Best Campgrounds near Kingston, RI
The coastal region surrounding Kingston, Rhode Island features a mix of state parks and private campgrounds catering to various camping styles within a 30-minute drive. Burlingame State Park Campground, one of Rhode Island's largest camping facilities with over 700 sites, anchors the camping scene about 15 miles southwest of Kingston. Fishermen's Memorial State Park in Narragansett provides oceanside camping with full hookup options, while Charlestown Breachway offers waterfront RV parking with direct beach access. Family-oriented private campgrounds like Wawaloam in Richmond and Whispering Pines in Hope Valley supplement the state park options with additional amenities such as pools, playgrounds, and organized activities for children.
Camping fees throughout the Kingston area reflect a notable pricing structure that significantly favors Rhode Island residents. As one camper noted, "Rates are reasonable for state residents, but quite high if you are out-of-state, given the amenities." Most campgrounds operate seasonally from April through October, with limited year-round options. Site conditions vary considerably, with many campgrounds featuring uneven terrain. According to visitor reports, "I didn't see more than a handful of level sites, with varying degrees of slope, but many are quite large." Advance reservations are essential during summer months, particularly for waterfront sites and holiday weekends. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting 3-4 bars of coverage.
Water access represents a defining characteristic of camping in this coastal region. Campers frequently mention proximity to beaches, ponds, and Block Island Sound as primary attractions. Charlestown Breachway sites offer immediate oceanfront positioning where "sites 58-75 are waterfront" with excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Privacy levels vary dramatically between campgrounds and specific sites, with many visitors noting the importance of careful site selection. "Most of the sites have some degree of visual separation from their neighbors, but there are places where it's hard to tell where one site ends and the next one starts." Facilities typically include flush toilets and coin-operated showers, though maintenance quality fluctuates by location and season. Newport attractions lie within easy driving distance of several campgrounds, making the area popular with tourists using camping as a more affordable alternative to hotels.