ADA Accessibility in the Glamping Industry
ADA accessibility in the outdoor hospitality industry is an important topic that many people may not think about when planning their vacations and outdoor adventures— but it’s one of the most common questions we get from new or aspiring glamping operators. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including in places of accommodation and recreation. This includes outdoor hospitality facilities such as campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping operations.
By making your outdoor hospitality facility ADA compliant, you can provide equal access and opportunities for people with disabilities to enjoy the great outdoors and all that your facility has to offer.
Some simple steps you can take to make your outdoor hospitality facility more accessible for people with disabilities include:
Providing accessible parking spaces and clear and well-lit paths of travel to the entrance of your facility.
Making sure that doorways are wide enough for wheelchair users, and that door handles and other door hardware are easy to use.
Providing accessible restrooms and shower facilities that are equipped with grab bars, roll-in showers, and other features to make them easier to use for people with disabilities.
Ensuring that your facility has accessible seating and tables in common areas, as well as in dining and recreational areas.
Providing accessible cabins, tents, or other types of accommodation that meet the needs of people with disabilities.
In addition to these physical accessibility measures, it is also important to provide information and assistance to people with disabilities in a way that meets their needs. This may include providing information about the facility and its amenities in accessible formats such as large print or audio, as well as offering personal assistance with making reservations and accessing amenities.
Offer a variety of accessible activities
It is also important to offer a range of activities that are accessible to people with disabilities. This may include providing adaptive equipment for activities such as kayaking or fishing, or offering guided tours that are accessible to people with mobility impairments.
Make your website accessible
Your website is often the first point of contact for potential guests, so it is important to make sure it is accessible to people with disabilities. This includes using clear and easy-to-read fonts, providing alt text for images, and ensuring that the site is compatible with screen readers.
Train your staff on disability awareness and customer service
Your staff plays a crucial role in ensuring that your facility is welcoming and inclusive for all of your guests. Providing training on disability awareness and customer service can help your staff understand the needs of people with disabilities and provide the best possible experience for all of your guests.
Provide additional resources and accommodations
Depending on the needs of your guests, you may need to provide additional resources and accommodations to ensure that they have a positive experience at your facility. This may include providing sign language interpreters, visual fire alarms, or other specialized equipment or services.
By taking these steps and being proactive about ensuring that your outdoor hospitality facility is accessible for people with disabilities, you can create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all of your guests. This not only benefits people with disabilities, it also helps to create a more diverse and welcoming community at your facility.
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