Tent campsites near Manville, Rhode Island are concentrated primarily in smaller, wooded areas that offer seclusion while remaining accessible from nearby highways. The region experiences warm summers with average July temperatures around 82°F and cold winters, making May through October the primary camping season. Most sites require campers to pack out their trash as waste management services are limited throughout the area's natural camping zones.
What to do
Water activities at Wakefield Pond: Buck Hill Campground provides direct access to Wakefield Pond where visitors can swim, fish, and paddle. The pond offers relatively calm waters appropriate for beginner kayakers and canoeists.
Hiking at Breakheart Reservation: Camp Nihan Education Center connects directly to the Breakheart Reservation trail system. According to a camper, "The camp is adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty as well as bike trails and a range of different hikes."
Island exploration: Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers unique opportunities for day trips between islands. One visitor notes, "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids."
What campers like
Historical structures: The abandoned military installations at some campgrounds provide interesting exploration opportunities. A camper at Boston Harbor Islands mentioned, "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house."
Secluded camping spots: Arcadia Backpack Camping Area offers remote tent sites for those seeking quieter experiences away from developed campgrounds. The primitive sites require self-sufficiency but reward campers with increased privacy.
Sunset views: Several camping areas offer excellent sunset viewing opportunities. A Boston Harbor Islands camper shared, "You can build bon fires and see gorgeous sunsets," highlighting one of the natural experiences available at waterfront campsites.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds in the area fill quickly during peak season. A camper at Boston Harbor Islands advised, "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."
Rustic facilities: Most tent sites around Manville offer minimal amenities. Water access and bathroom facilities vary significantly between locations. At Frosty Hollow Camping Area, campers must be prepared to pack in their own water and utilize primitive toilet facilities.
Transportation logistics: Some camping areas require multiple transit methods. A Boston Harbor Islands camper explained, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with appropriate facilities: When camping with children, consider locations with reliable bathroom access. Camp Nihan received positive feedback from family groups: "The group site is super close to parking and yet the terrain is rugged enough that it always felt like we were really in the woods. A recently renovated bathroom and shower facility makes clean ups easy."
Plan for water activities: Swimming opportunities provide entertainment for children during summer camping trips. One parent noted about Camp Nihan, "The camp is also adjacent to Breakheart Reservation, which had a great shallow pond with life guard on duty."
Bring sufficient water supplies: Water's Edge Campground in Coventry offers tent sites but limited drinking water access. Families should calculate minimum water needs (1 gallon per person per day) and pack accordingly, especially during hot summer months.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent camping areas near Manville restrict or prohibit RV access. The few campgrounds accepting RVs typically offer only basic electric hookups without full water or sewer connections.
Size restrictions: Access roads to many campgrounds in the region have low clearance or tight turns unsuitable for larger RVs. Vehicles over 25 feet in length may find maneuvering difficult at most natural camping areas within 30 miles of Manville.
Alternative parking: Some tent campers with small RVs report success using nearby day-use parking areas and hiking to primitive campsites, though this requires advance permission from campground management.
