Cabin camping options around Johnston, Rhode Island include accommodations in wooded settings with varying amenity levels. Most area campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, though some remain open year-round. Sites typically range from 5 to 35 miles from Johnston, with most located in the northern and western parts of Rhode Island or just across the Connecticut and Massachusetts borders.
What to do
Hiking trails access: George Washington State Campground provides miles of hiking opportunities alongside the campground's lake. One visitor reported, "There's fishing and hiking right in the park" while another noted, "Big open sites, really quiet, great place to relax and hike."
Fishing opportunities: West Thompson Lake Campground offers a fishing pond for catch-and-release fishing. According to a camper, "The lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings. Fishing here is all catch and release."
Disc golf courses: Several campgrounds feature disc golf courses for those interested in this growing sport. A visitor to West Thompson Lake mentioned, "We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Normandy Farms Campground maintains well-kept amenities that impress visitors. One camper noted, "Bathrooms are best of any campground. Highly recommend" while another shared, "The staff is friendly and helpful, and the facilities are clean."
Water activities: During summer months, swimming and boating options abound. A visitor to Burlingame State Park Campground described the setting as having a "cute little beach, dog friendly. Bring quarters for the showers."
Halloween celebrations: River Bend Campground goes all-out for Halloween events in October. A camper reported, "Great weekend to come - seasonal campers go all out decorating for Halloween. There are tons of activities for all ages: trick or treating one night, DJ/dance Saturday and Sunday, bingo/horseshoe/cornhole tournaments during the day."
What you should know
Shower facilities: Pay showers are common at state parks in the area. At George Washington State Campground, one visitor pointed out, "Bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins)."
Site privacy varies: Campgrounds offer different levels of site separation. One camper at Dyer Woods Nudist Campground described it as "Rustic with a traditional campground feeling. Swimming pond is wonderful. Three miles of well kept trails to explore."
Gate access hours: Some campgrounds restrict entrance after certain hours. A West Thompson Lake camper mentioned, "Only complaint is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm."
Seasonal activities: Event schedules change throughout the camping season. At Normandy Farms, "During the busy summer months there is a long list of activities ranging from yoga to kids games."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Larger campgrounds provide extensive recreation facilities. A visitor to Normandy Farms noted, "Four pools (include an indoor heated one), fitness room, creative arts center, camp store, 20,000 square-foot activities building (with adult only lounge, pool table, arcade, games, wide-screen televisions, sauna, Jacuzzi)."
Check seasonal rental availability: Camping cabins near Johnston can book quickly, especially during summer weekends. At Burlingame State Campground, "This is a great family campground. Lots to do and it is massive! You can bike for ever and go to the lake!"
Choose sites strategically: Location within campgrounds impacts noise levels. One camper advised about Burlingame, "If you want a good visit do not stay down by the lake!!!"
Consider off-peak visits: For quieter experiences, avoid holiday weekends. A Burlingame visitor recommended, "Avoid holiday weekends and the heat of August if you can. Be prepared for dirty restrooms and come armed with hand soap (they no longer provide any), paper towels, and Clorox wipes."
Tips from RVers
Electrical service quality: Check power connections upon arrival. One Holiday Acres camper reported, "Electrical at my campsite could use a little work. The sewer on my site overflowed after only ~15-20 gallons of dumping."
Site access considerations: Entrance configurations can be challenging. A visitor noted, "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."
Bring surge protectors: Protect your equipment from electrical issues. One camper advised after experiencing problems, "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!!"
