Campgrounds surrounding Jamestown, Rhode Island offer diverse options for RV campers seeking coastal New England experiences. Located on Conanicut Island in Narragansett Bay, Jamestown sits at sea level with a humid continental climate featuring warm summers and mild winters. Wind conditions can be significant near the water, with seasonal gusts reaching 40-50 mph during storm systems, affecting both camping comfort and site selection.
What to do
Beach activities and fishing access: Several campgrounds near Jamestown provide convenient bases for exploring Rhode Island's coastal areas. Melville Ponds Campground in Portsmouth is located within a half-mile of restaurants, gas stations, and shopping. "Great for the family. Their is a nice pond to go fishing at as well. About an 20 min drive to local beaches," notes one camper at Newport RV Park.
Historic exploration in Mystic: The Connecticut border area provides alternative camping options with cultural attractions. "This park is in a great location for exploring Mystic. You are close to downtown, the aquarium, Mystic Seaport and other attractions," shares one visitor about Sun Outdoors Mystic, which offers various RV site configurations including buddy sites designed for groups camping together.
Hiking opportunities: Some campgrounds feature on-site natural areas. "We got a great pull through full hookup with a 5 minute walk to a huge dog park. There are also a bunch of beautiful trails right from the park," reports a camper about Newport RV Park, making it convenient for those who want outdoor activities without driving.
What campers like
Convenient location to attractions: Many RV sites near Jamestown, Rhode Island provide strategic positioning for regional exploration. "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," writes one camper about Newport RV Park.
Water recreation options: Some campgrounds feature ponds for fishing and swimming. "We enjoyed the shade trees on our site (#3) and noticed many sites had similar trees, but the owner keeps them trimmed to not interfere when parking on your site. There is also a creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it!" notes a visitor at Aces High RV Park in East Lyme, Connecticut.
Off-leash dog areas: Several campers mention appreciation for pet-friendly facilities. "We got a great pull through full hookup with a 5 minute walk to a huge dog park," shares one RV owner staying at Newport RV Park, an important consideration for travelers with pets.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the area require equipment for leveling. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back). Also, our site #215 was at the bottom of the hill, so it was a bit mucky," warns a camper at Newport RV Park.
Military-only facilities: Some campgrounds have restricted access. "Given that its military only, you cant beat the price. Downside: no sewer hookups or showers. The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10," explains a visitor at Carr Point Recreation Facility in Newport.
Seasonal availability: Operating seasons vary significantly among campgrounds. "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," shares a camper about Newport RV Park, which operates from April 15 to November 15.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for campgrounds with water features for children. At Peters Pond RV Resort, "Kids loved the little pool slide. Also enjoyed the golf cart rentals. The only disappointment was that they did not have a fire pit at the rented cabin that we were allowed to use," mentions one family.
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer recreational amenities for children. "It has a clean playground and well maintained pool as well as some walking paths, large grassy areas, pavilion and volleyball court," notes a visitor about Aces High RV Park, providing options for keeping children entertained.
Spacing between sites: Consider how close camping sites are to each other. "Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors. Sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it," shares a camper at Aces High RV Park, important for families who need room for activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Some RV sites near Jamestown offer specific advantages. "We chose a site in the open area because the winds were projected to be high. Our site (F4) had 30 amp and water. Satellite reception (Dish TV) was good and we were able to get a number of air antenna channels," reports an RVer at Newport RV Park.
Full hookup availability: Hookup options vary between campgrounds. "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. Sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it," notes a camper at Aces High RV Park, which offers full hookups at all but one site.
Propane services: Some RVers mention the availability of propane. "Clean, family friendly campground. Pet friendly with plenty of area to walk. Close to I-95 and 15 minutes from the beach. Fishing areas for the kids. Spots are well organized and no issues with hookups. Propane is available at the store," reports a visitor to Aces High RV Park.