Camping near Chepachet, Rhode Island offers a mix of state-operated and privately managed campgrounds across western Rhode Island and eastern Connecticut. The area sits within the 400-square-mile watershed region of the Blackstone River Valley at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level. Most campgrounds in the region remain open from April through October, though water systems at many locations are winterized after the first frost.
What to do
Hiking trails: George Washington State Campground provides extensive trail options. "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded. There's fishing and hiking right in the park," notes Nick S. in his review of George Washington State Campground.
Disc golf courses: West Thompson Lake Campground features a complete course. "We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property. Once the boat races finished each day the camp was very quiet and peaceful," reports Jason L. about his experience at West Thompson Lake Campground.
Kayaking and canoeing: The waterways around Chepachet provide paddling opportunities. "We've camped here twice so far and can't wait to be back. This campground is very small and quiet, but the lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings," explains Cynthia K. about West Thompson Lake.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded spots. "This is a nice family campground. We're at site Red 24 and it's very secluded and flat. This site is right next to the state park that's nearby, so it's fairly quiet," reports Taylor B. about Bowdish Lake Camping Area.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms rate highly among campers. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds," shares Nick P. about George Washington State Campground.
Affordable options: Some campgrounds offer reasonable rates for shorter stays. "Called on Sunday morning and reserved a spot for 2 nights. Was very helpful on the phone, though was not informed that on Sunday the office and store closes early at 3 but was still able to check in easy enough. Clean bath house and restrooms, quiet despite there being a pretty full park. Overall not bad for the off season cost of $30," notes Kwan C. about Stateline Campresort.
What you should know
Electrical connections: Check the condition of power hookups at older campgrounds. "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!! We learned the hard way after staying Memorial day weekend. We had site C-16, and the way they have the power and water arrangement, we had to run 50ft of hose and 30 amp cord," warns Bruce Y. about Holiday Acres Campground.
Site location matters: Interior sites typically offer more quiet and privacy than those near entrance roads. "It is very noisy, the road has heavy traffic. I was disappointed that I picked a hike in site and it sounded like I was camped on the side of a highway," mentions Jessica W. about her George Washington State Campground experience.
Swimming restrictions: Not all water features permit swimming. "The lake is pretty but you cannot swim or eat the fish. There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course," notes Deborah B. about West Thompson Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Some campgrounds offer swimming pools for children. "Cute quiet place with a lake. Family run very friendly. They only thing I didn't love is they remodeled one set of bathrooms in the back and the front was the old set. They are gross my kids wouldn't use them," shares Jarrett F. about Sutton Falls Camping Area.
Recreation facilities: Basketball courts and playgrounds provide additional activities. "Large campsites, Nice basketball court, Decent bathrooms for a state campground, only complaint is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm," mentions Cameron F. about West Thompson Lake Campground.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. "Very clean campground with a big pool and pond to fish at. They always easy to make accommodations and it's always a good time with the family there," states David P. about Stateline Campresort.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Some sites require work to position RVs properly. "We stayed a week. No issues with water, sewer, electric, and cable. I was on site 87 and was able to level on the first try. The campground is a little tight with a big rig (40' motorhome pulling a vehicle on a dolly)," shares Rick C. about Circle Campground Farm.
Access considerations: Covered bridges and narrow roads may present challenges for larger rigs. "There's a covered bridge that scared me a little due to size concerns but it's quite tall and wide enough. Our rig is 11'9" to the top of the A/C and we had no issues," explains Sean about Sutton Falls Camping Area.
Seasonal rates: Non-resident fees can be higher at state facilities. "Nice campground with big private spots. Nice bathhouse with pay showers. Pretty, man made lake with a beach area for swimming and paddling. Cons: no hook-ups yet it cost $36 for out of state residents plus the fees which put it up to $44," reports Michelle H. about George Washington State Campground.
