Burlingame State Park Campground spans over 700 sites spread across several designated camping areas near Bradford, Rhode Island. The extensive wooded grounds sit approximately 15 minutes from downtown Charlestown, offering multiple accommodation options including tent sites, RV hookups, cabins, and boutique glamping experiences. Water access at the property includes pond swimming with designated beach areas, though campers should note facilities vary significantly depending on which section they choose within this massive property.
What to do
Fishing at Rocky Neck State Park: This campground offers freshwater fishing opportunities at the campsite and salt water fishing near the beach. The park is located 30 minutes from Bradford in nearby Connecticut. "Good for families or couples," notes Rebecca D., while Jessica A. explains that you can "Fish in the pond (catch and release). Bike. Hike. Hammock."
Trail access at Niantic KOA: Located approximately 35 minutes from Bradford, this campground provides direct trail access to nearby beaches. "The best part of this campground was the proximity to the state beach via a well kept hiking trail," writes Nita D. The campground also offers a "complimentary shuttle into the town of Niantic" according to Lee D., making it convenient for visitors without vehicles.
Water activities at Hidden Acres Campground: Situated on the river approximately 40 minutes from Bradford, this campground offers multiple water-based activities. "We tubed down river, fished the pond, swam in the pool, did the hay ride, even attended the dance at night," reports Erik M., highlighting the variety of recreation options available to visitors during summer months.
What campers like
Spacious sites at Strawberry Park: Located about 30 minutes from Bradford, this campground features wide, relatively level sites. "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level," notes Michael C., who appreciated the convenient setup. The campground also offers "New fence poles show renovations were consistently done. Two easy dump stations with nice clean area."
Pond access at Odetah Camping Resort: For visitors seeking glamping close to Bradford, Rhode Island, this resort offers premium amenities including a scenic pond. "Great mix of seasonal and vacation campers. Nice river with small beach," writes Barbara P. The water features are a significant draw as another visitor notes: "The lake is great!! The pool area is a little small, but the attraction is the lake."
Clean facilities at Mystic KOA: Located approximately 20 minutes from Bradford, this KOA maintains well-kept facilities. "The campground staff did a great job managing the Covid regulations… We were able to use the pool, facilities and the store and never felt that we were compromised," reports Jenn, highlighting the cleanliness standards. Another camper mentioned "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," emphasizing the maintenance standards.
What you should know
Size considerations at Burlingame State Park Campground: With hundreds of sites, navigation can be challenging. "Hundreds of sites, some level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open, excellent for bikes, there are in-camp roads, so big you can get lost(sorta)," notes Andrew P., providing insight into the campground's layout. Jessica A. adds: "Burlingame is a HUGE state park campground with over 700 sites."
Bathroom quality varies: Several campgrounds near Bradford report inconsistent bathroom conditions. At Rocky Neck State Park, "Bathrooms were clean," according to Cendy G., but at Burlingame, "Bath houses are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross," reports Jessica A.
Weekend noise levels: Many campgrounds become busy and potentially noisy on weekends and holidays. At Burlingame State Park, "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," advises Jessica A.
Tips for camping with families
Activity scheduling at Ross Hill RV Park & Campground: Located about 35 minutes from Bradford, this campground offers river access for family recreation. "The campground is set on the Q River and if you're lucky enough to see it from your site it's beautiful," notes Glenn P., highlighting water views as a key feature for families.
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds near Bradford offer economical family camping options. At Burlingame State Park, Cendy G. notes 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."
Water activities for children: Family-friendly water features are available at multiple sites. Sunfox Campground offers "a beautiful pool, playground and a large jumping pillow like a huge trampoline you can't fall off of," according to Tara N., making it ideal for children of various ages.
Tips for RVers
Site selection at Odetah Camping Resort: For those seeking premium glamping near Bradford, Rhode Island, Odetah offers varied site types. "Most sites are even and good sized," notes Anne M., while another camper mentioned "We had two sites side by side for our group of 7 and two dogs. The staff will deliver wood right to your site."
Hookup availability: RVers should research utility options before booking. At Burlingame State Park, "No hook-ups, lol. This is a con in the heat of the summer if you want/need AC," reports Jessica A., advising summer visitors to prepare for limited services.
Access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. 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)," suggesting RVers plan accordingly during wet weather.
