Tent campsites near Coventry, Rhode Island range from densely wooded locations to waterfront spots along the Connecticut River. Many campsites north of Coventry offer natural barriers between sites through heavy tree coverage, providing privacy during peak camping seasons from May through September. Winter camping is limited in this region due to seasonal closures and New England's colder temperatures.
What to do
Water activities at Wakefield Pond: Buck Hill Campground north of Coventry provides direct access to Wakefield Pond for paddling and swimming. The site clusters can accommodate multiple groups with some offering covered patio areas with electricity. As one camper notes, "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')."
Boat-in camping adventures: Selden Neck State Park Campground offers a unique island camping experience accessible only by water. The 20-minute paddle from Deep River Landing across the Connecticut River leads to four primitive campsites. A visitor explains, "Once you get to the island, follow the bank north until you spot the sign for your campsite."
Connecticut River exploration: Chapman Pond Preserve provides tent platforms with views of the Connecticut River. The site offers basic amenities in a secluded setting. A camper describes it as a "Middle of nowhere site" with "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view."
What campers like
Scenic water views: Gillette Castle State Park Campground offers boat-in camping sites with exceptional river views. Campers appreciate the waterfront location, as one notes: "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset."
Natural seclusion: Many campsites near Coventry feature heavily wooded settings that create natural privacy barriers. Buck Hill Campground provides a rustic experience where, as one visitor states, "This is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc. don't expect much else."
Waterfront camping: Tent sites along ponds and rivers provide direct water access for recreation. At Water's Edge Campground, campers can access sites via boat, by car, or on foot, making it versatile for different camping styles while providing water activities.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Frontier Family Camper Park runs only from May 1 to September 30, making advance planning essential for summer visits.
Permit requirements: Some boat launches require permits during peak season. At Selden Neck, a camper advises, "Entering and parking at the boat launch requires a permit Memorial Day to Labor Day."
Limited amenities: Arcadia Backpack Camping Area and similar sites in the Arcadia Management Area provide basic facilities with electric hookups but no showers or toilets. Pack accordingly for these more primitive camping experiences.
Weather considerations: Morning fog can affect water travel for boat-in camping. One Selden Neck camper reported, "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early. But it burned off before long and we headed back."
Tips for camping with families
Shared camping areas: Buck Hill Campground features large site clusters rather than individual sites. A camper explains, "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)," making it ideal for family reunions or group outings with children.
Beach access for kids: Look for campgrounds with gentle water entry points for children. Buck Hill offers "a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything," providing a safer swimming experience for families.
Waterproof gear for boat-in sites: When camping with children at Chapman Pond Preserve, prepare for potential water exposure. For boat-in sites, one camper advises, "If it's a nice day, you're going to encounter some wake from passing boats so make sure your gear is in waterproof bags."
Group site reservations: For family gatherings at water-access sites, consider booking adjacent spots. At Gillette Castle State Park, "There's a few sites close to each other, so it is nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent campsites near Coventry offering RV accommodations provide only basic services. At Frosty Hollow Camping Area, electric and water hookups are available, but facilities remain rustic with no showers or restrooms.
Seasonal access: Check road conditions for RV access, particularly in spring when local dirt roads may be muddy or washed out. Many smaller campgrounds near Coventry have limited turning radius for larger vehicles.
