Cabins near Block Island, Rhode Island range from basic rustic structures to more comfortable lodgings within state parks and private campgrounds. Block Island itself, located 13 miles off the Rhode Island coast, experiences a maritime climate with average summer temperatures between 70-80°F and cooler evenings around 65°F. Most cabin rentals in the region require advanced planning as they're concentrated on the mainland in areas with convenient ferry access to Block Island.
What to do
Fishing and water recreation: At Hopeville Pond State Park Campground, visitors can launch kayaks from several points. "From here, we paddled south to the end of the pond and up the Pachaug River, eventually reaching the dam at Pachaug Pond. It's an 8 mile paddle with some tricky spots to navigate, but very pretty!" according to one visitor. The park also offers fishing opportunities, though be aware that "the pond has some really big fish, but it's heavily covered with lily pads and there are a lot of submerged trees."
Beach activities: Most cabin facilities are within a 30-minute drive of ocean beaches. "The location is fantastic, but with this many sites (so, with this many people), there are bound to be pros and cons," notes a visitor about Burlingame State Park Campground. "Lovely location - it's in the middle of the woods, has a pond, has pond swimming. It's just minutes to the ocean by car. Hiking and biking for miles."
Biking trails: Many campgrounds feature internal roads and nearby trails perfect for cycling. "Excellent for bikes, there are in-camp roads, so big you can get lost(sorta)," reports a camper about Burlingame. The size of some parks creates an extensive network of biking opportunities without having to leave the grounds.
What campers like
Natural setting: Cabin campers appreciate the wooded environments at many locations. "The sites in this loop offer more privacy," explains a visitor to Hopeville Pond about the F Loop. This section is separate from waterfront areas and offers a more secluded experience.
Pond access: East Beach State Campground provides direct beach access with minimal development. "Mostly less developed beach area, peaceful shoreline with essential amenities," notes one visitor. However, be prepared for self-sufficiency as the reviewer reminds that camping here "REQUIRES a self contained vehicle, please respect the nature of this beach and pack out everything you pack in."
Camp stores: Having supplies available on-site is a convenience many appreciate. "Camp store literally has anything you would need," mentions a camper about Burlingame State Park. This access to supplies can be crucial when staying in more basic cabins that require bringing your own equipment.
What you should know
Bathroom facilities: Quality and cleanliness vary significantly between locations. At Rocky Neck State Park Campground, "Bathhouses and toilets were not as cleaned as I would have liked but passable," reports one visitor. Sites include "one paved parking spot (ours was very muddy) a fire pit and a picnic table. No water or electric hookup."
Seasonal operations: Most cabin facilities operate on limited schedules. "This state park has a campground and a separate day use area for swimming and picnicking," explains a Hopeville Pond visitor. Many Rhode Island and Connecticut state parks with cabins close for the winter months, typically operating from May through September.
Site spacing: Privacy between cabins varies by location. "Unfriendly staff - camp is way too big for my taste - it's mass camping," reports a dissatisfied visitor to Ashaway RV Resort. Another noted, "The sites are VERY close, but the people are nice and we had a great stay."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Whispering Pines Campground offers structured recreation for younger visitors. "Great privately owned family campground. The pool, splash pad, live music and activities for the kids were great!" reports a camper. Families should check activity schedules when booking cabin stays.
Weather preparedness: Even summer conditions can include rain. One visitor to Whispering Pines noted: "I believe we camped there too early in the season to fully enjoy the grounds. The pool, splash pad, and nearly everything else was non operational or locked up still." Check with campgrounds about which amenities are available during your planned visit.
Quieter sections: For families seeking less crowded environments, specific loop selection matters. "If you want a good visit do not stay down by the lake!!!" advises a Burlingame visitor, suggesting that waterfront areas might be noisier or more congested than other sections of the park.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: At Strawberry Park, RVers will find varied site configurations. "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level," reports one visitor. However, other campgrounds may have tighter spaces, as a different visitor noted that "Camp spaces are tight" at the same location.
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary by campground and even within the same property. "Some sites have water and electric hookups, but the majority of the sites have no utilities," explains a Hopeville Pond visitor. RVers should confirm specific site amenities when booking.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds with cabin rentals also accommodate RVs and provide waste disposal facilities. "There are two dumping spots each with two dumps," notes a Burlingame visitor. This information is important for those planning longer stays or traveling between multiple campgrounds.
