, which is equipped with a private shower room that’s outfitted with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. A family restroom is located next door, and it features a full five-foot turning radius, toilet grab bars on the back and left walls (as seated), and a roll-under sink. A mirror image family restroom, with toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), is located on the other side of the accessible shower room. It’s a very accessible setup, and usable by folks with a variety of disabilities.
All in all, this wheelchair-accessible lakeside yurt is a great place to rest your head while exploring Northeastern Utah.
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Located on the south side of Yaquina Bay on the outskirts of Newport, South Beach State Park (stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=park.profile&parkId=149) is the perfect retreat for folks who just want to kick back and enjoy the rugged beauty of the Oregon coast. The park boasts a nice selection of wheelchair-accessible trails, as well as an accessible spot to picnic near the beach. And if you’d like to spend the night, there are also 23 wheelchair-accessible yurts in the park. Not only is South Beach State Park a very accessible choice, but it’s also quite affordable as well.
Location! Location! Location!
Inside the Winchuck Yurt
Although there’s a wide selection of wheelchair-accessible yurts to choose from, location is everything when it comes to yurt selection. The lion’s share of the accessible yurts are located in the large Cooper Ridge Campground, which also allows RVs with generators. And unfortunately that generator noise takes away from the whole outdoor experience.
That said, there are four wheelchair-accessible yurts in tiny Cooper Ridge Village, which only has eight yurts. No RVs are permitted in this area, and as a result you’ll have a peaceful and quiet stay. Although any yurt in the village is a good choice, accessible yurt 8 offers the most privacy, as there are no neighbors on one side.
And in case you are a little fuzzy on the yurt concept, think of it as camping light. Yurts are round domed canvas structures that are set on wooden platforms. You don’t have to pitch a tent, but you do need to bring along linens or sleeping bags, as well as cooking supplies.
An Accessible Abode
There’s level parking on the hard-packed dirt pad in front of yurt 8, with an accessible path over to the ramped porch. This wheelchair-accessible yurt has a wide doorway and is furnished with a table and two chairs and a futon. It also has a a bunk bed with a double on the bottom and a single above. The futon and bottom bunk are 21 inches high, and the yurt also has electricity and a heater.
Although there are no cooking facilities inside the yurt, there’s plenty of room to set up a camp stove on the spacious front deck. There’s a picnic table and two chairs on the deck; and an accessible fire ring and another picnic table in a level area next to the yurt.
An accessible restroom is located in the yurt village, and showers can be found in the adjacent campground. There’s a level path with good signage leading to showers, and although it’s a bit bumpy in places, it’s doable for most folks. The accessible shower room features a wide doorway and plenty of room to maneuver a large power wheelchair or scooter. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. Toilet grab bars are located on the back and right walls (as seated), and there is also a roll-under sink with a lowered mirror in the spacious room.
Bath house in the Yurt Village
Take a Hike
There are a number of accessible trails in South Beach State Park, but the best way to get out to the beach is to take the quarter-mile paved trail which begins next to campsite A 10 in the Cooper Ridge Campground. This wide level quarter-mile trail leads through a woodland area, then opens up to an accessible boardwalk over the dunes. Once you reach the beach overlook, there’s an accessible viewing platform with a bench to sit and enjoy the view.
South Beach Trail
You can also access the trail from the day use area, where there’s accessible parking with barrier-free access to some picnic tables on a level grassy area. There is also an accessible stall in the nearby restroom.
And finally, the South Jetty Trail runs from the day use area to the South Jetty. This mile-long multi-use trail is paved and level, and it’s a great choice for wheelers and slow walkers. Down at the South Jetty there is an accessible porta-potty, and plenty of room to roll around and enjoy the jetty views. And if you’d like to do the trail in reverse, you can also access the South Jetty area from the nearby parking lot. It’s a great accessible stroll no matter which trailhead you choose, and the perfect way to top off any South Beach State Park visit.
South Beach Jetty Trail
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Located along the St. Helena Highway, Bothe Napa State Park (napaoutdoors.org/parks/bothe-napa-valley-state-park/) is easy to overlook, especially if you’re winery hopping along this popular Napa County thoroughfare. That said, it’s not only a nice place to stop for a picnic or to enjoy a short hike; but if you’re up for an adventure, it’s also an excellent place to overnight. Although the park offers wheelchair-accessible campsites, it also boasts a comfortable wheelchair-accessible yurt. Granted, this yurt is pretty basic — some would even describe it as rustic — however it provides a quiet, off-the-beaten-path lodging option in what can often be described as a crowded and overly congested area of the state.
