Outdoor Developed Areas: A Summary of Accessibility Standards for Federal Outdoor Developed Areas

Tent Pads and Tent Platforms [1013]

Tent pads and tent platforms are defined spaces with prepared surfaces for setting up and securing tents. No minimum tent pad size is specified because the types of tents commonly used in camping facilities can vary depending on the setting. For example, small tents may be used at a camping facility near a wilderness access point, while large family tents may be used at a more developed camping facility with numerous constructed features. Tent pads and tent platforms must comply with the technical requirements for clear ground space and slope. Tent platforms must also comply with the technical requirements for height.

Exception [1013.1, Exception]

When a condition for exception does not permit full compliance with a specific provision in the technical requirements for tent pads and tent platforms, the tent pads and tent platforms must comply with the specific provision to the extent practicable. Additional information on the conditions for exceptions is provided in the section of this guide on the conditions for exceptions.

Clear Ground Space [1013.2]

A clear ground space at least 48 inches wide must be provided on all usable sides of tent pads and tent platforms. This clear ground space enables people using mobility devices to set up and take down a tent (figure 28). The usable sides of tent pads and tent platforms are the sides that can be used for setting up and taking down a tent. All sides of tent pads and tent platforms are generally usable, unless the tent pad or tent platform is located next to a natural feature, such as a rock or tree, that renders a side unusable. The surface of the clear ground space must be firm and stable, but must also accommodate the use of tent stakes or other devices to secure the tent.

Figure 28—Clear space requirements for tent pads and platforms.

Slope [1013.3]

When the surface of tent pads, tent platforms, and clear ground spaces is constructed of materials other than asphalt, concrete, or boards, the surface must be no steeper than 1:48 (2 percent) in any direction. When the surface is constructed of materials other than asphalt, concrete, or boards, slopes no steeper than 1:20 (5 percent) are allowed when necessary for drainage.

Floor Height [1013.4]

If the tent platform floor is raised above grade, the floor height must be no more than 19 inches when measured from the clear ground space to the tent platform surface. This height allows people using mobility devices to transfer from the device to the platform surface.