Best Campgrounds near Cranston, RI

Several good camping spots sit within driving distance of Cranston, Rhode Island. Wompatuck State Park Campground has clean sites and hiking trails nearby for day trips. Normandy Farms Campground includes a swimming pool and activities that work well for families with kids. George Washington State Campground gives campers a more basic woods experience with good fishing access. You'll likely see deer and raccoons around these campgrounds, so keep your food locked up at night. While permits aren't usually needed, you should make reservations ahead of time in summer and on holiday weekends. Check on fire rules before your trip, as they change during dry weather. Most campgrounds let you stay up to 14 days at a time. Campgrounds around Cranston stay open all year, though spring and fall have the best weather. Summer gets humid, and winter camping means dealing with snow and ice at times. The Cranston area has both family campgrounds and quieter spots depending on what you're looking for.

Best Camping Sites Near Cranston, Rhode Island (139)

    1. Normandy Farms Campground

    39 Reviews
    Foxborough, MA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (866) 673-2767

    $50 - $200 / night

    "The staff was positive and helpful and that made a difference for me. I traditionally dry camp or go for semi hooked up on purpose, I just like the quieter camping."

    "Driving around this place is definitely not a typical campground but more of a luxury camp because of all of the amenities.

    That being said it was very nice and felt safe."

    2. George Washington State Campground

    25 Reviews
    Pascoag, RI
    19 miles
    +1 (401) 568-6700

    $18 - $75 / night

    "So if you are confused about things like location, let’s knock that out first:

    This campground is located near 2185 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, RI 02814."

    "The campground was safe, nicely laid out so we could have a series of sites next to one another. Biking was a blast for the kids along with trail hike around pond, beach, and fishing."

    3. Newport RV Park

    16 Reviews
    Portsmouth, RI
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 682-2424

    $70 - $140 / night

    "Excellent location for exploring the cites and beaches of Rhode Island!"

    "We chose this park due to its location close to downtown Newport (a mere five miles). There is a lot to do in this area and we wanted to spend time sightseeing. "

    4. Wawaloam Campground

    11 Reviews
    Richmond, RI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 294-3039

    $50 - $75 / night

    " Wawaloam Campground in Rhode Island was our 3rd state & campground on our East Coast trip. Not a lot of choices in Rhode Island, but we liked this camp ground in a rural wooded area. 

       "

    5. Holiday Acres Campground

    6 Reviews
    Chepachet, RI
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 934-0780

    $35 - $50 / night

    "The swimming area has a 'icky bottom' (kid term :)) 

    The entrance / office setup is confusing."

    6. Stateline Campresort & Cabins

    9 Reviews
    Ballouville, CT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (860) 774-3016

    $25 - $50 / night

    "The manager came up and they assigned me to a site next to the frog pond, but with our little kids I was t too keen on staying literally on the pond."

    7. Burlingame State Park Campground

    50 Reviews
    Charlestown, RI
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 322-8910

    $18 / night

    "I've never camped in Rhode Island, so I was curious to see what a state park campground had to offer."

    "My parents stayed in a bunkhouse and my husband and I stayed on the adjacent site. Bunkhouse is very basic but clean. Sites are well spaced with lots of types to choose from."

    8. Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground

    30 Reviews
    Narragansett Pier, RI
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (401) 789-8374

    $18 - $28 / night

    "Fisherman’s Memorial State Park is a large 182 site campground in Narragansett, Rhode Island."

    "Lots of nearby beaches and restaurants. Campsites are simple. A patch of grass with a small bush or two, not very much shade, space or privacy."

    9. Dyer Woods Nudist Campgrounds

    3 Reviews
    Foster Center, RI
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (774) 441-4559

    "Three miles of well kept trails to explore. Friendly community of regulars with potlucks and campfires on the weekends. Being nude in duch a wonderful place is so relaxing and good gor the soul."

    10. Massasoit State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Lakeville, MA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (508) 822-7405

    $17 - $27 / night

    "Other than the bees, it was peaceful, and nobody bothered you. i would recommend lots of bee spray and a screen house, but hopefully it was an isolation situation."

    "We were located in the no electric no water area and even though every site was taken, it was surprisingly more private than you'd expect."

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Recent Reviews near Cranston, RI

822 Reviews of 139 Cranston Campgrounds


  • SkipperAllen C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Wompatuck State Park Campground

    Very nice stopover

    Good place to spend the night.It was quiet comfortable and plenty of room between campsites

  • Paul K.
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Fort Getty Campground

    Great Park Just Not for Camping

    Forty Getty Park RV Campground seems like a great location, with a good bit of history and a lot to offer to anyone visiting, which is why I was eager to visit it this past weekend while traveling through the Jamestown area of Rhode Island. I'd still call it a great place to visit, just not the best to attempt to stay at overnight or camp at. That is something else entirely in this case. 

    THE GOOD👍 Again, an absolutely gorgeous location on the shores of Jamestown😍 that being the park, NOT the campgrounds. The campground itself🏕 and particularly the⛺️ tenting section are pretty far removed from any of that and the water itself in reality. 

