Riverside camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service campgrounds within a 40-mile radius. Most state parks in the region maintain primitive sites with minimal hookups, while private campgrounds offer more amenities at higher rates. Nearly all facilities in this area operate seasonally from April through October, with full closures during winter months.
What to Do
Fishing at Massasoit State Park: Located 30 miles from Riverside, this recently renovated park offers excellent fishing opportunities. "Lakes have great fishing" according to one camper, while another mentions that the "playground is fantastic" following recent updates. The pond allows catch-and-release fishing only.
Exploring Newport's attractions: Newport RV Park provides a convenient base for exploring Newport's mansions and beaches. "This is the perfect place to stay if your visiting Newport,RI. We had a great time at this small campground, very clean and nice staff. Not many amenities but we where there for the beaches and mansions," reports one visitor.
Hiking nearby trails: The region offers multiple hiking options across various skill levels. "There is a nice pond to go fishing at as well. About an 20 min drive to local beaches," notes a camper at Newport RV Park. George Washington State Campground offers "great hiking trails going around some lakes" according to another visitor.
Water activities: Several campgrounds provide water recreation opportunities. "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," mentions a George Washington State Campground visitor.
What Campers Like
Well-maintained facilities: Cleanliness is consistently rated highly at several campgrounds. "Very clean tent site are amazing great place to camp and fish and hike great place to take a dog," reports a camper at Newport RV Park. Another visitor appreciated that "bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)."
Family-friendly environments: Wawaloam Campground receives praise for its kid-focused amenities. "Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing. The playground is nice. The grounds are well taken care of," notes one visitor. Another adds, "This our favorite campground, lots for the kids to do, and safe for them to run free."
Quiet, natural settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at certain campgrounds. "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," shares a visitor about George Washington State Campground. "It is just reopenning now, renovations cont. and thevupdates are fabulous. Everything is new," notes a visitor at Massasoit State Park.
Accessibility to regional attractions: Campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional highlights. "The location of this park was great for what we were doing – not too far from Newport but in a nice quiet section of town," explains a Newport RV Park visitor.
What You Should Know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds close entirely during winter. "The park is open from April 15th to November 15th. Prices vary depending on the season, if you have a weekly/monthly rate, and the type of hook-ups you want," notes a Newport RV Park visitor.
Price variations: Non-resident fees can be substantially higher at state parks. Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground charges significantly more for out-of-state visitors: "Imagine my surprise when we found out that a water/electric site for an out of state camper was $45 per night! This was our first visit to a Rhode Island State Park so not sure if they are all like this but this one definitely caters to Rhode Island residents."
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking is essential during peak season. "We were here a couple of years ago and told everyone we knew about it in the PNW never knowing if our big road trips would have us near Foxboro again," shares a camper about Normandy Farms Campground, highlighting the popularity that necessitates advance planning.
Facility limitations: Services vary widely between parks. "No hook-ups, lol. This is a con in the heat of the summer if you want/need AC," reports a camper at Burlingame State Park. Another notes about Carr Point Recreation Facility: "No sewer hookups or showers. The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10."
Tips for Camping with Families
Swimming options: Several parks offer water recreation specifically designed for children. "The swimming area (which was just opened the week prior) looked okay if you can picture a beach area (nice) but seems like it was a regular pond where they just dumped sand," explains a visitor at Massasoit State Park.
Activity centers: Burlingame State Park Campground offers multiple family-friendly amenities. "This is a great family campground. Lots to do and it is massive! You can bike for ever and go to the lake! Camp store literally has anything you would need," shares a visitor.
Budget options: State parks offer economical camping for families. "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," notes a visitor at Burlingame State Park.
Cleanliness considerations: Bathroom conditions can vary by location and time of season. "Bathrooms are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross," warns a Burlingame State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited at state parks. "There are four areas, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Area One has the best views and full hookups but there is no bathhouse; Area Two also has full hookups, no view and some of the sites (55-65) are decidedly not level," explains a visitor at Fishermens Memorial State Park.
Site selection strategy: Many campgrounds have distinct areas with different amenities. "If you want a good visit do not stay down by the lake!!!" advises a Burlingame State Park visitor. Another camper at Holiday Acres notes: "Most of the campsites seem to have an open area in the middle between them that allows for maneuvering and socializing."
Leveling requirements: Terrain varies significantly across the region. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)," advises a Newport RV Park visitor.
Electrical considerations: Power reliability can be an issue at some locations. "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!! We learned the hard way after staying Memorial day weekend," warns a Holiday Acres Campground visitor.