Sleeping in a Wheelchair-Accessible Yurt
Inside Yurt 26 at Bothe Napa State Park
There are two campgrounds and yurt areas in the park, but this accessible yurt (26) is located away from the Group Campground, in the quieter Ritchey Creek Campground. There’s plenty of room to park on a level dirt pad in front of Yurt 26, with ramp access up to the front door. Access features inside the yurt include a wide doorway, wooden floors and ample space to navigate a wheelchair. Furnishings include a 21-inch high queen-sized bed with wheelchair access on both sides, four folding cots, and a table with two benches.
You’ll need to supply your own bedding, sleeping bags, pillows and towels; and since the yurt lacks electricity it’s also a good idea to pack along a lantern, flashlights and a camp stove. And although the mattress is certainly adequate, if you prefer more support you might also want to bring an air mattress.
Outside, there is a short accessible path over to a picnic table and a storage locker. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the outdoors, sip some wine, and relax as the sun sets. As an added bonus, it’s also very dark in the park, and with no ambient light you can really enjoy the night sky.
The bathhouse is just a short walk away. A family restroom with a roll-under sink and toilet grab bars is located in the front section of the bathhouse, while the private pay showers are located on the side. The accessible shower room includes a roll-in shower with grab bars, a built-in shower bench and a lowered showerhead. There’s plenty of room for an attendant in the large shower room, and it also features a spacious changing area with lowered hooks.
A Nice Picnic Stop
Picnic Grounds at Bothe Napa State Park
Even if you don’t spend the night in the wheelchair-accessible yurt, make plans to stop in for a picnic lunch and explore the park. The bulk of the accessible picnic tables are located in the day use area, which is located just down the park road from the visitor center. Accessible parking is located near the tables, with paved pathways to the tables and the accessible restrooms. If you’d prefer a more secluded repast, drive all the way to the end of the park road, park in the accessible parking spot, and feast at one the tables in the level shaded area.
Pioneer Cemetery at Bothe Napa State Park
Save some time for a short walk to the Pioneer Cemetery on the accessible trail, which begins near the picnic tables at the end of the road. The hard-packed dirt loop winds around the restored graveyard, which dates back to the mid 1800s. There are benches to sit and rest along the way, while you gaze at the plots surrounded by quaint white picket fences. The trail then loops back through the woods to the site of the historic White Church, before it returns to the picnic area.
Last but not least, make sure and stop at the Native American Garden, which is located on the left side of the visitor center. The accessible pathway begins near the back of the building and winds through a natural garden filled with plants that were important to the first people of the area — the Wappo. Although a few of the species are labeled, the visitor center also has a plant guide to enhance your understanding of the native people. It’s just a short trail — only 150 yards or so — but it’s a pleasant stroll to top off your Bothe Napa State Park visit.
Trail to the Native American Garden at Bothe Napa State Park
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Located on the western edge of Lookout Mountain in far Northwestern Georgia, Cloudland Canyon State Park (gastateparks.org/CloudlandCanyon) boasts some of the best views in the state. Visitors marvel at the deep gorge cut by Daniel Creek, and enjoy sandstone cliffs, dense woodlands and abundant wildlife in this remote natural area. But remote doesn’t necessarily mean inaccessible, as slow walkers and wheelchair-users can also enjoy the scenery and then bed down in an accessible yurt at this off-the-beaten-path scenic find.
Enjoy the Canyon View
Overlook Trail in Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia
Although a good chunk of Cloudland Canyon State Park is composed of rugged backcountry and some challenging trails, the most spectacular canyon views can be found on the accessible Overlook Trail. Accessible parking is available in the picnic area parking lot, with level access over to the trailhead. There are also accessible picnic tables and restrooms near the parking area.
Make a right at the trailhead to take the Overlook Trail, as a left turn will put you on the inaccessible West Rim Loop Trail, which descends into the canyon. The Overlook Trail is wide and paved and mostly level, and is marked by light blue blazes on the trees. This half-mile trail winds along the canyon and offers some nice views along the way.
The most accessible overlook is located directly behind the interpretive center. Some manual wheelchair-users may require assistance with the slight grade, but it’s quite doable for most power wheelchair-users. There are also two more overlooks along the trail, but due to some aging Civilian Conservation Corps stone steps, they are not accessible.
After the second overlook the trail winds through the forest past a picnic table before it loses its access. Still it’s a pleasant one-mile round trip hike, with benches to sit and enjoy the forest along the way. And if you can’t manage the distance, at least stop for the beautiful canyon view behind the interpretive center.
