Contact Info
Parks & Recreation
Administrative Office
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
Programs & Services
Adaptive Recreation
All Abilities Welcome!
Inclusion services are offered so that individuals with disabilities can participate in any program or event hosted by Oakland County Parks.
A certified therapeutic recreation specialist coordinates programs for individuals with disabilities and provides training to staff and volunteers to assist individuals during general recreation programs. Partnerships with more than 30 non-profit agencies, schools and disabled sports organizations enable Oakland County Parks to cooperatively provide unique recreational options.
The Quiet Zone is sensory inclusive space where sensory regulation tools, such as noise reducing headphones and fidget tools, are available.
For additional information, call 248-221-8040 or email OCPrecreation@oakgov.com.
Therapeutic/Adaptive Recreation Resource Guide
The RIM Foundation, Oakland County Parks and Disability Network Eastern Michigan have developedthe Therapeutic/Adaptive Recreation Resource Guide to share knowledge and resources related to recreational therapy throughout Michigan.
Information will be updated quarterly as organizations are added, removed or changed.
We welcome your feedback! To share your ideas or updates, please complete the Suggestion Form in the guide.
Upcoming Events
There is always something happening at Oakland County Parks! Be sure to register for the programs below as quickly as possible since they do tend to fill up quickly.
Adaptive Fishing
Join us for a day of catching fish and enjoying the great outdoors at Independence Oaks County Park during Adaptive Fishing sessions. All equipment is provided so all you need to do is get ready for some fun! Register for the following sessions:
- 2-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 29
Another adaptive fishing opportunity is scheduled from 2-3:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 22 at Thompson Pond in Fort Gratiot.
The program is held in partnership with Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness. Scan the QR code on the Adaptive Fishing flyer or visit https://dnem.recdesk.com to register. All abilities are welcome. For more information, call 586-268-4160 or email REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org.
- Printable Adaptive Fishing Flyer
Adaptive Archery
If you’ve ever wanted to try archery, now is the time! During this Adaptive Archery Lesson, individuals with disabilities ages 14 and older will use adaptive equipment and modifications to enjoy a safe, supportive archery experience. Beginners are welcome.
Four sessions are available:
- Aug. 17, 12:30-2 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
- Aug. 17, 2:30-4 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
This program is presented by the Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness, Disability Network Eastern Michigan and Oakland County Parks. Register by scanning the QR code on the Adaptive Archery Flyer or visit https://dnem.recdesk.com.
- Printable Adaptive Archery Flyer
Adaptive Cycling
Enjoy a 1-hour bike ride throughout Independence Oaks County Park during monthly Adaptive Cycling sessions. Choose a bike, date and one-hour time slot between 2-6 p.m. on the following dates: July 9 and 30, Aug. 27, Sept. 24 and Oct. 1 and 8. All riders must wear a helmet. Bring your own or wear one available at the event.
Other adaptive cycling opportunities are available from 2-6 p.m. Aug. 3 at McIntyre Park in Fort Gratiot and Aug. 11 at Rowden Park in Lapeer.
The program is held in partnership with Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness and Oakland County Parks. Scan the QR code on the Adaptive Cycling flyer or visit https://DNEM.RecDesk.com to register. All abilities are welcome. For more information, call 586-268-4160 or email REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org.
- Printable Adaptive Cycling Flyer
Disability Dirt Days
Experience off-roading at Holly Oaks ORV Park during Disability Dirt Days from 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sundays, Aug. 23 or Oct. 18. An off-roading ride will be provided for a rider and one guest (must be at least 10 years old) during this special event, which is presented by Wheels in Motion, Rehab Without Walls, Disability Network Eastern Michigan and Oakland County Parks.
Registration is required by scanning the QR code on the flyer below or clicking here. Those who register will be sent a confirmation email with additional details prior to the event date. For program questions, text or call 248-221-8040.
- Printable Disability Dirt Days Flyer
Register for Disability Dirt Days
DiversAbility Days
If you have several interests and want to make the most of your time outdoors, the DiversAbility Days series is for you! Free adaptive recreation offerings are available through a partnership between Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness, Oakland County Parks, Huron-Clinton Metroparks, Rehab Without Walls and Wheels in Motion during this series jam-packed with fun recreational activities. Check out what’s on the schedule this year:
- Archery, boat rides, use of adaptive equipment and more, including a hot dog lunch, from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5 at Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township. Cost: $10/vehicle. Registration deadline: July 29
- Kayaking, boat rides, lawn games, use of adaptive equipment and more, including a hot dog lunch, from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13 at Independence Oaks County Park. Cost: Free. Registration deadline: Aug. 6
For questions or accommodation requests, call or text 248-221-8040. Register online today!