    THE Bad. In actuality, the campground looks to be a complete afterthought. More like, What should we do with this little grassy area next to the RV park?... oh maybe that can be for tents! Or,. Where the hell are we going to fit some tents⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️⛺️around here? Oh, I know, how about over on the hill by the bathrooms?🚻 next to the RV park fencing? Oh yeah, that sounds Perfect👍 

    The Ugly There's no Ugly. The people seem nice, the park is great,t and everyone working there was polite and courteous. It's just a shame they haven't given any real consideration to the camping section or provided a real space for campers to come enough the area. What you're left with is a grassy knoll with a bunch of tent sites tightly clustered together and right next to or on top of the RV park in a way that didn't seem necessary.

  • j
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Crocker's Boatyard

    Great!

    Great spot with view of harbor, a pool, bathroom and power if needed. Easy to book, good location- near many places of interest.

  • Eric LeBoeuf
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Wompatuck State Park Campground

    Meh its ok

    Bathrooms are out dated showers have tiles falling off very small showers also quiet hrs are enforced on Friday nights only it seems

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Indian Ranch Campground

    Live Music, Lake Views, and Laid-Back Vibes—One of Our Favorite Campgrounds

    We ended up at Indian Ranch Campground after leaving another local campground under less-than-ideal circumstances… and honestly, it turned out to be one of the best accidental discoveries we’ve ever made.

    From the moment we arrived, the energy here was completely different—welcoming, relaxed, and full of life. The campground is beautifully laid out with well-kept sites, plenty of trees, and easy access to Webster Lake(aka Lake Chargoggagoggmanchauggagoggchaubunagungamaugg—yes, really).

    🎶 The concerts? Incredible. Being able to walk from our campsite to watch national music acts perform live at the Indian Ranch Amphitheater is a game-changer. It’s like a music festival that doesn’t require you to sleep in a muddy field. Huge bonus for music lovers!

    🛺 Golf cart rentals make exploring the campground easy and fun, especially if you're hauling chairs, coolers, or just want to cruise around and enjoy the views.

    🏊‍♂️ The pool is clean and inviting—perfect for relaxing after a show or just enjoying a sunny afternoon.

    🌅 The lake itself is stunning, with spots to sit and watch the boats, fish, or just take in the view. The vibe is very“lake life meets concert culture,” and it works perfectly.

    🍔 There’s also an on-site restaurant inside the gates with great food, cold drinks, and a laid-back patio atmosphere that completes the experience.

    🤝 The people here? Fantastic. Campers were friendly, staff was helpful, and there was an overall sense of community that you just don’t get at every park. In Summary: Awesome mix of camping+ concerts Clean facilities, full hookups, and spacious sites Golf cart rentals= a must! Pool, lake, and great food on-site Walkable access to live shows= chef’s kiss🎶 We stumbled in… and didn’t want to leave If you're looking for more than just a campsite—if you want an experience—this is it. We'll be back. Probably more than once.

  • Jim R.
    Aug. 6, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Please—Do Your Homework Before You Stay Here

    I wish I wasn’t writing this.

    Truly. But if sharing our experience helps even one person avoid the same mistake, then it’s worth it.

    We booked two full weeks at Douglas Forest RV Resort, drawn in by its wooded setting and supposed family-friendly charm. The photos looked peaceful. The location sounded perfect. But within hours of arrival, we realized we had walked into something completely different.

    Almost immediately, we witnessed aggressive, disturbing behavior—adults yelling and chasing children through the park. At one point, a child was literally being pursued by a vehicle. In a campground. On the roads where people walk, dogs are walked, and kids ride bikes. We were shocked. We kept expecting someone from staff to step in—but no one did. When we brought it up to another guest, they just nodded and said,“Yeah… it’s always like this.” Turns out, management is known to overlook certain behavior from“regulars.”

    As we walked the grounds, we also noticed**several people clearly living out of tents—**not camping, not weekend warriors, but living there long-term. It gave the entire campground an uneasy, off-kilter feel. The line between traveler and transient is not well-maintained here, and it adds to the overall lack of safety and structure.

    We were ready to leave that night, but with tight, poorly lit roads, towing out after dark just wasn’t safe. So we locked up, barely slept, and pulled out at first light. We had paid for 14 nights. We stayed one. And we didn’t ask for a refund—because honestly, we just wanted out.

    And yes, we later discovered that many of the glowing reviews online were written by someone who works at the campground. That’s not just misleading—it’s reckless. Campers rely on those reviews to make informed choices.

    Douglas Forest RV Resort could be something special, but it’s not. Not right now. Not while safety is ignored, accountability is non-existent, and some guests are clearly treated as untouchable. Please, do your homework before booking here.

    We wish we had—just one day earlier.

  • Glenn M.
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Douglas Forest RV Resort

    Reviews seem to be disappearing for this property.

    Mixed Experience- Potential Hindered by Operational Issues

    The new ownership appears committed to improvements, though the focus seems more on revenue generation than guest experience at this time. 

