Burlingame State Park Campground in Charlestown, Rhode Island offers 700+ campsites with hiking trails, pond swimming, and fishing opportunities within 30 minutes of Pawcatuck. The park provides primitive camping with no hookups at affordable rates, typically $14-$20 per night depending on residency status. The terrain features both wooded and open grass sites with varying levels of shade and privacy.
What to do
Pond activities: The small beach area at Burlingame State Park Campground provides swimming and fishing options. "Bike for ever and go to the lake! Camp store literally has anything you would need," notes Madeline H., who recommends preparing for sand. Katelain T. mentions the "cute little beach" is dog-friendly, adding another recreation option.
Biking trails: Extensive networks of trails and camp roads make biking a primary activity in the region. Andrew P. describes Burlingame as "so big you can get lost(sorta)" with various in-camp roads perfect for exploration. Sites are situated to allow easy access to trails from most campsites.
Family arcade time: Several campgrounds maintain game rooms and recreational facilities for rainy days. Cendy G. highlights Burlingame's offerings: "Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking. Bathrooms were clean." The camp store typically stocks essentials if you forget items.
What campers like
Large, forested settings: Rocky Neck State Park Campground provides a traditional camping experience with fire rings and wooded sites. "Sites are nice, there is a dumping station and some great sites for group camping," explains Michelle D., though she cautions the beach "can be crowded, so get there early."
Affordability: State parks offer some of the most budget-friendly yurt camping near Pawcatuck, Connecticut. "Very affordable (around $14 per night)," reports Cendy G. about Burlingame. Several campgrounds maintain tiered pricing with Connecticut and Rhode Island residents receiving discounts at state facilities.
Access to beaches: Most campgrounds provide direct beach access or are within short driving distance. "Beautiful campground right near the beach. Hiking trails along the coast line," writes Timothy R. about Rocky Neck. Mauricio R. adds the campsite is "only a short walk from the beach and available mountain bike and hiking trails."
What you should know
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility cleanliness fluctuates dramatically based on season and occupancy levels. Jessica A. warns about Burlingame: "Bath houses are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross." She recommends bringing "hand soap (they no longer provide any), paper towels, and Clorox wipes."
Site selection matters: Choosing the right location within campgrounds significantly impacts experience quality. "If you want a good visit do not stay down by the lake!!!" advises David M. about Burlingame. At Hidden Acres Campground, Erik M. recommends sites "scattered along the river" for the best experience.
Weekend crowds: Most campgrounds reach capacity during summer weekends, particularly holidays. Jessica A. cautions: "On the weekends people can get out of hand with the partying and it's not uncommon to have to listen to noise late into the night. Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Sunfox Campground caters specifically to families with young children. "This is a quant campground geared towards families being out together. They have a beautiful pool, playground and a large jumping pillow like a huge trampoline you can't fall off of," explains Tara N. about the kid-focused amenities.
River tubing: Sites along waterways provide natural recreation options. Erik M. describes Hidden Acres: "We tubed down river, fished the pond, swam in the pool, did the hay ride, even attended the dance at night. Definitely be sure to grab a snack at the food hit they have."
Location considerations: Some campgrounds offer quieter, more secluded options for families seeking less crowded experiences. Claire M. describes Sunfox as "situated in a beautiful valley with a little pond, hiking trails, playground, jumping pillow, swimming pool and hot tub. Owner is very involved, energetic, and friendly. There are events for the kids every weekend."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Ross Hill RV Park & Campground offers numerous water-view sites along the Quinebaug River. Glenn P. notes: "If you're lucky enough to see it from your site it's beautiful. The campground CAN get packed but everyone is polite and we've never had a problem." He also mentions the office will help you change sites if needed.
Water access: Several campgrounds provide water-based recreation directly from RV sites. "There is good fishing on the pond, mini-golf, pool and splash pad, etc. Kids are not bored here! Most sites are even and good sized," reports Anne M. about Odetah Camping Resort.
Road considerations: Many access roads can become challenging during wet weather. At Niantic KOA, Lee D. notes: "Unmaintained roadways. The main one was once paved but has not been maintained; others were dirt (and mud after a rain)." Plan accordingly with proper tires and traction aids during spring camping.
