No, the national parks have equal access already, anyone can pay and enter, regardless of if they have a disability or not. What the National Parks offer is free access with proof of disability because there are many trails and such that simply cannot be made accessible. Because there is a monetary value here they can require proof since there is already a system in place that provides the same access at the same cost. The National Parks are simply being nice because they understand that those with disabilities won't be able to fully enjoy the parks, they technically would not have to do this, as even the ADA does state that if something absolutely cannot be made accessible it can be exempt, especially naturally occurring barriers.That's exactly the opposite of how the National Parks access is done. Are you sure you are correct, because to me it sounds like you have it backwards.
I'm thinking you misunderstood what I was saying though:
- There must always be equal accommodations made whenever possible and without the need for proof.
- Proof can be required if there is an accommodation made available that is above and beyond what others can get at the same cost, especially if there is a monetary value involved.
- For example, if you go to ride a bus and are using a mobility device, they are required to let you on, but can charge you the full fare. But many municipalities will offer free or reduced fare if you provide proof of disability.
So for say a theme park, they would have to provide a free option that doesn't require proof, say like how the DAS works.
Let's look at Universal as an example, they have a Return Time Pass that is available with no documentation.
But if they decided to do so, they could also offer a free or discounted Express Pass to those with disabilities if they provide proof of disability. Please note Universal doesn't currently do this, I am just using this as an example of what would be allowed to require proof of disability and what wouldn't. But they would be required to offer an option that doesn't require a doctors note and at no cost above and beyond what everyone else can pay to get access to a location.