4 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Middletown, Rhode Island provides a strategic base for coastal camping with several established campgrounds within a short drive. Meadowlark Campground and Second Beach Family Campground are located directly in Middletown, while Newport RV Park and Carr Point Recreation Facility are just minutes away in neighboring Portsmouth and Newport. Most facilities accommodate both tent and RV camping, with full hookup options widely available. The region's campgrounds typically operate seasonally from April through October, taking advantage of Rhode Island's pleasant coastal summer climate while avoiding harsh winter conditions.
Camping facilities throughout the area maintain varying regulations regarding pets, alcohol, and fires. "The campground is within driving distance of great fishing, biking and tourist areas," noted one visitor about nearby options. Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak summer months when beach access becomes a premium feature. Sites with water views or beach proximity fill quickly, especially on holiday weekends. The camping season generally runs from mid-spring through mid-fall, with most facilities closing between November and March. Cell phone coverage is generally good throughout the region, with most campgrounds reporting 3-4 bars of service on major carriers.
Proximity to coastal attractions represents a significant advantage for campers in the Middletown area. Newport's historic mansions, Narragansett's beaches, and Block Island ferry access are all within easy driving distance. A camper described Fort Getty Campground as having "perfect location for a summer/beach camp" with "private pet-friendly beaches" nearby. Several campgrounds feature waterfront locations or water access, though reviews indicate varying levels of privacy between sites. Visitors frequently mention the convenience of exploring both Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts attractions from these campgrounds. While some facilities offer basic amenities, others provide extensive recreational options including swimming pools, playgrounds, and organized activities. Price points vary significantly, with state parks generally offering more affordable rates than private campgrounds, though non-resident fees at state facilities can be substantially higher than resident rates.
"Excellent location for exploring the cites and beaches of Rhode Island!"
"We chose this park due to its location close to downtown Newport (a mere five miles). There is a lot to do in this area and we wanted to spend time sightseeing. "
from $70 - $140 / night
"Fisherman’s Memorial State Park is a large 182 site campground in Narragansett, Rhode Island."
"Lots of nearby beaches and restaurants. Campsites are simple. A patch of grass with a small bush or two, not very much shade, space or privacy."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $18 - $28 / night
"This is a great oceanfront campground located behind the dunes of Buzzards Bay."
"Horseneck Beach campground sites aren't particularly large, and are setup more for car camping and RVs than for tenting, but the site has great showers and a modern shower facility, and being able to walk"
Available this weekend
from $22 - $28 / night
"I've never camped in Rhode Island, so I was curious to see what a state park campground had to offer."
"Site wise no one was around us so it was extra quiet and the park rangers are always around so always help if you need it. Walmart is less than ten minutes away too if you’re needing anything."
from $18 - $50 / night
"Perfect location for a summer / beach camp. Mostly for RVs but tent site #6 was great. Views of the ocean to wake up too and tucked away from main area."
"Such a beautiful destination for tourists, travelers, & beach goers....Talk about being right on the water with access to excellent swimming."
"The view is nice and there's a recreation area next to the campground."
"Wawaloam Campground in Rhode Island was our 3rd state & campground on our East Coast trip. Not a lot of choices in Rhode Island, but we liked this camp ground in a rural wooded area.
"
from $50 - $75 / night
TravelerSmall but quaint park. It is the off season, but there are numerous folks here. Propane fill available. They stock the river behind the park with trout. Walking path in the woods along the river. Staff are friendly and helpful.
ScoutClean, nice and friendly camping experience
ScoutAmazing amenities and activities here. Staff is great. Lots of room for big rigs. Tent spots are shady while other ones are sunnier. They have rentals such as log cabins/ A-frames to rent also. Hot tubs and pools too!
ScoutAfter a busy summer, we wanted somewhere we could just park the camper and slow down for a few days. Sterling Park worked out great for that. We spent one morning fishing, walked the trails later in the day and finished the evening around the fire. Nothing complicated, just a really enjoyable camping weekend.
ScoutWe came with another family and had a blast. The kids disappeared together for half the day while the adults hung around the sites. Between fishing, the pool and the other activities, everyone found something they liked. Would definatly come back.
ScoutOur kids are already asking when we can go back. They loved the pool, playground and all the space to run around. We mostly just sat back and enjoyed having a few days off.
ScoutBrought our camper up for a long weekend and had plenty of room to relax. The campground store was also super handy when we realized we forgot a few things.
ScoutWe have been coming here seasonally and its become our little weekend escape. There is always something going on and the kids have made so many friends. Makes it easy to just pack a few things and head out.
ScoutNothing beats a slow morning at the campsite with a cup of coffee. We really enjoyed the trails and just walking around before everyone else was up.
Campsites near Middletown, Rhode Island occupy a strategic position on Aquidneck Island, where summer temperatures typically range from 60-80°F with moderate humidity. The camping season generally runs April through October, with most facilities closing during winter due to the region's freezing temperatures and snowfall. Cell service is reliable throughout the area's campgrounds, though signal strength varies based on specific location.
