THE BARRIERS TO NATURAL OUTDOOR SPACES: PERSPECTIVES FROM PEOPLE WITH MOBILITY DISABILITIES

Past research has predominantly examined the accessibility challenges encountered in built environments, particularly in urban parks and playgrounds. However, there is a gap in understanding the experiences of individuals with mobility disabilities in natural outdoor spaces, particularly state and national parks (SNPs). This study aims to address this gap by investigating the experiences of individuals with mobility disabilities within SNPs. Through qualitative data collection methods, including in-depth interviews, this research explores the perspectives of seven individuals who have visited SNPs in the past decade. The major findings covered a range of topics, including demographics, personal experiences, transportation barriers, infrastructure accessibility, societal attitudes, and the availability of information related to accessibility within SNPs. By capturing firsthand accounts and insights from individuals with mobility disabilities, this study contributes to a better understanding of the accessibility challenges and opportunities within natural outdoor environments, with implications for policy, design, and management practices aimed at enhancing accessibility and inclusion in SNPs.