Adaptive Recreation

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.

Paved trails are available at Addison Oaks, Groveland Oaks, Independence Oaks, Lyon Oaks and Waterford Oaks county parks.

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)