- Printable DiversAbility Days Flyer
Adaptive Kayaking
Learn to kayak during one-hour sessions presented by the Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness, Disability Network Eastern Michigan and Oakland County Parks. Kayaking sessions are scheduled as follows:
- June 24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
- July 8, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township
- Aug. 19, 9 a.m.-noon at Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township
- Sept. 9, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston
No kayaking experience is necessary. Equipment and life jackets are provided. All abilities are welcome. There is a $10 donation to hold your spot.
Register by scanning the QR code on the Adaptive Kayaking Flyer or visit https://DNEM.RecDesk.com. This event is sponsored by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Blue Care Network.
- Printable Adaptive Kayaking Flyer
Dreams & Wings
Seated beside an experienced pilot in an airplane, individuals ages 6-17 with disabilities and up to two family members and/or friends can experience the world from a new perspective during Dreams & Wings on Saturday, July 11 at the Maven by Midfield hanger at the Oakland County International Airport in Waterford.
The day includes airplane-themed crafts, fun activities and refreshments. Each child with a disability receives a Dreams & Wings T-shirt, gold aviator wings, commemorative flight certificate and lifelong memories.
There is no charge to attend. All costs are covered by philanthropic contributions.
Registration is due by June 26. Submission of registration form for limited time slots does not guarantee a flight reservation. Applications will be entered in a selection lottery with first-time participants receiving priority.
Participants will be notified via email by June 30 and applicants whose names are not drawn will be placed on a waiting list. Those selected will be forwarded additional registration forms. Flight times will be assigned for between 9 a.m. and noon.
Register online or by scanning the QR code on the Dreams & Wings flyer. Call 248-221-8040 or email OCPrecreation@oakgov.com with questions.
- Printable Dreams & Wings Flyer
Day at the Fair
There’s nothing like a day at the county fair! This year’s Day at the Fair event for individuals with disabilities will feature a free Sea Lion Show, petting zoo, racing pigs, Miracle of Birth Barn and horse and livestock shows from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Thursday, July 16 at Springfield Oaks County Park. Held during the popular Oakland County Fair, this event features free carnival rides, courtesy of Big Rock Amusements, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. for individuals with disabilities and one caregiver.
Reserve a spot by scanning the QR code on the Day at the Fair flyer. Guests who register by July 9 will receive an email with a free parking pass. For more information, call 248-634-8830 or visit OakFair.org.
- Printable Day at the Fair Flyer
Adaptive Golf League
A summer adaptive golf league begins at 10 a.m. Aug. 18 and continues on Aug. 25, Sept. 1 and Sept. 8. During this modified league, participants enjoy two hours of play at their own pace each week at Red Oaks Golf Course. Golfers will be paired with a volunteer/therapist. All abilities are welcome.
Cost is $75 for all four sessions and includes an end of league pizza party. Registration closes Aug. 4. Golfers will receive a confirmation email by Aug. 11. Please note that submission of the registration form does not guarantee your spot. Program is limited to 12 participants. If capacity is reached, applicants will be entered in a selection lottery. Those not selected will be added to a waitlist.
Register online or by scanning the QR code on the Adaptive Golf League Flyer. This event is sponsored by Reimagine Life Foundation and Disability Network Eastern Michigan.
Call 248-221-8040 or email OCPrecreation@oakgov.com with questions.
Access for All: Americans with Disabilities Act Celebration
The Access for All: ADA Celebration Event is set for 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 in the Oakland County Circuit Court Courtyard. Hear from Oakland County Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer Harry Weaver and keynote speaker Erica Coulston, president/co-founder of Walk The Line Recovery Therapy.
There will also be meet-and-greet tables with local organizations committed to accessibility and advocacy, demonstrations of adaptive sports and equipment, inclusive activities for all ages and abilities and food trucks. The event is open to the public so stop by and join the celebration.
For more information about the ADA Celebration Event, call or text 248-221-8040, email the Oakland County Parks Adaptive Recreation Team at OCPrecreation@OakGov.com or visit OaklandCountyParks.com.