    Infrastructure Concerns: The electrical system needs significant attention. Multiple RVs share single pedestals, and we observed exposed wire connections and pest issues at electrical boxes. Power fluctuations are common during warm weather, causing frequent breaker trips. The road system requires maintenance- while some fresh gravel has been applied, many intersections remain challenging for larger trailers due to poor grading and poorly placed boulders. 

    Accommodations& Atmosphere: This is primarily a seasonal/long-term resident park rather than a traditional camping resort. The site composition includes many permanent residents, which creates more of a residential community feel. For those seeking a transient camping experience, this may not align with expectations.

    Facilities: The pool is well-maintained and enjoyable. However, other amenities need attention- the playground equipment shows its age, and laundry facilities, while clean, have mechanical reliability issues. Currently, only one restroom facility is fully operational, with others being gradually brought online.

    Accessibility: Most sites feature loose gravel surfaces that may present challenges for guests with mobility equipment. The playground uses mulch surfacing, which may also limit accessibility.

    Management: Communication with management regarding concerns can be challenging, and families should be prepared for a more relaxed supervision environment.

    Bottom Line: While the location has natural beauty and potential, current operational challenges and pricing don't align well with the amenity level provided. Those seeking a quiet, well-maintained camping experience might find better value elsewhere until improvements are completed. Positive reviews seem to be coming from investors of the campground or people with personal interest.


Guide to Cranston

Camping near Cranston, Rhode Island, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Many campgrounds are surrounded by scenic trails. For example, at Wompatuck State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "You can take a trail from the campsite," making it easy to enjoy the great outdoors.
  • Beach Access: If you love the beach, Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground is just a short drive from beautiful beaches. A camper shared, "Not far from ROGER WHEELER BEACH & SCARBOROUGH BEACH."
  • Family Activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. At Normandy Farms Campground, a visitor noted, "It has so many things for the kids to do," making it a great spot for families.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One reviewer at Lorraine Park Campground said, "The sanitary building is clean with good showers."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds offer roomy sites. A camper at Shawme Crowell State Forest mentioned, "The campsite we had was very large, private and shady."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At George Washington State Campground, a visitor remarked, "Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds."

What you should know:

  • No Alcohol at Some Campgrounds: If you enjoy a drink while camping, be aware that some places, like Wompatuck State Park Campground, do not allow alcohol.
  • Site Conditions Vary: Some sites may not be level or spacious enough for larger RVs. A camper at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground noted, "Our site was very uneven so leveling the RV wasn't real easy."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may lack stores or markets. A visitor at Shawme Crowell State Forest mentioned, "Camp store is near the entrance and it is really hilly to get to on a bike."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Look for campgrounds with kid-friendly amenities. At Normandy Farms Campground, one parent said, "Everyone is so friendly. Can't wait to go back for the 4th of July."
  • Pack Bug Spray: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially near water. A camper at Shawme Crowell State Forest advised, "Bug spray and fans are a definite when sitting outside due to mosquitoes."
  • Choose Shady Sites: Look for campsites that offer shade to keep your family comfortable. A visitor at Lorraine Park Campground appreciated, "The pitches are spacious and shaded."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Levels: Before booking, check if the sites are level enough for your RV. A camper at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground mentioned, "Some sites are fairly level but not most of them."
  • Bring Leveling Blocks: If your RV site isn’t level, bring extra leveling blocks. A visitor at Normandy Farms Campground suggested, "Just be prepared and bring plenty of leveling blocks!"
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. A reviewer at George Washington State Campground noted, "Full water and electrical hookup."

Camping around Cranston, RI, offers a variety of experiences, making it one of the best camping destinations in the area. Whether you're with family or exploring solo, there's something for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Cranston for tent camping?

For excellent tent camping near Cranston, George Washington State Campground is a top choice. Located near Chepachet by Bowdish Lake, it offers peaceful, well-spaced sites ideal for tents. Non-residents pay slightly higher fees, but the natural setting makes it worth it. Another good option is Burlingame State Park Campground, which features 739 reservable sites with plenty of privacy. Though bathroom facilities have seen some decline in recent years, the park's 3,100 acres of natural surroundings offer a genuine outdoor experience for tent campers.

Are there any lakefront campgrounds near Cranston?

Yes, there are lakefront camping options near Cranston. George Washington State Campground offers scenic lakefront camping on Bowdish Lake, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and water recreation. For those willing to travel a bit further, Holiday Acres Campground near Glocester offers boat-in access sites, making it ideal for campers looking to combine boating with their camping experience. Both provide the peaceful lakeside atmosphere that many campers seek for a refreshing outdoor getaway.

What family-friendly camping options are available near Cranston?

Families looking for kid-friendly camping near Cranston should check out Wawaloam Campground, which is described as "kid heaven" with families laughing and enjoying themselves. The campground offers a pool, splash pad, and numerous activities in a rural wooded setting. Another excellent family option is Mystic KOA in North Stonington, Connecticut, just 15 minutes from Mystic and about an hour from Newport. It's conveniently located near family attractions like Mystic Aquarium and provides a great base for exploring both Connecticut and Rhode Island.