Glamping in Hopkinton, Rhode Island offers a unique blend of comfort and outdoor experience in South County's woodland setting. Located about 35 miles southwest of Providence with elevation averaging around 200 feet above sea level, this region experiences classic New England seasons with warm, humid summers and cold winters. The area serves as a gateway to both inland forest experiences and coastal adventures with the Pawcatuck River creating natural boundaries and recreation opportunities.
What to Do
Hiking trail access: Burlingame State Park Campground provides extensive trails with various difficulty levels for day hikes. "This is a great family campground. Lots to do and it is massive! You can bike for ever and go to the lake!" writes Madeline H. about the park's expansive trail system.
Water recreation: Odetah Camping Resort offers multiple water-based activities centered around their pond. "There is good fishing on the pond, mini-golf, pool and splash pad, etc. Kids are not bored here!" notes Anne M., highlighting the diverse water options beyond traditional swimming.
Beach exploration: Access multiple coastal areas within a short drive. "The Preserve Club and Residences is a members/owners only community which is New England's most amenity rich properties," explains Chris M., describing the exclusivity of some options that complement the more accessible public beaches in the region.
What Campers Like
Spacious sites: Burlingame State Park Campground receives praise for its site layout. "Lots of space between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek," shares Jessica A., emphasizing the roominess uncommon in more compact campgrounds.
Weekend activities: Scheduled events enhance the camping experience for many visitors. "Each weekend has a big schedule of events- farmers' market, themed activities and a band," explains Anne M. about Odetah Camping Resort, pointing to structured entertainment options.
Privacy options: Despite being a large facility, many sites offer seclusion. "We had two sites side by side for our group of 7 and two dogs. The staff will deliver wood right to your site," reports Dana C., though noting "the sites are not very private...at all" at some locations.
What You Should Know
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Clean facilities. Great staff. New pool and hot tub," reports Matt O. about Odetah Camping Resort, which contrasts with comments about other area campgrounds.
Site selection importance: Not all sites are created equal within the same campground. "If you want a good visit do not stay down by the lake!!!" advises David M. about Burlingame State Park, suggesting higher elevation sites offer better experiences.
Seasonal considerations: Most glamping options operate on limited schedules. "This is a camping resort, but it's got it all," notes Darin K. about Strawberry Park, which like most upscale facilities operates primarily from spring through fall with peak season in summer months.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Multiple swimming options exist beyond traditional pools. "Lovely location - it's in the middle of the woods, has a pond, has pond swimming. It's just minutes to the ocean by car," explains Jessica A., highlighting Burlingame State Park Campground's diverse water recreation.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with multiple play areas. "Large well established and clean. Great mix of seasonal and vacation campers. Nice river with small beach. Arts and crafts for kids," reports Barbara P. about Hidden Acres Campground, emphasizing family-friendly amenities.
Avoid holiday crowds: Peak periods can dramatically change the experience. "Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed," warns Jessica A., suggesting mid-week or shoulder season visits offer more relaxed experiences.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Check site specifications before booking. "Hundreds of sites, some level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open," explains Andrew P. about Burlingame State Park, highlighting the importance of site research.
Hookup availability: Mystic KOA offers various hookup options but has specific configurations. "We were able to use the pool, facilities and the store and never felt that we were compromised," writes Jenn about their stay, noting the functional infrastructure during peak season.
Interior road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging navigation. "The place is big and wild but the staff is rude and useless. Campgrounds are very close from one another," cautions Sebastien R., pointing to potential challenges for larger rigs at certain facilities.