Camp Out in an Accessible Yurt
Yurt 10 in Cloudland Canyon State Park, Georgia
If you’d like to spend the night at Cloudland Canyon State Park, then reserve a comfortable yurt. Yurt 10 is wheelchair accessible and can sleep up to six people. Accessible parking is available near the yurt, with a drop-off space directly in front of the level walkway to the front porch.
The yurt features wide doorways and wood floors and is outfitted with a 13-inch high bunk bed (bottom bunk) and a 19-inch high double futon. Other furnishings include four bar stools, a tall table, a shorter wheelchair-height table and some shelves. The yurt is also equipped with electric outlets, a ceiling fan and a heater. Linens are not provided, so make sure to pack along your sleeping bag.
There’s level access out to the private back porch that’s surrounded by the forest, and furnished with two Adirondack chairs and a small table. Out front there’s an accessible picnic table on a pad, a grill, a deer dressing stand and a water spigot. It’s a comfortable set up, and with only 10 yurts in the village, it’s not as crowded as the campgrounds.
The comfort station is located a short walk down a paved road; however there’s also an accessible parking space in front if you’d prefer to drive. The standard comfort station is not accessible, but there are two large accessible family restrooms next door. They each feature a toilet with grab bars, a roll-under sink and a full five-foot turning radius. The shower area includes a roll-in shower with grab bars, a fold-down shower bench and a hand-held shower head. And since these two units are mirror images, there’s a choice in regards to toilet grab bar placement.
Billed as the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, Flathead Lake takes up a fair amount of real estate. Measuring 30 miles long and 16 miles wide, it covers 197 square miles. And although there are a number of campgrounds around the lake, the one at the Big Arm Unit (montanastateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/big-arm-unit–flathead-lake-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=MT&parkId=630110) is particularly attractive. This section, which was name for the large bay that resembles a “big arm,” has just 40 campsites; most of which are located under a mature stand of ponderosa pines.
And then there are the yurts, which are perched on a hillside overlooking the lake. There are three of them, including one that’s ideal for wheelchair-users and slow walkers. So pack the car and hit the road to Western Montana, and spend the night in this wheelchair-accessible Flathead Lake yurt.
Wheelchair-Accessible Flathead Lake Yurt
Interior of Yurt at Flathead Lake, Montana
The organization of the campground at the Big Arm Unit allows for maximum privacy for folks in the yurts. Most of the campsites are located along the main park road near the shoreline, while only the yurts and the host sites are located on a small road above the lake. Finding it may be a bit tricky the first time though, because the sign pointing to the yurts is located right after the turn. No problem, just continue down to the general campground, turn around by the restrooms, then hit the turn on your way back. The wheelchair-accessible Swan yurt is the last one on the right.
There’s parking in a level area, with room to deploy a ramp near the yurt, and a level pathway over to the deck. The deck winds around to the front of the yurt, where there’s level access through a wide door. Inside, there’s plenty of room to roll around the yurt, which is furnished with two shelving units, a table with two benches, a bunk bed (the lower bunk is 21 inches high) and a futon. The 19-inch high futon folds down and can accommodate two people, with wheelchair access on one side.
The yurt also includes several electrical outlets, lights, a heater and a fan. And the unit is partially surrounded by trees for privacy, but there’s still a nice view of the lake from the front deck. Add in an accessible vault toilet next door, and you have just about everything you need.
There’s More!
Accessible Yurt at Flathead Lake, Montana
There’s certainly enough room on the deck for a camp chair or two, but there’s also an accessible picnic table right next to the yurt. There’s a raised grill and a fire ring next to it, so bring some s’more makings and you’re good to go.
There’s also a tent pad next to the picnic table. The short pathway to the tent pad has a steep slope, which would be a challenge for many wheelchair-users. That said, it might be a good option for friends or family who don’t need any accessible accommodations.
And of course, you just can’t beat this location, as Flathead Lake is beautiful. You can get a closer look at it from the day-use area, which is near the park entrance. Make a right, just after you pass the entrance kiosk. This road goes all the way to the boat launch, but there’s a nice picnic and viewing area on the right, before you hit the launch.
There’s accessible parking in this lakeshore lot, and a sidewalk that leads over to an accessible vault toilet. There are two accessible picnic table under the pines near the lake, with level access out to them. There’s also a large ramada in this area, and although it does have level access and an accessible picnic table, it’s reserved for groups. And if you happen to be launching a boat, there’s an accessible trailer parking spot right behind the vault toilet. All in all, the Big Arm Unit of Flathead Lake is a pleasant place for a picnic, or a nice place to take a break, spend the night and and enjoy the view.
