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International Paper John Dillon Park, a 15,800-acre conservation
easement, is the first wilderness area with facilities specially
designed to accommodate people with disabilities, thanks to
a partnership between International Paper (IP), Paul Smith’s
College, and the state of New York.
The park, valued at $2.6 million, is located in the central
Adirondack Mountains and features four beautiful lakes. The
adaptive facilities are on 200 forested acres within the park
next to Grampus Lake, near the town of Long Lake.
While many parks offer accessible restrooms and walkways,
rarely are remote wilderness areas available to those with
disabilities. The park was designed to meet that need, providing
disabled access and facilities for camping, fishing, and enjoying
nature in the Adirondack wilderness.
Amenities include a welcome center, nine Adirondack lean-tos
for camping, and an amphitheater, plus more than three miles
of trails built to the standards set by the Americans with
Disabilities Act. Scenic points along the trails highlight
nesting ospreys, a waterfall, a wetland boardwalk, and hardwood
and pine forest areas. Lakeside docks are also available for
observation, fishing, and launching kayaks or canoes.
International Paper John Dillon Park also presents a unique
educational partnership for students of Paul Smith’s
College who will manage and maintain the facility. A $1.5
million endowment has been created to support a curriculum
at the school that will give students hands-on learning experience
in managing outdoor recreation for people with disabilities,
while learning about forest management and conservation through
the college’s forestry and recreation programs.
CAOO Board members and Heritage Christian Services paddlers
enjoyed paddling on Grampus Lake and attending the Grand Opening
ceremonies for the International Paper John Dillon Park.
Paddlers from left are: Jan Whitaker, Marcia Burke, Amee Reinhardt,
Vonnie Richardson, Melissa Young, Esther Donner, and Beth
Taylor.
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