Tent camping near Middletown, Rhode Island offers experiences ranging from primitive backcountry sites to more developed facilities with basic amenities. The area sits at low elevation, typically under 200 feet above sea level, creating mild camping conditions even in shoulder seasons. Most campgrounds in the region experience high humidity during summer months with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Paddling access: Washburn Island Campsites at Waquoit Bay Reserve requires boat transportation to reach the campsites. The island setup creates a unique water-focused camping experience. A camper notes, "You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the main land so a canoe/kayak would work."
Fishing opportunities: The pond at Buck Hill Campground provides freshwater fishing options. "The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities... This is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc. don't expect much else," one visitor explains.
Horseback riding: LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area accommodates equestrian campers with designated spaces designed for those traveling with horses. The camp's connection to trail systems makes it suitable for multi-day riding excursions, though facilities remain basic.
What campers like
Waterfront views: Tent sites at Waquoit Bay Reserve offer direct water vistas. "All with views of the water very quiet at night. Fire pits at each site with wood on sale at the ranger hut," shares a camper who visited during the off-season.
Uncrowded camping: Many campgrounds in the region have limited visitation during shoulder seasons. At Waquoit Bay Reserve, one camper reported, "Camped there May 20-25 2018 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used."
Group camping options: Buck Hill Campground features large group sites rather than individual plots. "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)," writes one visitor, making it ideal for scout troops or family reunions.
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Popular sites book quickly during peak season. For Waquoit Bay Reserve, "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well."
Limited facilities: Most tent camping locations near Middletown offer minimal amenities. Ginny B Camp Grounds provides basic drinking water, toilets and showers, but lacks electrical hookups or modern conveniences.
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Frontier Family Camper Park runs only from May 1 to September 30, while Waquoit Bay Reserve operates from "mid May to Columbus Day," restricting off-season camping options.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming areas: Some campgrounds offer water access suitable for children. At Buck Hill, "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."
Covered shelters: Arcadia Backpack Camping Area provides some sites with simple shelters that can offer protection during unexpected weather, making it more suitable for families with young children who need weather contingency options.
Toilet facilities: Bathroom options vary widely between campgrounds. Buck Hill offers "a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties," which may present challenges for families with very young children who need more developed facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Middletown offer minimal RV services. Frosty Hollow Camping Area does provide both electric and water hookups, but the campground isn't designed for large rigs.
Separate tent and RV areas: Several campgrounds segregate camping types, allowing tent campers to avoid generator noise and traffic from larger vehicles. Water's Edge Campground maintains distinct camping sections, with tent areas typically located further from roadways.
Dump station availability: When breaking camp, RVers should note that sanitary dump facilities are limited in the region, with only a few campgrounds like Water's Edge offering this service, requiring advance planning for waste management.
