2026: Free and low-cost adaptive recreation in Oakland County Parks
Discover new outdoor activities close to home
Join Oakland County Parks and Disability Network Eastern Michigan for a variety of free or low-cost adaptive recreation offerings this summer and make the most of every moment of sunshine. These beginner-friendly activities feature adaptive equipment and modifications to ensure safe, supportive and enjoyable experiences for everyone.
Adaptive Archery Lessons
Boost your focus by taking a shot at archery at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston. Two dates for an Adaptive Archery Lesson are available: May 13 and Aug. 17. Choose from either 12:30-2 p.m. or 2:30-4 p.m. time slots.
Lessons are suitable for individuals with disabilities ages 14 and older. Register online or call 586-268-4160 for more information.
Adaptive Cycling
Enjoy a leisurely bicycle ride through the park during Adaptive Cycling Sessions. Several dates are available, including these from 2-6 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston: May 14, 21 and 28; July 9 and 30; Aug. 27; Sept. 24; and Oct. 1 and 8. Additional cycling sessions are scheduled from 2-6 p.m. Aug. 11 at Rowden Park in Lapeer and Aug. 3 at McIntyre Park in Fort Gratiot.
Participants will choose a date, a bike and a one-hour time slot. Bring your own helmet or choose from those available during the event. Online registration is available.
DiversAbility Days
DiversAbility Days feature free outdoor adaptive recreation offerings at the following dates and times:
June 1 from 4-7 p.m. at McIntyre Park in Fort Gratiot. Enjoy archery and more. Cost: Free
June 18 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Normandy Oaks Park in Royal Oak. Enjoy the splash pad, archery, use of adaptive equipment and more, including a hot dog lunch. Cost: Free. Registration deadline: June 11
Aug. 5 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Lake St. Clair Metropark in Harrison Township. Enjoy archery, boat rides, use of adaptive equipment and more, including a hot dog lunch. Cost: $10/vehicle. Registration deadline: July 29
Aug. 13 from 4-7 p.m. at Independence Oaks County Park in Clarkston. Enjoy kayaking, boat rides, lawn games, use of adaptive equipment and more, including a hot dog lunch. Cost: Free. Registration deadline: Aug. 6
DiversAbility Days are presented by Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness, Oakland County Parks, Huron-Clinton Metroparks, Rehab Without Walls and Wheels in Motion. For questions, call or text 248-221-8040. Online registration is available.
Adaptive Kayaking
Learn to kayak during one-hour Adaptive Kayaking Sessions presented by the Rec-Connect: Adaptive Recreation & Wellness, Disability Network Eastern Michigan and Oakland County Parks. Kayaking sessions are scheduled as follows:
June 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in Port Huron
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.
Online registration is available. This event is sponsored by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Blue Care Network.