Adirondacks' Accessible John Dillon Park Closed for 2026 Season

Water system issues force temporary closure of pioneering inclusive wilderness park.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 2:39pm

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John Dillon Park, the first park in the nation designed to make the Adirondack wilderness fully accessible for people with disabilities, will not open for the 2026 summer season due to problems with the park's potable water system. Paul Smith's College, which manages the park, says an ultraviolet light system meant to sterilize water 'has not performed as needed,' and the state Department of Health is requiring a new chlorination system to be installed to ensure the park's water is safe.

Why it matters

John Dillon Park was created to provide an inclusive outdoor experience in the Adirondacks, a region known for its natural beauty but also its rugged terrain that can be challenging for those with disabilities. The temporary closure of this pioneering park is a setback for accessibility in the Adirondacks, though the college says it is reviewing operations with the goal of reopening the park in the future.

The details

Located on 198 acres in Long Lake, New York, John Dillon Park includes miles of accessible trails, picnic sites, and lean-tos that are accessible by ramp or wheelchair transfer. The park was established in 2006 through an endowment from the late John Dillon, a Paul Smith's College alumnus and former International Paper CEO. When open, the park is free for day and overnight visitors.

  • John Dillon Park will not open for the 2026 summer season.
  • The park has been closed due to issues with the potable water system that require a new chlorination system to be installed.

The players

Paul Smith's College

The college that manages John Dillon Park.

Ben Brosseau

The director of communications at Paul Smith's College.

John Dillon

The late Paul Smith's alumnus and former International Paper CEO whose endowment created the accessible John Dillon Park.

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What they’re saying

“We are currently conducting a thorough review of operations at the park and look forward to sharing a concrete timeline later this year.”

— Ben Brosseau, Director of Communications, Paul Smith's College

What’s next

Paul Smith's College says it is reviewing operations at John Dillon Park and plans to share a timeline for the park's potential reopening later in 2026.

The takeaway

The temporary closure of John Dillon Park, the nation's first fully accessible wilderness park, is a setback for inclusive outdoor recreation in the Adirondacks. However, the college's commitment to addressing the water system issues and reviewing operations suggests the park could reopen in the future, restoring this unique opportunity for people of all abilities to experience the region's natural beauty.