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Nicknamed the “Switzerland of America”, Ridgeway State Park (cpw.state.co.us/state-parks/ridgway-state-park) is one of Colorado’s often overlooked gems. Located off of Highway 550, about 15 miles south of Montrose, it offers stunning views of the San Juan Mountains, and borders a five-mile stretch of the Uncompahgre River. And the good news is, thanks to a bevy of accessible trails, a loaner track wheelchair, a water wheelchair and even a wheelchair-accessible paddleboard, it’s now possible to plan a wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park getaway. Top it off with spending a night or two in a wheelchair-accessible yurt, and you have all the ingredients for a perfectly accessible outdoor excursion.
Explore the Forest
One of the largest areas of the park, Dutch Charlie, is the perfect spot to enjoy a wheelchair-accessible Ridgeway State Park visit. It includes the visitor center, several accessible trails, an accessible beach area, and a campground.
There’s accessible parking in front of the visitor center, which is located just off of Highway 550. The visitor center features level access to a variety of interpretive exhibits, a ranger information desk and accessible restrooms.
Overlook Trail at Ridgway State Park
There are two accessible trails near the visitor center. The Overlook is a short 600-foot paved trail that leads over to a vantage point that offers a good view of the Ridgway Reservoir. The Forest Discovery Trail also begins near the visitor center. This .6-mile hard-packed dirt loop is wide and fairly level; however there are some rough spots and ruts along the way. Additionally it can get pretty muddy after a storm, but it’s usually passable in a loaner track chair.
Forest Discovery Trail at Ridgway State Park
Two loaner track chairs are available at the visitor center, however advance reservations are required. Staff members are not allowed to assist with transfers to the track chair; and a park volunteer must accompany all track chair-users on their excursions. The excursions can include the Forest Discovery Trail, as well as several other trails in the park. Track chairs must be reserved at least one week in advance on the park website, or by calling (970) 626-5822. It’s a great way for wheelchair-users and slow walkers to explore the park, but plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Bluebird on the Discovery Forest Trail at Ridgway State Park
Hit the Beach
Mobi-mat at Mears Bay BeachBeach at Ridgway State Park
If you prefer the beach to the forest, them head on over to Mear’s Bay, which is just a short drive from the visitor center. There’s accessible parking near the marina, with level access over to the office and the accessible picnic tables on the adjacent deck There’s also ramp access down to the beach, which has a 300-foot Mobi-Mat to the water.
If you’d like to go into the water, a loaner MobiChair is available to use at the Mears Bay swimming beach. This floating wheelchair can travel over the sand or on the Mobi-Mats and go into the water. It is not self propelling, so users need someone to push the MobiChair.
And for more water fun, check out the loaner SOLFiesta wheelchair-accessible paddleboard. This massive paddleboard measures 15 feet six inches long by five feet six inches wide. There are tie-downs for a wheelchair in front, and room for a passenger behind it. And there’s still plenty of room in back for the requisite guide who maneuvers the paddleboard.
There’s no charge to use the Mobi Chair or the accessible paddleboard, but advance reservations are a must. They can be made on the park website or by calling (970) 626-5822. And just like the track chair reservations, they must be made at least a week in advance.
Finally, if you’d like a short walk while you’re in the area, then check out the Mears Bay Trail. This one-mile paved trail has a maximum grade of 4% , and runs alongside the lake. It’s not really too scenic in dry years when the lake is low, but if it’s a normal rainfall year it’s very pleasant.
Spend the Night
Yurt 10 in Dakota Terraces Campground at Ridgway State Park
Top off your wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park adventure with an overnight stay in the park. Book a night or two at the accessible yurt in the Dakota Terraces Campground, which is located midway between Mear’s Bays and the visitor center,
Accessible yurt 10 is located in Loop A of the campground. This round canvas structure offers accessible parking in front, with a paved pathway to the front porch. Access features include a threshold ramp, a wide entrance door, and good pathway access throughout the yurt.
The yurt is furnished with two queen futons (bring your own bedding), a bunk bed and a table and chairs. The kitchenette has a small counter, and it includes a microwave and a refrigerator. And although there isn’t a bathroom in the yurt, it does have electricity, an overhead light and a stove for heat. Outside, there is an accessible picnic table, a grill on a cement pad, and a 15-inch high tent platform.
Inside Yurt 10
An accessible restroom is located next door, with accessible parking in front of the building. Accessible pay showers are available in the camper services building near the beginning of Loop A.
