Camping options near Block Island, Rhode Island range from beach-adjacent state parks to inland family-oriented campgrounds. Most sites within 15 miles of the Block Island Ferry require advance reservations during peak season from May through September. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, with July and August experiencing higher humidity levels that can affect tent campers without adequate ventilation.
What to do
Beach exploration near Charlestown Breachway: Steps away from camp spots, campers can access pristine beaches for swimming, surfing, and wildlife viewing. According to one camper, "There is a more 'private' sandy area near the water sites (close to sites 70's) where we were able to pull up a chair and sit in the water. Minimal waves and lots of people watching." The campground also provides a small boat ramp ideal for kayaking.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds near Block Island Sound provide excellent fishing access. At Charlestown Breachway State Park Campground, visitors can fish directly from shore. One visitor reported, "We were able to secure a spot at Charlestown Breachway in Charlestown, Rhode Island during peak season... There were many people fishing and reeling them in."
Day trips to historic sites: Located within 30-45 minutes of most campgrounds, sites like Fort Trumbull provide educational opportunities. At Crocker's Boatyard, a camper noted, "Sunday we went and visited Fort Trumbull which is also walking distance away. Very nice place to visit and learn. Also took a tour of the Coast Guard Ship at Fort Trumbull."
Ferry access to Block Island: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to the Block Island Ferry. One visitor at Fishermens Memorial noted it's "close to the ferry to Block Island" making it easy to enjoy a day trip without relocating your camping setup.
What campers like
Privacy levels at different sites: Camping areas vary widely in their spacing and privacy. At Burlingame State Park Campground, a reviewer explained, "Spacious - even with all those sites, there's plenty of room between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek."
Natural surroundings: Despite being in densely populated New England, many campgrounds maintain natural settings. One visitor to Wawaloam described it as a "Tuck in tiny RI" with a "Large but well laid out park... adults have all their needs met."
Pet-friendly policies: Many campgrounds welcome dogs with dedicated areas. At East Beach State Campground, a camper praised the "Mostly less developed beach area, peaceful shoreline with essential amenities" that allows pets in self-contained vehicles.
Waterfront access: Prime waterfront locations distinguish several campgrounds. A visitor at Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground described their experience: "Area One has the best views and full hookups... One (bunker) is a grassy knoll with stairs to a lookout."
What you should know
Site selection considerations: Choosing the right campground section can significantly impact your experience. At Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground, "There are four areas, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Area One has the best views and full hookups but there is no bathhouse; Area Two also has full hookups, no view and some of the sites (55-65) are decidedly not level."
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance planning. For Hither Hills State Park, a camper advised, "We were super lucky to get in for Memorial Day weekend" while another noted you "need to reserve about 1 year in advance."
Noise considerations: Various noise sources can affect campsites. At Fishermens Memorial, "Road noise continued throughout the night and there is a wind turbine on the property... the road noise bothered me more."
Bathroom facilities: Bathroom quality varies significantly between campgrounds. At Mystic KOA, visitors praise the "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground" while at more rustic sites like Charlestown Breachway, limited facilities mean "Only trash and outhouses" are available.
Tips for camping with families
Activity-focused campgrounds: For families with children, select campgrounds with dedicated facilities. Wawaloam Campground received praise as "kid heaven. Families laughing & enjoying themselves. Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing."
Dog-friendly campgrounds near Block Island: When traveling with pets, verify specific requirements. At East Beach State Campground, "Camping here REQUIRES a self contained vehicle, please respect the nature of this beach and pack out everything you pack in."
Space considerations: For families needing room to spread out, consider site spacing. At Wawaloam Campground, one visitor noted their site was "private, a great size & has water/electric. We had good cover on our site & the area our site was in was super quiet."
Budget-friendly options: State parks typically offer better value. At Burlingame State Park, a camper noted it's "Very affordable (around $14 per night). We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV services vary widely between campgrounds. At Hither Hills State Park Campground, a camper noted they "Had to take a star off for no hookups. Generator hours are limited. There are spigots located down the middle of the rows. Go on google maps to find a spot near a spigot."
Cell reception considerations: Digital connectivity varies by location. At Hither Hills, "Cell signal varies wildly by spot. B17 no prob at all. G14 spotty. F20 total dead zone."
Generator restrictions: Many campgrounds limit generator usage. At Charlestown Breachway, "The campground only allows generators to be run from 0800-2000. Even though it was in the high 80's, we barely ran the generator during the day. There was such a nice breeze."
Self-contained requirements: Some pet-friendly camping areas near Block Island have specific vehicle requirements. At East Beach and Charlestown Breachway, campers must have self-contained systems, as one visitor noted, "No running water. No electricity hookup. No dump station. Only trash and outhouses."
