Clayville, Rhode Island sits at 440 feet above sea level in the western part of the state, characterized by wooded terrain and small ponds. The area's camping season typically runs from late April through mid-October, with summer high temperatures averaging 80-85°F and nighttime lows around 60°F. Winter camping is limited due to seasonal closures at most facilities.
What to do
Hiking trails: George Washington State Campground offers multiple hiking options around the grounds. One reviewer noted, "There's fishing and hiking right in the park" while another mentioned the campground has "great hiking trails going around some lakes."
Kayaking and canoeing: West Thompson Lake Campground provides excellent water access for small watercraft. "Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings," writes a camper who enjoyed the peaceful setting.
Swimming options: During summer months, most cabin facilities near Clayville offer swimming areas. At George Washington State Campground, a visitor mentioned they "enjoyed swimming and fishing" and another noted the "beautiful beach" for recreation.
Fishing spots: Multiple ponds and lakes around cabin accommodations provide fishing opportunities. A camper at West Thompson Lake Campground noted that "fishing here is all catch and release" while the facilities remain "neat as a pin all the time."
What campers like
Private sites: Many cabin rentals and campgrounds near Clayville provide good spacing between sites. At Hopeville Pond State Park, campers appreciate that "the sites in loop F offer more privacy" and tent sites are available along the waterfront.
Clean facilities: Cabin and campground cleanliness rates highly in visitor reviews. One guest at Normandy Farms Campground wrote that "bathrooms are best of any campground" while another stated it's "spotlessly clean and wonderful employees."
Seasonal activities: Many cabin rental facilities organize special events. At Stateline Campresort & Cabins, a visitor mentioned, "We went to their Oktoberfest that they did on Saturday and that was decorated great and the band and activities were good!"
Waterfront options: Several cabin accommodations near Clayville feature water views. A guest at Stateline Campresort shared, "The site we had overlooked the pond and was perfect" highlighting the scenic setting available at select cabins.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. At Dyer Woods Nudist Campgrounds, the atmosphere is described as "rustic with a traditional campground feeling" with a "swimming pond" and "three miles of well kept trails to explore."
Bathroom access: Bathroom facilities vary widely between locations. One reviewer at Burlingame State Park noted, "Bath houses are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross."
Seasonal operation: Most cabins near Clayville operate on limited schedules. Holiday Acres Campground runs year-round, but one visitor warned about electrical issues: "Their corroded 30 amp power melted the connections on both my cords and blew out my power awning."
Site selection matters: Reviews consistently mention significant variations between sites at the same facility. A camper at Burlingame State Park advised, "If you want a good visit do not stay down by the lake!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When booking cabins with children, check for play equipment availability. At Holiday Acres Campground, families appreciate that "there are tons of activities for all ages" including special Halloween events where "seasonal campers go all out decorating."
Swimming safety: Family-friendly cabin locations typically offer designated swimming areas. George Washington State Campground features "a nice beach for children. The water was warm and clean," according to one visitor.
Bike-friendly paths: Several facilities have good biking infrastructure for children. West Thompson Lake Campground offers "a basketball court, playground and ampitheatre to keep the kids busy" along with "hiking trails galore, disk golf, and swimming nearby."
Noise considerations: Family cabin rentals may be louder during peak seasons. A Burlingame State Park visitor noted, "This is a great family campground. Lots to do and it is massive! You can bike for ever and go to the lake!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RVers seeking cabin alternatives should verify utility connections. At Hopeville Pond State Park Campground, "Some of the site have 50A/20A electric hookups and there's a dump station available."
Site leveling: RV pads at many facilities require minimal leveling. A visitor to West Thompson Lake noted "large campsites" that accommodate vehicles well.
Access roads: Most cabin facilities have adequate roads for larger vehicles. At Normandy Farms, "roads are paved and plenty wide enough for big RV's to navigate" making access straightforward.
Site privacy: RV sites near cabin areas vary in spacing and privacy. One camper at Hopeville Pond State Park warned that "RVs mixed with tents and noisy generators running all day and night" can impact the experience.
