Highlights of a trip to Bonnechere Provincial Park often include visiting the beach and taking a dip in the sparkling waters of Round Lake.
Until recently, enjoying these and other activities in the park could be challenging for those using a wheelchair or walker.
This past year, as part of Ontario Parks’ commitment to making our parks as accessible as possible, Bonnechere staff surveyed the park and after identifying potential barriers, put together a plan to remove them.
On June 2, 2018, Bonnechere staff and the Friends of Bonnechere Park hosted a collaborative event (Show You Care for Bonnechere 2.0 — New PossABILITIES) to put the park’s accessibility plan into motion.
Many volunteers showed they care
With the help of approximately 35 volunteers, Bonnechere is now more accessible than ever.
The resulting park improvements include:
- hard packed day use trails
- wheelchair accessible picnic tables
- wheelchair accessible campsites
- wheelchair accessible parking spaces
- wireless alert systems
- barrier-free office
- barrier-free store
- barrier-free comfort station
- barrier-free vault toilet
- beach access mats
Beach fun for all!
Our newly installed beach access mats help all visitors enjoy the beach and get right down to the water’s edge. For someone who uses a wheelchair or walker, navigating the soft sand on a beach can be difficult, but these new non-slip beach mats allow for easier movement with walkers, wheelchairs, and parents with strollers.
The park also acquired two “WaterWheels.” These all-terrain, floating wheelchairs enable individuals with physical limitations to relax and enjoy the water with family and friends.
The WaterWheels are available throughout the operating season at the Davenport Centre/Park Store for visitors to sign out, free of cost.
This opportunity was made possible through a government accessibility grant obtained by the Friends of Bonnechere, and in partnership with WheelChair Friendly Solutions Inc.
We are so excited to create an atmosphere of respect, equality and independence that’s welcoming to everyone!