The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) wants everyone to be able to enjoy the outdoors. We are upgrading facilities, adding specialized equipment, making inclusive programs, and working with the disability community to make our programs, parks and places better for everyone. TPWD complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and works to give people better access to nature.
Planning an Adventure
TPWD manages spaces that are not naturally accessible. Many facilities were built before today's standards. As we improve these spaces, updates are made to the individual site's webpage and to the TPWD Accessibility Updates Tracker. If you want to know about the accessibility of a site, email the TPWD ADA Coordinator's office or contact the site directly to ask.
Around the State
Learn about accessible programs and facilities at Texas State Parks on Accessibility at Texas State Parks.
Visit Sea Center Texas in Lake Jackson If marine biology interests you.
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is closed for renovations, including accessibility upgrades. Tentative reopening is spring 2025.
Permits and Passes
The Texas State Parks Parklands Passport has reduced entry rates for qualifying people with medical disabilities and one companion and free entry for disabled veterans..
Disabled veterans may qualify for reduced rates on hunting and fishing licenses.
Request a Modification
Do you need a modification to participate in an upcoming TPWD program or experience? Complete the ADA Modification Request Form at least 2 weeks before the date needed. TPWD may not be able to accommodate requests made less than 2 weeks before the date needed. For assistance completing the form contact the TPWD ADA Coordinator's office.
Access and Inclusion Solutions
Is there a TPWD service, program, or facility that you are unable to access to due to a disability? If so, please complete the TPWD ADA Access & Inclusion Solution Request Form. For assistance completing the form contact the TPWD ADA Coordinator’s office.
TPWD 2023 ADA Transition Plan
In 2023, TPWD published a 24-year plan detailing the accessibility status of each public facility, priorities for upgrades, and a general phased timeline.
Follow updates on ADA project status with the TPWD Accessibility Updates Tracker or view facility-specific reports.
Seeing Brighter Days
A legally blind hunter and TPWD accessibility employee living the life he loves.
Need more information about TPWD accessibility?
Jessica Burke - TPWD ADA Coordinator
4200 Smith School Road
Austin, Texas, 78744
(512) 298-9036 (voice or text)
Individuals with hearing loss may call Relay Texas toll free 7-1-1 or 1-800-RELAY-TX (1-800-735-2989).
accessibility@tpwd.texas.gov
TPWD Website Accessibility
TPWD is making this website accessible to the widest possible audience, including people who use assistive technology. For more information on electronic information resources, visit TPWD Accessibility Policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bring my service animal with me? Service animals are animals that have been individually trained to perform tasks for persons who have qualifying disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It is the policy of TPWD that service animals are allowed anywhere that the public is normally allowed to go. Some further restrictions may apply to protect environmental or cultural resources. Please contact the TPWD ADA office or the facility you are planning on visiting for current information.
Can I bring my emotional support animal (ESA) with me? ESAs are allowed anywhere that pets are allowed but are not considered service animals under the ADA. ESAs are not allowed anywhere that pets/animals are not allowed.
How do I request an ASL interpreter for a program? To request an ASL interpreter, large print, braille documents or any other modification needed to participate in a TPWD program or experience, complete the ADA Modification Request Form at least 2 weeks before the date needed or contact the ADA Coordinator's office.
How do I know if a facility or camp site will be accessible? Ask the TPWD ADA Coordinator’s office at least two weeks before your visit. We will do our best to give you the information you need, but weather, maintenance, and other conditions can affect sites. Visitors who need current or detailed information to plan a visit should contact the site directly.
Where can I drive my Other Power Driven Mobility Device (OPDMD)? In accordance with TPWD guidance documents, use of OPDMD's by individuals with mobility disabilities will be allowed in all appropriate locations, unless they:
- present a safety hazard to the user or other members of the public using the facility;
- will result in an adverse impact to natural or historic resources; or
- do not qualify as a motor vehicle or in violation of Texas Department of Transportation (TxDot) regulations.
Permits may be required for some devices, and registration may be required at the facility. Speed limits and other safety requirements may be established and shall be posted or included in permits. OPDMDs may be allowed during some periods but excluded during high-use periods. For example, they may be allowed on a specific path during weekdays but excluded on weekends when high visitation would make the path unsafe.
Submit a Modification Request Form or contact the site you plan to visit with your OPDMD at least two weeks in advance to find out when and where you can use your OPDMD.