This website was created as a resource by the Interpretation and Education Division of California State Parks to support district staff in improving access to parks for visitors of all abilities.  Funding for this project is made available by the Interpretation and Education Division.  When funding is exhausted, this website will remain available to park districts state-wide while some functions, such as requests for accessibility equipment, may no longer function. To learn more about the visitors we are hoping to serve through this project, please visit the resources listed below. For further questions or concerns, please contact scott.shepherd@parks.ca.gov.  

The North American Association of Environmental Educators (NAAEE) recommends "using language that individuals and communities prefer when referring to themselves and using person-first and identity-centered language when possible." We recognize that some of the resources found in this website may include terms that some people are now moving away from, including “special needs.” We know that language is constantly changing, and we are committed to ensuring support for students with disabilities and equitable access to high-quality education. 

Please Note: You can now access FREE training modules, webinars, articles, and complete texts to support your learning about improving access for visitors of ALL abilities!  Some examples are:

• Request the purchase of mobility devices (like Beach Wheelchairs) and Assistive Listening Devices with funding from the Interp & Ed Division! 

• Request the purchase of Assisted Listening Devices with funding from the Interp & Ed Division.

• Access FREE online courses to support Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Access (JEDAI) in California State Parks

• Read recommended FREE Complete Texts to improve your understanding of Race, Gender, Sexuality, Identity, and Ability in the visitors we serve. 

• Start learning American Sign Language (ASL) for Outdoor Professionals to support your interpretive programs