Although nature is for all of us, it isn't one size fits all.
When we focus on improving accessibility and inclusion in outdoor recreation, we can help remove barriers to accessing and enjoying the Commonwealth's abundance of local and state parks, state and national forests, and other recreation spaces.
As part of the celebration for Park and Recreation Month in July, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources highlighted six (of the many) organizations in Pennsylvania that are making outdoor recreation inclusive and accessible for everyone.
Camp Victory
Camp Victory in Columbia County offers a safe, fun, and fully accessible camp experience to children otherwise denied it because of limitations imposed by a chronic or catastrophic health problem, or physical or developmental challenges.
Most importantly, all the kids that attend Camp Victory are there to just be kids and find friendship and adventure in the outdoors.
Located on 130-acres of former farmland in Millville, campers can swim, boat, make arts and crafts, bike, climb a rock wall, zip line, take nature walks, and play in the treehouse.
If you are interested in visiting the camp, they are hosting an open house on September 8 or visit the
Camp Victory website.
In Color Birding Club
The In Color Birding Club, based in Philadelphia, recognizes that learning how to exist in nature can start at any age and is creating opportunities for safe, joyful, and inclusive experiences in the outdoors for people of color and their families and friends.
Their public programs are open to people of all ages and experience levels, and they provide binoculars, water, snacks, and educational tips.
Through their bus sponsorship program, they connect school students in the Philadelphia area with local birding events at no cost.
More details about what they offer are on the
In Color Birding Club website.
Team River Runner
Team River Runner provides all active-duty military, veterans, and their families the opportunity to find health, healing, and new challenges through adventure and adaptive paddle sports.
With four chapters operating in Pennsylvania -- two of which are destination chapters -- this small non-profit has created a nationwide model that welcomes service members of any age, with any disability, to participate in innovative paddling programs designed to offer enriching experiences through the healing power of water and community.
They offer a variety of paddling opportunities in all types of waterways throughout the year and encourage experienced paddlers to consider becoming chapter leaders.
If you're interested in learning more, visit the
Team River Runner website.
The Greenhouse Project
The Greenhouse Project in Lackawanna County works to grow a sustainable community through education, wholesome food, and healthy active living.
Outdoor and Active Older Adults is The Greenhouse Project's program dedicated to older adults, ages 60 years and older.
Participants are invited to enjoy outdoor activities, such as kayaking at nearby state parks, yoga and meditation, nature walks, pickleball, gardening, farm tours, and a variety of creative arts.
Outdoor and Active Older Adults is free for Lackawanna County residents and low cost for all others.
The
Greenhouse Project website provides more information about the Outdoor and Active Older Adults program.
The Outdoor Inclusion Coalition
The Outdoor Inclusion Coalition, operating from Pittsburgh, supports Pennsylvanians through programs dedicated to attracting, engaging, and retaining underrepresented populations in the outdoor industry.
They offer year-round programming for school students and the public that gets people outside to experience rock climbing, camping, skiing, and snowboarding.
Through donations, their programs are free for students and low cost for adults.
Scholarships are available for the public if cost is a barrier.
Learn more at the
Outdoor Inclusion Coalition website.
Philly Queer Birders
Philly Queer Birders started in 2021 to create queer community outdoors, learn about birds, and explore all the great birding that Philadelphia has to offer.
They encourage all skill levels to join, provide loaner binoculars, and prioritize accessibility by offering stationary birding events and often selecting locations that are accessible to people who use mobility aids.
All who share their values are welcome to join them. Additional information about the group is available at the
Philly Queer Birders website.
Recreation for All
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources statewide outdoor recreation plan prioritizes safe and welcoming access for all, so that everyone can enjoy the mental, physical, and social benefits of time spent outside.
Learn more about
Pennsylvania's Outdoor Recreation Plan at the
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources website.