Expanding Accessibility with Adult-Sized Changing Tables

Tennessee State Parks Conservancy Inspires Giving to Ensure Everyone Can Enjoy the Outdoors

In December 2024, Tennessee State Parks proudly announced the expanding of accessibility by installing adult-sized changing tables at four additional state parks. These vital additions bring the total number of parks equipped with the tables to 10, enhancing accessibility for individuals of all abilities and their caregivers.

The newly equipped parks include:

• Johnsonville State Historic Park
• Montgomery Bell State Park
• Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park
• Red Clay State Historic Park

Previously announced parks with adult-sized changing tables include:

• Fall Creek Falls State Park
• Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
• Natchez Trace State Park
• Paris Landing State Park
• Pickwick Landing State Park
• Reelfoot Lake State Park

Why These Tables Matter

For many families, visiting the outdoors can present challenges. Adult-sized changing tables help remove barriers, offering dignified, practical solutions for toileting needs for adults, teens, and children with disabilities. These tables are fully adjustable, lowering to 12 inches and raising to 39.5 inches for ease of use. With this addition, caregivers can confidently plan trips to these state parks, knowing their loved ones’ needs are supported.

Greer Tidwell, Deputy Commissioner for Conservation at the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, shared, “This is another step toward making our state parks welcoming and inviting to all. These adult-sized changing tables provide visitors with the dignity they deserve and an opportunity to enjoy the parks in a way that they might not have had otherwise.”

The Role of the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy

The Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, a key funding partner for these installations, remains steadfast in its mission to make Tennessee’s natural spaces accessible to everyone. With one in three adults and 5% of Tennessee children living with a disability, creating inclusive outdoor experiences has never been more essential.

Alex Wyss, Executive Director of the Conservancy, emphasized, “We are committed to ensuring that everyone—regardless of age or ability—can explore, enjoy, and connect with nature. These changing tables are a step toward making our beautiful parks more inclusive for all.”

How Partnerships Are Changing Lives

The installation of these tables was made possible through meaningful partnerships:

• Johnsonville State Historic Park and Nathan Bedford Forrest State Park: Funded by the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, TVA grants, and state infrastructure funding.
• Red Clay State Historic Park: Funded by the Conservancy, TVA’s East Region, and state appropriations.
• Montgomery Bell State Park: Funded by state appropriations.

Gary Harris, TVA’s Director of Community and Government Relations for the North Region, noted, “Ensuring that adults, children, and teens of all abilities can enjoy our beautiful state parks aligns perfectly with TVA’s mission of service. We are proud to partner with Tennessee State Parks to provide these essential resources.”

Why Your Support Matters

Additions like adult-sized changing tables are more than just amenities—they are opportunities. For families and individuals with disabilities, these tables represent the ability to experience the beauty of Tennessee’s parks without limitations. With your support, we can continue funding transformative projects that allow everyone to enjoy the outdoors.

Brad Turner, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging, reinforced the importance of these additions, stating, “Regardless of age or ability, everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty and adventure of Tennessee State Parks.”

Join us in building an inclusive future. Your support helps the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy make state parks accessible to all visitors. Donations fund projects that create inclusive, meaningful connections to nature for those most need it.

We are here to help build the most accessible state parks system in the nation. Together, we can remove barriers so everyone can explore, adventure, and find peace in Tennessee’s great outdoors.