---
title: State Parks with Track Chairs
description: Being able to enjoy outdoors is one of life's greatest pleasures. Fortunately in US, there are accessible trails to enjoy for people of all abilities.
image: https://www.spinalcord.com/hubfs/jakub-pabis-aA8Z6ODts9U-unsplash.jpg
---

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# State Parks with Track Chairs

 Author: [Spinal Cord Team](https://www.spinalcord.com/meet-our-authors)

 Publish Date: May 31, 2022

Being able to enjoy the great outdoors is one of life's greatest pleasures and fortunately in the US, there are thousands of accessible trails to enjoy for people of all abilities. And if you want to explore off-trail but can’t walk, you can access this great part of the outdoors thanks to amazing track chairs that are now available at state parks across the country. To see where these chairs can be found, see below.

 

### 1) Kansas

The Adaptive Sportsmen of Kansas Program is in charge of the track chair program for Kansas. Track chairs are stationed regionally at 8 different state parks and unfortunately reservations are not possible. Instead, they’re offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is however a free program. Also, anyone interested must be able to use their right arm, as the joystick is located on the right side of the chair. For further details, contact the Pratt operations office at 620-672-5911.

Reservations Allowed: No   
Cost: Free  
Learn more: [https://ksoutdoors.com/Outdoor-Activities/Track-Chairs-ASK-Program](https://ksoutdoors.com/Outdoor-Activities/Track-Chairs-ASK-Program)

 

### 2) Colorado

In Colorado, there is a Track-Chair Program at Staunton State Park, a newer state park located 40 miles southwest of Denver. You can reserve a track chair with this program, but only on the weekends (Friday—Sunday). The chairs are also free to use, but you must have a park pass. A day pass costs $10. And make sure to pack appropriately. Park elevation ranges from 8,200-10,000ft. To see the reservation calendar, click here: [https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Staunton/Pages/Track-Chair-Availability-Calendar.aspx ](https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Staunton/Pages/Track-Chair-Availability-Calendar.aspx)

Reservations Allowed: Yes   
Cost: Free, but must purchase a state park day pass ($10)  
Learn more: [https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Staunton/Pages/Track-Chair-Program.aspx](https://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Staunton/Pages/Track-Chair-Program.aspx)

 

### 3) Minnesota

There are 5 state parks in Minnesota that began offering track chairs to the public in 2022. They are Camden State Park, Crow Wing State Park, Lake Bemidji State Park, Maplewood State Park and Myre-Big Island State Park. All of these state parks are several hours from the Minneapolis area, with Crow Wing State Park the closest, at 2 hrs away. The track chairs are free to use, but a state park vehicle permit is required. A discounted state vehicle permit costs $12.

Reservations Allowed: Yes (call the park you plan on visiting to reserve)  
Cost: Free, but you must purchase a state park vehicle permit ($12 for disability discounted pass)  
Learn more: [https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/track-chairs.html](https://www.dnr.state.mn.us/state_parks/track-chairs.html)

 

### 4) Michigan

Michigan was one of the first states to provide track chairs at their state parks. Because of this, they offer more track chairs at their state parks than anywhere else in the country. You can find track chairs at 11 of their parks. All track chairs can be reserved and they are free to use. Some of the parks offer them your round, while others only offer them in the Summer or for beach-use. Track chairs can be found at the following state parks: Bald Mountain Recreation Area, Belle Isle park, Grand Haven State Park, Holland State Park, Iona, Island Lake Recreation Area, Ludington State Park, Maybury State Park, Muskegon State Park, Tahquamenon Falls State Parkand and the Waterloo Recreation Area.

Reservations Allowed: Yes  
Cost: Free  
Learn more: [https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/about/accessibility/track-chairs](https://www.michigan.gov/dnr/about/accessibility/track-chairs)

 

### 5) South Dakota

In South Dakota, there is one track chair available that can be used by anyone with a disability, and is located at the Outdoor Campus West in Rapid City. This track chair can be reserved, but only up to 2 weeks before arriving.

Reservations Allowed: Yes  
Cost: Free  
Learn more: [https://gfp.sd.gov/track-chair/](https://gfp.sd.gov/track-chair/)

 

### 6) Oklahoma

In Sand Springs, Oklahoma at Keystone Ancient Forest, there are 2 track chairs available to the public. This is the only program in the state and allows people to explore the ancient trees at this park. Reservations are allowed. To reserve, you must fill out an online form and the staff will contact you about availability.

