Camping options near Greenville, Rhode Island cluster around the Chepachet and Glocester areas at an elevation averaging 400-500 feet. The region features numerous freshwater lakes and wooded terrain dominated by oak, maple, and pine forests. Most campgrounds in this northwestern Rhode Island area remain open from mid-April through mid-October, with seasonal water temperatures in swimming areas typically reaching 70-75°F by July.
What to do
Hiking trails with lake views: West Thompson Lake Campground offers extensive trail networks for day hiking. "There are plenty of hiking trails that we have yet to explore, but from the trail heads they look very well maintained," notes one camper at West Thompson Lake Campground. The area features trails that connect to a disc golf course as well.
Freshwater fishing opportunities: Several lakes in the region offer catch-and-release fishing. At George Washington State Campground, visitors enjoy "fishing and hiking right in the park," as mentioned by Nick S. Bowdish Lake Camping Area provides another fishing option with more secluded sites.
Swimming in designated areas: While not all lakes permit swimming, those that do typically have designated beach areas. As Thomas M. shares about George Washington State Campground: "This is a lovely campground with a beautiful beach, new pay shower and bathrooms. We enjoyed swimming and fishing."
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many campers appreciate the size and layout of sites in the area. At Bowdish Lake Camping Area, visitors note: "Our site Blue 111 is spacious with lots of privacy." Similarly, Taylor B. reports, "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."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are frequently mentioned as positives. At Normandy Farms Campground, a reviewer states: "Bathrooms are best of any campground. Highly recommend." This feature is particularly important for campers with pets who need reliable facilities.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the region offer a peaceful environment. "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded," says Nick S. about George Washington State Campground. Kelly F. adds, "Big open sites, really quiet, great place to relax and hike."
What you should know
Varying pet policies: While many campgrounds near Greenville are pet-friendly, specific rules differ by location. Holiday Acres Campground welcomes pets but doesn't have a dedicated pet area. For a more structured pet experience, Circle Campground Farm Campground offers amenities that pet owners appreciate.
Seasonal operation limits: Most campgrounds operate only from spring through fall. As one camper at Holiday Acres notes: "It has a few bumps and bruises that could be improved but overall it was a safe place with lots of families." Be sure to check specific opening dates before planning your trip.
Electrical hookups vary: Campers report different experiences with power supply. At Holiday Acres Campground, one reviewer warns: "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!!" This underscores the importance of proper equipment when camping with electrical needs.
Seasonal site prevalence: Several campgrounds have a high percentage of seasonal campers. "If I had any idea before arriving that this was a seasonal parking lot I never would have booked here," mentions one camper about Oak Leaf Family Campground. This can affect the overall experience for short-term visitors.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: Beaches and pools provide recreation for kids. At Stateline Campresort & Cabins, a visitor shares: "Clean, wooded and open sites some overlook a large pond. Boat rentals, pool, game room available." This gives families multiple water-based options.
Site selection matters: For families with pets, choosing the right site can make a big difference. Taylor B. from Bowdish Lake notes, "I think we are one of the only tent campers here this weekend, seems like a lot of seasonal camping with RVs. But it appears that most of the sites are very private."
Weekend activities: Many campgrounds offer organized events. At Stateline Campresort, Johnny W. reports: "We went to their Oktoberfest that they did on Saturday and that was decorated great and the band and activities were good!" These scheduled activities can keep children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RVers should prepare for potentially uneven sites. At Holiday Acres Campground, Michael K. advises: "The entrance/office setup is confusing. If you come in from the West you'll see an entrance, if you pull in you'll then be able to see signs that tell you to go another 1/4 mile to the office to check in."
Electrical capacity awareness: Check amp service before booking. Jason E. shares about Holiday Acres: "We were just here for a couple of nights in August. Had everything we needed: 50 amp, water, sewer. It was field-style camping, which I don't mind at all. Nice easy in and out of sites."
Dump station access: Accessibility varies greatly between campgrounds. Michael K. notes about Holiday Acres: "The sewer on my site overflowed after only ~15-20 gallons of dumping." This highlights the importance of checking these facilities before committing to a longer stay.
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