Toilet and Showers in the Camper Services Building
So save the trouble of pitching a tent and give yurting a try for a night – or two – in Ridgway State Park. It’s a comfortable and affordable way to extend your visit to wheelchair-accessible Ridgway State Park.
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Let’s face it, all yurts are not created equal. These round canvas structures with wooden floors are popping up at state parks and campgrounds across America; and let’s just say some offer more creature comforts than others. Some are pretty basic, with just the roof over your head and a pair of bunk beds. Others, such as this wheelchair-accessible Umpqua yurt, offer a bevy of deluxe features, including a private bathroom, a kitchen and electricity. And you just can’t beat the location — in the heart of Umpqua Lighthouse State Park (oregonstateparks.org/index.cfm?do=parkPage.dsp_parkPage&parkId=83). So pack you car and hit the road to the Oregon coast, and spend the night in this deluxe wheelchair-accessible Umpqua yurt.
Sleeping in Style
Located in a secluded enclave just north of the campground, the Yurt Village includes six yurts, including the wheelchair-accessible model (yurt 16). Accessible parking is located in a small parking lot near the yurt village, which is a short level roll to the wheelchair-accessible Umpqua yurt. The yurt is is surrounded by vegetation for maximum privacy, and there’s level access to the covered front porch.
Great room in Yurt 16 at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
There’s plenty of room to maneuver a wheelchair around the great room, which is furnished with two 18-inch high futons and a 21-inch high bunk bed (bring your own linens), with a double on the bottom and a single on the top. There’s also a DVD player and a TV in the unit, and although there’s no TV reception, it’s a good entertainment option if you bring along your own DVDs. As an added bonus the yurt also comes equipped with lights, electric outlets and even a heater.
Kitchen in Yurt 16 at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
The adjacent kitchen is equipped with full size refrigerator, a microwave, and a sink. There’s also a table with four chairs next to the kitchen. It’s a simple set-up, but quite functional, although you do need to pack along dishes, cookware and utensils.
The bathroom has a wide sliding door, and it features a full five-foot turning radius. It’s equipped with a roll-in shower with grab bars, a hand-held showerhead and a fold-down shower bench. Other access features include toilet grab bars on the back and right walls (as seated), and a roll-under sink.
Bathroom in Yurt 16 at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
And if you’d like to grill your dinner, there’s also a propane BBQ near the front porch. Top it off with an accessible picnic table and a fire ring, and you have everything you need.
Reservations for this wheelchair-accessible Umpqua yurt can be made up to nine months in advance at www.reserveamerica.com.
Whale Watching and More
While you’re in the area, be sure to take a short drive over to the Umpqua River Lighthouse. Built in 1857, this 65-foot tall tower sits at the entrance to Winchester Bay. There’s accessible parking near the lighthouse, with level access over to the adjacent museum. Even though the museum is accessible, admission is only offered as part of the lighthouse tour, which is not accessible. Still it’s worth a stop just to get a look at the outside of the historic lighthouse. And if you have a picnic lunch, there’s also a few accessible picnic tables in front of the museum.
Save some time to stroll across the street, where you’ll find an accessible overlook which offers a nice view of the Umpqua River and the Pacific Ocean. And although the scenery by itself is splendid, during the winter months it’s also possible to spot migrating gray whales in the distance. Be on the lookout for these massive giants from late November to early January, when the pregnant females head south from Alaska, to give birth in the warm waters off of Baja California. Of course whale watching is a matter of luck and timing, but to increase your odds, visit during the peak migration in early January. And don’t forget to bring along your binoculars.
Whale watching platform at Umpqua Lighthouse State Park
Dean Creek Detour
For more wildlife viewing, take a short detour to Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area (www.blm.gov/visit/dean-creek-elk-viewing-area). Just follow highway 38 east from Reedsport for about three miles, and keep your eyes peeled for Roosevelt Elk on the right side of the road.
Interpretive display at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
There are several spots along the road that have accessible viewpoints and overlooks, and there’s even a small interpretive display near one popular viewing area. Access is good at all the viewing areas, with accessible parking, level access out to the overlooks, and accessible restrooms. There’s also a pullout on the right side of the road at about the 4.5-mile mark that offers some incredible windshield views.
The good news is that because of mild winter temperatures and abundant food supplies, the elk remain in the area year-round. The not so good news is that, like most wildlife viewing opportunities, spotting these animals depends a lot on luck. That said, you can increase your odds by visiting in the early morning, or just before dusk. On the plus side, the Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area is close to Umpqua Lighthouse State Park, so it’s possible to make several return visits during your stay.
Elk at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area
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