Reservations Allowed: Yes\  
Cost: Free  
Learn more: [http://sandspringsok.org/566/Track-Chair-Program ](http://sandspringsok.org/566/Track-Chair-Program)

 

## Non-State Park Option

 

### Wisconsin

Wisconsin has an enormous amount of track chairs available, but they’re provided by a nonprofit called Access Ability Wisconsin. They are available at pickup stations in 12 counties throughout state. Their goal is to have a track chair available in all 72 counties. They are free to borrow and each rental comes with a trailer so you can return it after using it. A $50 deposit is required.

And in Hudson, Wisconsin, a track chair is free to use through the Hudson Rod, Gun and Archery Club. Being a member is not required. You can reserve this chair up to 4 days in advance. To request a chair with this program, click here: [https://www.hudsongunclub.com/NewWeb/TC.php](https://www.hudsongunclub.com/NewWeb/TC.php)

Reservations Allowed: Yes  
Cost: $50 deposit required  
Learn more: [https://www.accessabilitywi.org/](https://www.accessabilitywi.org/)

 

### Pennsylvania & New Jersey

In both Pennsylvania and New Jersey, a different style of track chair called Trac Fab can be rented (for a fee) through Mobility on Wheels, a business that rents all kinds of mobility equipment. Track chairs are available for rent in both New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania. Reserve early, as demand is high.

Reservations Allowed: Yes  
Cost: Daily rental fee (call to learn more)   
Learn more: [https://www.mobilityonwheels.com/trac-fab-tracked-terrain-wheelchair-rentals/](https://www.mobilityonwheels.com/trac-fab-tracked-terrain-wheelchair-rentals/)

 

If you don’t see your state listed, don’t fret. Track chair programs are being added to additional state parks around the US at a fast pace. There will likely be track chairs available at all states in the near future.

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{
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  "articleBody" : "The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic <A href=\"/spinal-cord-injury\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><SPAN style=\"font-weight: 400;\">spinal cord injury</SPAN></A>, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as <A href=\"//www.spinalcord.com/blog/contusion-vs.-concussion-understanding-the-difference\">a contusion.</A> Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.</P>\n\n<H2><STRONG>What Is a Spinal Contusion?</STRONG></H2>\n<IMG src=\"https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=300&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg\" alt=\"Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image\" width=\"300\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" srcset=\"https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=150&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 150w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=300&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 300w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=450&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 450w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=600&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 600w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=750&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 750w, https://www.spinalcord.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Blog-Images/Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg?width=900&amp;name=Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image-min.jpg 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\"/>\n<P>Much like any other bruise, a contusion can cause bleeding from local blood vessels and inflammation which, rather<I><SPAN style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> unlike</SPAN></I> bruises on other parts of the body, can have serious negative impacts on the spinal cord itself. Because the<A href=\"/blog/contusion-vs.-concussion-understanding-the-difference\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> “blood must clot to stop the bleeding”</A>a bruise results from contusions also increase cardiovascular risks.</P>\n<P>For example, the swelling a contusion can cause will often disrupt nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body through the spinal cord, and the severity of this will depend upon the level of injury. Unlike a concussion, a contusion would not cause unconsciousness or a ‘blackout’, but instead cause the patient to feel a numbness or tingling in the extremities.</P>\n<P>A contusion can cause spinal compression, which happens when there is pressure on the spinal cord. This can go on to cause an array of <A href=\"http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/nervous_system_disorders/spinal_cord_compression_134,13/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">physical symptoms</A> such as loss of sensation in the feet, inability to use the hands and loss of sexual ability. It must be noted that not all contusions cause spinal compression, and not all spinal compression is caused by a contusion, although they do often connect this way.</P>\n<H2><STRONG>Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion to Watch For</STRONG></H2>\n<P>Firstly, doctors will try and establish what area or limb the injury has affected. Spinal contusions most often “affect the upper extremities bilaterally and also sometimes involve the lower extremities,” <A href=\"http://www.healio.com/orthopedics/journals/ortho/2012-1-35-1/%7B7b1ed5f6-d6ca-435e-b69a-dba8a6d7c3c0%7D/spinal-cord-contusions\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">according to Dr. Wong</A>, an orthopedic physician.</P>\n<P>Symptoms include “numbness, tingling, [or] electric shock-like sensations and burning in the extremities,” <A href=\"http://www.aans.org/patient%20information/conditions%20and%20treatments/spinal%20cord%20injury.aspx\">(American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 2016)</A>. Generally falling into the category of “spinal trauma” there are many symptoms which are similar to other forms of spinal trauma and spinal cord injury. Below are some symptoms of spinal trauma:</P>\n<UL>\n<LI>Spinal shock — or the &quot;loss of feeling or movement below site of injury&quot; <A href=\"http://www.columbianeurosurgery.org/conditions/spinal-trauma/\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\"><I>(Columbia University Medical Centre, 2016) </I></A>that can last between hours and weeks</LI>\n<LI>Loss of bladder or bowel function</LI>\n<LI>Difficulty breathing</LI>\n<LI>Muscle spasticity</LI>\n<LI>Difficulty understanding speech</LI>\n<LI>Problems with attention</LI>\n<LI>Memory challenges</LI>\n<LI>Heart rate and blood pressure problems</LI>\n</UL>\n<P>Unfortunately, it is sometimes challenging to identify which symptoms are due to a spinal contusion, and which ones are the result of a spinal cord injury directly. It can sometimes require a few days or weeks for the body to recover from spinal trauma and reveal if any permanent damage is left from the accident that caused the SCI.</P>\n<P>Understanding what a contusion is, and how it can come into play following a spinal cord injury is important in order to clearly appreciate your injury, understand your diagnoses, and work toward treatment and a prognosis. Doctors can sometimes use jargon that’s difficult to understand, so the more you can educate yourself about your condition, the more control you can have in your recovery and treatment.</P>\n<P>If you still have questions about the details of the spinal cord and how it may be affected from your injury, please contact us or download our <A href=\"/the-simplified-guide-to-understanding-a-spinal-cord-injury\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\">guide to understanding a spinal cord injury</A>.",
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"description":"The spinal cord is a vital part of the human body. As the vehicle responsible for carrying messages from the brain to the rest of the body and back again, even the smallest interference can be detrimental. Following a traumatic spinal cord injury, this bundle of nerves can become bruised, also known as a contusion. Because of the nature of the nervous system, any interference can constitute a serious spinal contusion, but these facts will help you dissect all of the information from the medical professionals.