Fishing at local ponds: At Newport RV Park, campers have access to fishing opportunities right from the campground. "Great place to camp and fish and hike great place to take a dog," notes Kimbo K. about the ponds within walking distance of sites.
Dog park access: Several campgrounds provide dog-friendly amenities beyond just allowing pets. "We got a great pull through full hookup with a 5 minute walk to a huge dog park. There are also a bunch of beautiful trails right from the park," reports Ilana F. about Newport RV Park.
Water activities for children: Wawaloam Campground offers extensive water features. "This is kid heaven. Families laughing & enjoying themselves. Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing," explains Cynthia K. about the recreational options.
Proximity to Newport attractions: Camping near Middletown provides convenient access to Newport's historic sites. "The park is located within 1/2 mile of restaurants, gas stations, grocery, shopping, and more. Downtown historic Newport is a 10-minute drive away," explains Nancy W. about Melville Ponds Campground.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities. "Clean Bathrooms with music piped in. Love this place to pieces," shares emily H. about her stay at Melville Ponds. Cleanliness extends to other aspects as well, with another camper noting the "well maintained facility with nice camp sites."
Quiet atmosphere: For campers seeking peace away from urban noise, certain campgrounds offer more secluded experiences. "The whole campground is gorgeous. You'll notice how clean and quiet it is right when you first arrive," writes Nick P. about Melville Ponds Campground.
Out-of-state fees: Be prepared for significant non-resident surcharges at state parks. "A water/electric site for an out of state camper was $45 per night! This was our first visit to a Rhode Island State Park so not sure if they are all like this but this one definitely caters to Rhode Island residents who camp in large RVs!" reports Lee D. about Fishermens Memorial State Park.
Site variations: Campgrounds often have distinct sections with different features. At Fishermens Memorial State Park, "There are four areas, and each has advantages and disadvantages. Area One has the best views and full hookups but there is no bathhouse; Area Two also has full hookups, no view and some of the sites (55-65) are decidedly not level," details Lee D.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the Middletown area require advance booking, especially during summer months. Sites at Wawaloam Campground typically need reservations weeks ahead for weekend stays between June and August.
Kid-friendly activities: Burlingame State Park offers numerous activities for children. "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," shares Cendy G.
Space for play: Some campgrounds provide ample room for children to explore. "Spacious - even with all those sites, there's plenty of room between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek," notes Jessica A. about Burlingame State Park.
Beach access options: Families seeking beach activities have several options. "The great thing about this campground was the location to the beach which was across the street," explains Christy C. about Second Beach Family Campground, highlighting the easy walking access to swimming areas.
Site leveling needs: Come prepared with leveling blocks at many local campgrounds. "They also had a slight downhill slope so it required some extra blocks to level out," reports Nick P. about Melville Ponds Campground. Similarly, Brad B. warns, "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements."
Limited hookup options: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "Melville Ponds worked out the best for us because it was adjacent to a county park with wooded hiking trails, a large pond and an off-leash dog park which were very appealing because of our dog," explains Nancy W., who stayed at a site with only 30-amp and water connections.
Dump station availability: Plan for waste management needs in advance. At Carr Point Recreation Facility, "There are 6 spots with water and electric, there's a campground not too far with a dump station for $20," advises Kaitlin B. about the limited facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Second Beach Family Campground in Middletown?
Second Beach Family Campground offers basic amenities focused on a simple beach camping experience. The campground provides potable water access, toilet facilities, and reservable campsites. Its primary appeal is the exceptional location with direct access to Second Beach (Sachuest Beach), one of Rhode Island's premier beaches. While hookups are limited, the campground compensates with its prime positioning for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. For those seeking more extensive amenities nearby, Meadowlark Campground offers additional facilities while still providing convenient access to Middletown's attractions.
How much does camping cost in Middletown, Rhode Island?
Camping costs in Middletown and surrounding Rhode Island areas vary significantly based on residency status and amenities. Rhode Island state parks like Burlingame State Park Campground charge reasonable rates for state residents (typically $20-30/night) but substantially higher fees for out-of-state visitors (around $40-45/night) even for basic sites with limited amenities. Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground charges approximately $45/night for water/electric sites for non-residents. Private campgrounds generally range from $35-75/night depending on hookups and seasonal timing, with peak summer rates being highest along the coast.
Where are the best campgrounds in Middletown, RI?
Middletown offers excellent camping options with Second Beach Family Campground being the top choice within town limits. For those willing to venture slightly beyond Middletown, Newport RV Park provides an excellent location for exploring Rhode Island's coastal attractions, including Newport's famous mansions and beaches. The park features both sunny and shaded sites on gently sloping terrain, requiring some leveling. Middletown's strategic location also makes it a perfect base camp for day trips to other notable Rhode Island camping destinations while enjoying proximity to Newport's amenities and shoreline.
Keep Exploring
