Camping options near Clayville, Rhode Island offer varied experiences from tent sites to RV hookups with proximity to both woodland and water recreation. Located in Providence County with elevations averaging 400-600 feet, this area experiences typical New England seasons with warm summers and cold winters. Fall camping brings colorful foliage while spring offers mild temperatures ideal for hiking the numerous trails throughout the region.
What to Do
Hiking trails beyond the popular routes: George Washington State Campground provides extensive hiking beyond the main trails. "Big open sites, really quiet, great place to relax and hike," notes Kelly F., while Joey S. adds, "Has great hiking trails going around some lakes. Clean showers."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campsites offer fishing access within walking distance. At Charlie Brown Campground, guests enjoy the riverside location. "We all park around this Pavillon. IT is well kept, kids are entertained by parents and fishing etc," writes Sandie B. The nearby Natchaug River provides additional water recreation.
Disc golf courses: West Thompson Lake Campground features an on-site disc golf course. "We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property," shares Jason L. The course is accessible to campers of all skill levels and provides equipment rentals at reasonable rates.
Swimming options: While swimming isn't permitted at all water bodies, select locations offer designated swimming areas. Burlingame State Park has a "cute little beach," according to Katelain T. Swimming is weather-dependent and typically available from late May through early September.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds offer secluded camping spots. At Bowdish Lake Camping Area, Taylor B. mentions, "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." The campground features both wooded and open sites.
Clean facilities: Cleanliness is consistently mentioned in reviews. At George Washington State Campground, Nick P. notes, "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)."
Family-friendly amenities: Campgrounds in the area cater to families with various activities. A visitor to Strawberry Park shares, "I love that I see the same staff there every year. There are seasonal and weekenders alike. Bingo every night, and more activities than you could possibly do!!!"
Yurt camping options: For those interested in yurt camping near Clayville, Rhode Island, Normandy Farms Campground offers this accommodation option. Jean T. states, "This campground is so well run I felt like I was in Disneyland's Frontier Land. They offer anything you could want. Spotlessly clean and wonderful employees. the pool is also great. The yurts are beautiful."
What You Should Know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from spring through fall. West Thompson Lake Campground runs "May 16 to September 6," while Charlie Brown Campground operates "April 15 to Oct 15." Plan accordingly, especially for holiday weekends.
Varying shower facilities: Shower amenities differ significantly between locations. At Burlingame State Park Campground, Jessica A. warns, "Bath houses - are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross." Other campgrounds receive better reviews for their facilities.
Additional fees: Be prepared for possible extra charges beyond the base camping rate. Richard P. observed at Bowdish Lake Camping Area: "Then they charged us an additional $75.00 for our truck. Why I don't know? Then they charged us an additional $50.00 for having our own kayak."
Gate hours: Some campgrounds restrict entry during certain times. Cameron F. notes about West Thompson Lake Campground, "only complain is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm." Check specific policies when booking your stay.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground proximity: Select sites near play areas for convenience with young children. At Charlie Brown Campground, Michael reports, "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."
Weather preparation: New England weather can change quickly. Madeline H. advises at Burlingame, "Make sure you set up your tent in preparedness for rain!" Pack layers and rain gear regardless of forecasts.
Activity scheduling: Campgrounds often provide scheduled programming for children. Ryan C. shares about Strawberry Park, "The rec staff. They always have a smile and they change the schedule when it rains to rainy day activities."
Budget considerations: For families watching costs, consider state parks over private campgrounds. Cendy G. notes about Burlingame, "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
Site leveling: RV campers should note terrain variations. Andrew P. shares about Burlingame, "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."
Dump station access: Multiple campgrounds provide dump facilities, but setup varies. Johnny W. notes about Charlie Brown Campground, "Grey dump only due to river so no biggie. Staff was friendly and there was some stuff to do."
Hookup options: Water and electric availability differs between campgrounds. For RVers seeking yurt accommodations near Clayville, alternatives exist if hookups are unavailable. Bobcat B. mentions at Charlie Brown Campground, "water, electric, gray water hookup, $63."
Site spacing: For larger RVs, space between sites matters. Michael C. from Strawberry Park appreciates that "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level. New fence poles show renovations were consistently done."