What Is a Spinal Contusion?
Signs-of-a-spinal-contusion-title-image
Much like any other bruise, a contusion can cause bleeding from local blood vessels and inflammation which, rather unlike bruises on other parts of the body, can have serious negative impacts on the spinal cord itself. Because the “blood must clot to stop the bleeding”a bruise results from contusions also increase cardiovascular risks.

For example, the swelling a contusion can cause will often disrupt nerve impulses that travel from the brain to the body through the spinal cord, and the severity of this will depend upon the level of injury. Unlike a concussion, a contusion would not cause unconsciousness or a ‘blackout’, but instead cause the patient to feel a numbness or tingling in the extremities.

A contusion can cause spinal compression, which happens when there is pressure on the spinal cord. This can go on to cause an array of physical symptoms such as loss of sensation in the feet, inability to use the hands and loss of sexual ability. It must be noted that not all contusions cause spinal compression, and not all spinal compression is caused by a contusion, although they do often connect this way.

Warning Signs of a Serious Spinal Contusion to Watch For
Firstly, doctors will try and establish what area or limb the injury has affected. Spinal contusions most often “affect the upper extremities bilaterally and also sometimes involve the lower extremities,” according to Dr. Wong, an orthopedic physician.

Symptoms include “numbness, tingling, [or] electric shock-like sensations and burning in the extremities,” (American Association of Neurological Surgeons, 2016). Generally falling into the category of “spinal trauma” there are many symptoms which are similar to other forms of spinal trauma and spinal cord injury. Below are some symptoms of spinal trauma:

Spinal shock — or the loss of feeling or movement below site of injury (Columbia University Medical Centre, 2016) that can last between hours and weeks
Loss of bladder or bowel function
Difficulty breathing
Muscle spasticity
Difficulty understanding speech
Problems with attention
Memory challenges
Heart rate and blood pressure problems
Unfortunately, it is sometimes challenging to identify which symptoms are due to a spinal contusion, and which ones are the result of a spinal cord injury directly. It can sometimes require a few days or weeks for the body to recover from spinal trauma and reveal if any permanent damage is left from the accident that caused the SCI.

Understanding what a contusion is, and how it can come into play following a spinal cord injury is important in order to clearly appreciate your injury, understand your diagnoses, and work toward treatment and a prognosis. Doctors can sometimes use jargon that’s difficult to understand, so the more you can educate yourself about your condition, the more control you can have in your recovery and treatment.

If you still have questions about the details of the spinal cord and how it may be affected from your injury, please contact us or download our guide to understanding a spinal cord injury.",
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