Illinois River Accessible Water Access Project (R.A.M.P.)
The Illinois River Accessible Water Access Project (R.A.M.P.) is a community-led initiative focused on expanding inclusive outdoor recreation in the Illinois Valley through the development of a seasonal, ADA-compliant river access point at Forks State Park, located just south of Cave Junction, Oregon.
The project’s mission is to ensure that individuals of all abilities can safely experience the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Illinois River while protecting the river’s ecological environment.
Project Vision and Goals
The goal of the Illinois River Accessible Water Access Project is to provide equitable, inclusive access to the river for people who may otherwise be excluded due to steep or uneven riverbanks, including individuals with disabilities, older adults, families with young children, and others with mobility challenges.
By enhancing accessibility, the project seeks to:
- Expand inclusive outdoor recreation
- Support environmental education
- Improve access for visitors to the Illinois Valley
- Honor the historic and cultural connection to the river
The project is being designed as a replicable model that other rural communities can adapt for their own accessible recreation efforts.
Project Status and Planning Phase
The project is currently in its early planning phase and is applying for the Travel Oregon Recreation Ready Grant, which would support the technical and logistical groundwork required for a project of this scale.
A local steering committee is guiding the project. The committee includes a mix of:
- Seasoned project managers
- Land managers
- Recreation businesses
- People with lived experience using mobility devices
This collaborative leadership structure ensures that accessibility, feasibility, and environmental responsibility are central to planning decisions.
Seasonal Design and Environmental Stewardship
The proposed river access is envisioned as a seasonal structure designed to:
- Provide ADA-compliant access during appropriate use periods
- Minimize ecological disturbance
- Protect riverbanks, habitat, and water quality
Design development will be informed by accessibility and environmental experts and will prioritize:
- User safety
- Erosion control
- Habitat preservation
- Responsible materials and installation methods
IVCanDO’s Role
IVCanDO is serving as the fiscal sponsor for the Illinois River Accessible Water Access Project.
IVCanDO has held the Adopt-a-Park agreement for Forks State Park since 2012 and has supported long-term community efforts to restore and improve the park. Fiscal sponsorship provides organizational structure and early-stage support while the project remains community-led.
Learn More
For more information about the project or planning process, contact:
Lindsey B. Jones
Executive Director, IVCanDO
📧 info@ivcdo.org
📞 541-592-4440