Mark Your Calendar
Watch for more information on these events coming soon and keep the 2026 Adaptive Recreation Calendar and the 2026 Events for Individuals with Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities calendar close by for reference:
- Sept. 16 - Disability Dunes Day, 2-7 p.m. at Silver Lake Sand Dunes
- Oct. 21 - Halloween Happiness, 6-8 p.m. at Southfield Civic Center
- Dec. 10 - Jingle Bell Ball, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. Dec. 10 at Waterford Oaks Event Center
- Jan. 15 - Kick Start 2027, 6-8 p.m. Jan. 15, 2027 at Royal Oak Community Center
Additional Resources
Call 248-221-8040 or email OCPrecreation@oakgov.com for more information.
Quiet Zone Events
The Quiet Zone trailer will be available at the following upcoming events:
- Wheels and Squeals, 4:30-8 p.m. June 25 at Waterford Oaks County Park
- Meteors and More!, Aug. 14 at Addison Oaks County Park
Equipment & Services
A variety of adaptive equipment and services are available:
Red Oaks and Wint nature centers have American Sign Language interpreters available during specific programs as noted on the Nature Education Program Schedule. Please call Red Oaks Nature Center at 248-585-0100 or Wint Nature Center at 248-625-6473 for more information.
Braille is included on the animal displays at Red Oaks Nature Center.
Campsites, cabins and yurts with accessible features are available.
Single rider carts are available for individuals with spinal cord injuries, amputees and other physical impairments. Some carts feature a swivel seat that moves to a standing position and also pivots left and right, for maximum activity. Contact the course 72 hours prior to tee time to arrange cart availability.
Kayak launches at Addison Oaks and Independence Oaks county parks aid in the transfer from wheelchair to a kayak and back into the chair for individuals with disabilities or those who need assistance or are learning to kayak. The kayak launches are located near the boathouse at each park.
Hand-operated boats are available at Addison Oaks and Groveland Oaks county parks.
Wheelchair accessible tables are available at all facilities.
Red Oaks Waterpark and Waterford Oaks Wave Pool are equipped with water transfer chairs which enable individuals to transfer from a wheelchair and easily access the water.
The Quiet Zone is an Oakland County sensory inclusive initiative that ensures all event participants feel welcomed and supported at large scale events. It includes a sensory inclusive space where sensory regulation equipment like fidget tools and noise reducing headphones are available.
Paved trails are available at Addison Oaks, Groveland Oaks, Independence Oaks, Lyon Oaks and Waterford Oaks county parks.
Accessibility
The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission makes reasonable accommodations to assist individuals with disabilities, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Sponsorship Opportunities
The original award-winning event series returns for its sixth year in 2026 at Holly Oaks ORV Park in Holly. Dates are May 17, Sept. 20 and Oct. 18. Paired safely with a volunteer driver, individuals with disabilities can experience what it's like to zip through the dirt, bounce over rocks and splash in the water on the ORV course. This free program is open to individuals with any type of disability and their families. Individuals ages 10 and older can participate. The event is expected to attract 90 riders, 200 friends and family and 30 volunteers.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
- Bronze - $200
- Logo on sign at event
- Recognition in post-event email marketing
- Silver - $1,750
- Logo on sign at event
- Recognition in post-event email marketing
- Logo featured on event flyer
- Sponsor mention with website link in post-event email marketing
- Banner displayed at event (banner and ties provided by sponsor)
- Opportunity to host an information tent at event (tent provided by sponsor)
- Verbal recognition during volunteer orientation
- Gold - $5,000
- Logo on sign at event
- Recognition in post-event email marketing
- Logo featured on event flyer
- Sponsor mention with website link in post-event email marketing
- Banner displayed at event (banner and ties provided by sponsor)
- Opportunity to host an information tent at event (tent provided by sponsor)
- Verbal recognition during volunteer orientation
- Sponsor-provided 4’ x 8’ sign displayed at Holly Oaks ORV Park for one year
- Opportunity to showcase vehicles at all Dirt Day events
Diversability Day is a one-day clinic for adaptive recreation opportunities. Two events are planned in 2026: June 18 at Normandy Oaks in Royal Oak and Aug. 13 at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston. OCP has partnered with Disability Network of Southeast Michigan, Department of Natural Resources, Reimagine Life Foundation and other agencies to provide these unique experiences. Activities vary depending on each park, and may include kayaking, archery, hand cycling, fishing, pontoon boat rides, tennis and nature education. The event is an excellent way for attendees to try out adaptive equipment. Lunch is provided.
Dreams and Wings is a one-day event scheduled for July 11, 2026 at Oakland County International Airport. It gives a group of very special kids the opportunity to stretch the limits and explore new horizons. With the roar of the engine and whoosh of the wind, they learn that even the sky need not be a limit when we have the courage to dream. On Dreams and Wings Fly Day, we invite 50 children (and up to two family members/friends) to participate in this very special event. With participation of volunteers, friends and family members, the event draws about 250 participants each year.
