Campgrounds near Kingston, Rhode Island offer varied terrain across southern New England's coastal woodlands and pond areas. Most sites sit at elevations between 50-200 feet above sea level in a humid continental climate with mild summers averaging 75-85°F. Many campgrounds open mid-April through October, with peak season bringing higher weekend occupancy rates in July and August.
What to do
Beach access: 1-2 miles: At Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground, the proximity to coastal activities stands out. "Great spot for tent camping. Clean and quiet. Bathrooms were super clean. Friendly park rangers. Love the closeness to the ferry to block island, shops & restaurants," notes Rae H., highlighting the convenient location.
Kayaking options: 5-10 minute walk: Charlestown Breachway provides direct water access from camp. "It very close to the beach….steps away. There is a more 'private' sandy area near the water sites where we were able to pull up a chair and sit in the water," shares Justin F. The campground includes "a small boat ramp at the end; Great place to bring the kayaks for sure."
Hiking trails: multiple loops: The trails near Whispering Pines Campground cross state lines. "We drove about 10 min to some awesome trails which literally crossed the Connecticut and Rhode Island border," reports Sean R. These trails provide moderate hiking options with varied terrain.
Off-season activities: limited availability: Early spring camping may find some amenities closed. "I believe we camped there too early in the season to fully enjoy the grounds. The pool, splash pad, and nearly everything else was non operational or locked up still," explains Sean R. about Whispering Pines Campground.
What campers like
Historic sites: World War II bunkers: Campers appreciate the historical structures at Fishermens Memorial State Park. "There are the remains of two bunkers but other than walking by them, you cannot go inside. One (in Area One) is a grassy knoll with stairs to a lookout," explains Lee D.
Family facilities: recreation options: Wawaloam Campground receives high marks for its array of amenities. "Large sites, great stone fire rings, full hookups, huge pool, waterslides, splash pad, playground, great camp store... this place brings a lot to the table for a very fair price of 60 bucks," notes Greg S.
Tent-specific areas: wooded sections: Tent campers find dedicated spaces at several parks. "Tent site #6 was great. Views of the ocean to wake up too and tucked away from main area," shares Steve T. about Fort Getty Campground, though he notes: "Worst part is you can't bring your car on the site."
Pet-friendly beaches: private access: Fort Getty provides small but dedicated pet beaches. "The private pet friendly beaches were great! Small but perfect to relax. No problems with the pets at all," notes Steve T., making this a good option for pet friendly camping near Kingston.
What you should know
Generator restrictions: varied by park: Charlestown Breachway limits generator usage. "The campground only allows generators to be run from 0800-2000. Even though it was in the high 80's, we barely ran the generator during the day. There was such a nice breeze," reports Justin F.
Bath facilities: limited hours: Some campgrounds restrict bathroom access. At Charlestown Breachway, "there were compost bathrooms available but they were only open from 0830-1700," notes Justin F., important information for those without self-contained facilities.
Weekend noise levels: varies by location: Some campgrounds have noise management challenges. At Fort Getty Campground, campers report: "Loud music, bright lights until 3am. Zero enforcement of 10pm curfew in sites 16 and above," according to Andrea D.
Site layout challenges: Tent camping areas sometimes have limited privacy. "There is no privacy, people were constantly walking through our site and stepping over our tent guy lines," reports Kimberly S. about Fort Getty Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Budget options: state parks: Affordability varies at Rhode Island campgrounds. "Very affordable (around $14 per night). We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking," notes Cendy G. about Burlingame State Park.
Kid-specific amenities: water features: Several campgrounds offer water recreation. "We got to enjoy a brand new splash pad which was great and a small train ride around the park," writes Johnny W. about Whispering Pines Campground, ideal for families seeking pet friendly camping options near Kingston.
Campground size considerations: Larger campgrounds may present navigation challenges. "Burlingame is HUGE. Gates at check in can take some time, as well as finding your site," shares Madeline H.
Bathroom cleanliness: variable by season: Facility maintenance varies widely. "Bathrooms are usually always busy, and are pretty dirty from people coming back from the beach. SAND EVERYWHERE!" notes Madeline H. about Burlingame State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: prepare for adjustments: Many sites require leveling equipment. At Melville Ponds Campground (Newport RV Park), "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)," advises Brad B.
Pull-through availability: limited options: Some campgrounds offer convenient drive-through sites. "We had a great pull through full hookup with a 5 minute walk to a huge dog park," reports Ilana F. about Melville Ponds Campground, making it a top choice for pet friendly camping near Kingston, Rhode Island.
Water/electric-only sections: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Site types include full hook-up (max 30 amp), water/electric only, dry camping, and a large tent section," explains Nancy W. about Melville Ponds Campground.
Seasonal considerations: weather comfort: Rhode Island's coastal climate affects camping comfort. "It was actually quite comfortable at night. We had our windows open but curtains down to keep it dark," shares Justin F. about summer camping at Charlestown Breachway.
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