George Washington State Campground features secluded, wooded sites within a 4,000-acre state management area of Rhode Island's northwest corner, where elevation ranges from 600-800 feet. Most campsites sit on level ground with dense forest cover providing natural shade and privacy during summer months when temperatures typically reach 80-85°F. The campground operates with modern amenities alongside several primitive sites that require short hikes to access.
What to do
Hiking trails: George Washington State Campground offers several hiking options beyond the lake area. "Big open sites, really quiet, great place to relax and hike," notes Kelly F., who appreciated the secluded nature of the trails that branch out from the camping areas.
Disc golf course: Wells State Park Campground maintains an 18-hole disc golf course through wooded terrain. "There are some tent-only sites which are numbered T1-T5. I stayed in T5 and it was the best of the bunch because it had the most privacy and space, including a grassy area," mentions Ryan A., who discovered the course during his stay.
River tubing: Charlie Brown Campground provides direct river access for tubing. "This was our first time visiting and my entire family enjoyed themselves so much, that we've already reserved a site for a few weeks from now. Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built-in entertainment for the kids!" reports Michael, highlighting one of the more unique water activities near Chepachet.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Bowdish Lake Camping Area, campers appreciate the well-spaced sites. "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. I think we are one of the only tent campers here this weekend, seems like a lot of seasonal camping with RVs. But it appears that most of the sites are very private," shares Taylor B.
Clean facilities: West Thompson Lake Campground maintains exceptionally clean restrooms. "The park rangers and camp staff are super friendly and helpful, and the facilities are kept neat as a pin all the time. There are plenty of hiking trails that we have yet to explore, but from the trail heads they look very well maintained," notes Cynthia K.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing as a main attraction. "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," says Nick S. about George Washington State Campground, mentioning how accessible the fishing spots are from most campsites.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most glamping options close to Chepachet, Rhode Island operate between mid-April and mid-October. Wells State Park specifically notes that "bathhouses, were ok: roomy, well-lit, but quite old and a bit smelly. Don't think they are cleaned very often," according to Jen V., though more recent reviews indicate improvements.
Price variations: Normandy Farms Campground charges premium rates but offers corresponding amenities. "The downside really is the price and how many sites there are. If you are looking for a quiet, peaceful getaway this is not it," notes Nancy W., highlighting that luxury accommodations come with additional costs compared to basic options.
Cell signal limitations: Some camping areas have limited connectivity. Regarding Sutton Falls Camping Area, one camper reported: "Only problem was the cell signal. My wife works remotely and needs a to be connected. Without our antenna we we only had 1 bar of both Verizon and AT&T. No signal at all on T-Mobile/Sprint."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Charlie Brown Campground caters specifically to families with organized activities. "Arts and crafts, tractor rides, and of course the tubing down the river. Lots of built-in entertainment for the kids! The grounds were clean, the playground was nice, and the people were all friendly," shares Michael, emphasizing the structured recreation available.
Swimming considerations: Not all water features are suitable for children. Jessica W. from George Washington State Campground notes, "There is a nice beach for children. The water was warm and clean. You can kayak or canoe. The dogs cannot go on the beach, but they can go in the boats."
Tent site selection: For families seeking more natural glamping near Chepachet, Rhode Island, tent selection matters. "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)," advises Nick P.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Sutton Falls Camping Area offers full-service RV sites alongside their glamping options. "Stayed on an rv site for 1 week this past summer. Had a great time, kids had a blast with the boat rentals and fishing. Saw they have 2 yurts for rent as well," mentions Dr. D.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have access challenges for larger rigs. Sutton Falls features a covered bridge that concerns some drivers, but one RVer clarified: "There's a covered bridge that scared me a little due to size concerns but its quite tall and wide enough. Our rig is 11'9" to the top of the A/C and we had no issues."
Site leveling needs: RV campers should prepare for uneven terrain. Michelle H. notes about George Washington State Campground: "Nice campground with big private spots. Nice bathhouse with pay showers. Pretty, man made lake with a beach area for swimming and paddling."
