Tent campsites near Johnston, Rhode Island range from rustic primitive sites to more developed grounds with amenities. Most campgrounds in this region close during winter months, typically operating from late spring through early fall due to New England's colder temperatures. The forested terrain offers varied camping experiences with decidedly rural character despite proximity to urban areas.
What to do
Explore island camping: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground provides unique island camping options accessible only by ferry from Hingham. "Just getting to the island is a fun adventure. The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails. You can build bon fires and see gorgeous sunsets. During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore," notes Martha H. in a review of Peddocks Island.
Discover historical structures: Several campgrounds feature abandoned military structures to explore. At Boston Harbor Islands, "We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house. We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers. Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it," according to Jess G.
Kayaking and canoeing: Most campgrounds near Johnston provide water access for paddling activities. Water's Edge Campground in Coventry allows boat-in camping for those arriving by water. The campground sits directly on a body of water suitable for kayaking and fishing.
What campers like
Quieter camping experiences: The rural campgrounds near Johnston often provide a more secluded experience. "This is a great rural no frills campground... The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities," writes Greg R. about Buck Hill Campground.
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds offer swimming in ponds or lakes without lifeguards or developed beaches. "There's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything. The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water," notes a camper about Buck Hill Campground.
Escape from urban environments: Despite proximity to cities, many campers appreciate the rural character of these areas. At Boston Harbor Islands, Walter C. calls it an "Oasis in the middle of the city," though notes "this campsite is a lot of fun but can get noisy at night."
What you should know
Reservation planning: Campgrounds with limited sites require advance planning. For Boston Harbor Islands, "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance. That said, you can also look for last minute openings," recommends Martha H. of Peddocks Island.
Water access considerations: Not all campgrounds provide potable water. At Boston Harbor Islands, Jess G. advises, "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods." At Buck Hill, facilities are minimal with "a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties."
Seasonal operations: Most tent campgrounds near Johnston operate seasonally. Frontier Family Camper Park runs from May 1 to September 30, while Boston Harbor Islands operates "June to Labor Day weekend." During the pandemic, some campgrounds closed temporarily, as madeleine B. noted about Boston Harbor Islands.
Tips for camping with families
Choose yurt camping for easier family trips: For families seeking a more comfortable experience, some campgrounds offer alternative accommodations. At Boston Harbor Islands, "The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill... This is a great adventure for kids."
Consider transportation logistics: Reaching some campgrounds requires multiple modes of transportation. For Boston Harbor Islands, one camper describes, "We live in Boston and took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells."
Look for group camping options: Many tent sites near Johnston accommodate multiple tents. Buck Hill Campground sites "are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)," making them suitable for family reunions or multi-family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Limited full-hookup options: Most tent campgrounds near Johnston offer minimal RV amenities, with few providing complete hookups. Frosty Hollow Camping Area in Exeter does offer electric, sewer and water hookups along with both 30 and 50 amp service, making it one of the better options for RVers who still want a tent camping atmosphere.
Consider alternative transportation: For island camping, RVers must park their rigs and take ferries. "I would recommend however if I had the chance I would bring my own boat," suggests Brandy G. about Boston Harbor Islands, noting that while the ferry system works well, having personal transportation provides more flexibility.
