At Hipcamp, we’re committed to accessibility, diversity and inclusion. So whether you are using the website or mobile application to book a stay, or are staying at the site of your choice, Hipcamp and Hosts are committed to providing you the highest level of service they can.
To that end, we have created the following policies to improve the Hipcamp experience for Hipcampers with accessibility needs.
Nondiscrimination Policy
One of Hipcamp’s core values is to Build Resilient Communities. To achieve this, we intentionally create an environment of trust and respect, one that fosters inclusivity and safety. We elevate and protect diversity as a strength of nature and those who explore it. Discrimination does not support our endeavor to build resilient communities and does not belong on Hipcamp. Please see Hipcamp’s Inclusion Policy for more information.
Sites and Bookings
Hosts and Hipcampers are expected to treat each other equally and with respect. This includes refraining from language that can be harmful, such as regarding a Host’s or Hipcamper’s disability or service animal.
The following explains Hipcamp’s accessibility policies regarding sites and bookings.
Can a Host deny a booking due to a Hipcamper’s accessibility needs?
No. Hosts may not deny or cancel a booking because a Hipcamper requires an assistance animal or accessibility assistance.
Can a Host add fees to a booking because of a Hipcamper’s accessibility needs?
No, Hosts may not charge extra fees for service animals or to otherwise reasonably accommodate accessibility needs.
How can I check if a site is Wheelchair Accessible?
At Hipcamp, we believe that everyone has the right to get outside and enjoy nature! Here’s how you can filter for wheelchair-accessible places so you or your loved one can get outside!
On the Website
- Visit hipcamp.com
- Search for the location you would like to camp
- Click on More Filters
- Check the Wheelchair Accessible box
- Click on Show Camps
On the App
- Launch the app
- Search for the location you would like to camp
- Tap on Filters
- Toggle on Wheelchair Accessible filter
How can a Hipcamper request a reasonable accommodation for a trip?
Hipcampers are encouraged to request reasonable accommodations to maximize their trip experience.
If possible, Hipcampers should make a request for a reasonable accessibility accommodation from a Host during the booking process. If that’s not feasible, then the request should be made as soon as possible during the trip.
The Host and Hipcamper should communicate regarding the request, and Hosts should grant any requests that are reasonable (for example, physically showing Hipcampers where any tripping hazards may exist).
Website and mobile application accessibility.
Hipcamp is committed to facilitating the accessibility and usability of its website and mobile application for all people. To that end, Hipcamp is in the process of implementing functional improvements to the website and mobile application consistent with relevant portions of the World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 Level AA (“WCAG 2.1 AA”). You can find additional information about WCAG 2.1 AA here: WCAG 2.1 AA.
What about Service Animals?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and The Assistance animals and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) define a service animal as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability.
Only dogs are recognized as service animals under titles II and III of the ADA.
At Hipcamp, we understand that service animals are not the same as pets, and we require that Hosts accept bookings with service animals. We encourage Hipcampers to let the Host know of their service animal before booking, and Hosts are expected to accommodate bookings where a service animal will be present, even if their rules state "no pets".
As many people use service animals to fully participate in everyday life, these animals are not subject to extra fees at Hipcamp. In addition, it is illegal in the United States to require documentation for a service animal.
A Host may ask a Hipcamper to remove a service animal if that animal is out of control or not housebroken. Given their role, it is important to note that service animals are not to be left alone at a Hipcamp, and Hosts are not responsible for caring for the service animal.
Hipcamp recognizes the importance of emotional support animals, but we do not require that Hosts accept bookings with emotional support animals. Emotional support animals are defined as animals that provide comfort just by being with a person; they are not trained to perform a specific job or task and do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. However, some state and local governments have laws that allow people to take emotional support animals into spaces otherwise reserved for service animals, so Hosts are should be compliant with any laws that might apply to their location.
Service Providers
In some situations, a Hipcamper may require an individual to provide assistance during a trip, such as an interpreter or personal care assistance. These service providers may provide support for Hipcampers during a trip in many ways, including interpreting for Hipcampers who are deaf or hard of hearing, provide Hipcampers assistance with activities of daily living, help the Hipcamper move around the camping location, or assist Hipcampers with medical care. Service providers that accompany a Hipcamper during a trip are not a family member or friend who is there just to enjoy a trip; rather, they must be required to assist a Hipcamper with a disability.
When booking a trip with a service provider, Hipcampers should contact the Host to discuss the arrangement and provide any relevant details.
How Hipcampers can request help
If you experience conduct that you believe violates our Accessibility policies or require further assistance with your accessibility needs, please contact us through this form.