Adult participants with developmental disabilities enjoy an evening of music, dancing and dinner during this series of five themed events scheduled throughout the year. This series offers opportunities to celebrate with old friends and make new ones. The events also provide a few hours of free time for parents of these young adults. We have a dedicated group of volunteers who ensure everyone has fun and feels welcome. Attendance is approximately 100 participants per event. Locations vary and include Farmington Hills, Royal Oak, Southfield and Waterford.
We are pleased to continue the tradition of our adaptive golf program for anyone who has a physical disability. Participants can learn or relearn the game of golf, improve strength and skills and build self-confidence. The following programs will be offered:
- Golf 101 on April 14, 2026 at the Disability Network Eastern Michigan (DNEM) in Troy
- The Try 9 series on June 9, 16 and 23, 2026 at Red Oaks Golf Course in Madison Heights
- Adaptive Golf League beginning July 25, 2026 at Red Oaks Golf Course in Madison Heights
In 2024, Oakland County Parks introduced the Quiet Zone at select large-scale events to promote sensory inclusivity. The Quiet Zone is a dedicated space where individuals can recharge in a calm, accommodating environment.
Designed to be free from sensory triggers like food, drinks and perfumes, the Quiet Zone provides a range of supportive tools, including auditory, visual and tactile sensory aids. Features such as noise-buffering headphones, weighted mats, padded floors and floor chairs help attendees regulate their sensory experiences.
By offering these resources, the Quiet Zone empowers participants to regain balance and return to the event feeling refreshed and ready to engage.
The Quiet Zone is currently scheduled for five events in 2026 (subject to change):
- Marshmallow Drop on April 3, 2026 in Royal Oak
- Festival of Flight on Aug. 9, 2026 at the Oakland County International Airport
- Meteors and More on Aug. 14, 2026 at Addison Oaks County Park, located north of Rochester
- Touch a Truck, date and location to be determined
- Health and Housing Fest at Normandy Oaks in Royal Oak, date to be determined
Adaptive recreation equipment plays a crucial role in promoting inclusivity and accessibility in recreational activities by accommodating individuals with diverse physical abilities. By providing adaptive equipment, we create opportunities for engagement in sports, outdoor adventures and other recreational activities, fostering a sense of empowerment, social integration and overall well-being. The importance of adaptive recreation equipment lies in its ability to break down barriers, enabling people of all abilities to share in the joys of leisure and recreation.
Sponsorship Opportunities:
- Standard Wheelchair - $500/wheelchair (Three standard wheelchairs needed)
- Logo on wheelchair
- Logo on website
- Transfer Equipment - $1,500 (Covers cost of Hoyer lift, gait belts and transfer board)
- Logo on sign
- Logo on website
- Cross-Country Sit Ski - $4,000
- Logo on handcycle
- Logo on website
- Mention in email marketing message
- Information table at three events (to be approved by OCP)
- Handcycle - $5,000/handcycle (Two handcycles needed)
- Logo on handcycle
- Logo on website
- Mention in email marketing message
- Information table at three events (to be approved by OCP)
- All-Terrain Wheelchair - $5,000/wheelchair (Two all-terrain wheelchairs needed)
- Logo on wheelchair
- Logo on website
- Mention in Facebook post
- Information table at three events (to be approved by OCP)
Contact Info
Parks & Recreation
Administrative Office
2800 Watkins Lake Road
Waterford, MI 48328
Programs & Services
Parks in Action Series
Date:
08/12/2026 5:30 PM - 8:30 PMAdventure is close to home with Parks in Action series
Parks in Action is a fun, engaging community program that combines outdoor recreation, nature exploration and hands-on activities in our parks. This series offers a variety of interactive experiences such as archery, fishing, nature education, games, and more - encouraging participants to get active, try something new and connect with the outdoors.
The series includes two upcoming sessions:
- Aug. 12, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Red Oaks Nature Center. Activities include a portable planetarium, Birds of Prey program, Agents of Discovery and a nature hike
- Sept. 19, 3-8 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park. Recreation opportunities include archery, kayaking, fishing, hiking and more
This program is sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.
All guests who register at $5/person will receive a branded water bottle. Earn stickers for your Parks in Action water bottle (registered guests) or receive stickers to decorate your own water bottle (all guests).
Details:
- This program series is designed for all ages
- Register online or sign-up the same day
