Narragansett Pier camping options range from ocean-adjacent sites to wooded state parks within 15-30 minutes of Rhode Island's popular coastal attractions. Summer temperatures average 75-80°F with frequent cooling ocean breezes, while spring and fall camping brings milder 55-65°F temperatures. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from mid-April through mid-October with reduced amenities during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10-minute drive from Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground to several ocean beaches. "Best location ever to the beach. New facilities, clean and quiet campground," notes camper Sabine B., who appreciates the proximity to shorelines.
Fort exploration: 25-minute drive to historic coastal defenses with panoramic ocean views. "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," reports Lee D., highlighting accessible military ruins.
Kayaking: Multiple launch points around salt ponds and protected coastal areas. Fort Getty Campground offers direct water access where "you can bike for ever and go to the lake," according to Jody B., making it suitable for paddlers of varying skill levels.
Farmers market: Sunday mornings at Fishermens Memorial features local produce and artisan goods. "There is a nice playground and even a farmers market at the campground," mentions Cendy G., who found the market a convenient resource during her stay.
What campers like
Level campsites: Burlingame State Park Campground offers varied terrain options. "Hundreds of sites, some level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open," explains Andrew P., highlighting the campground's diverse site configurations.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms at most campgrounds despite heavy summer usage. "Bathrooms were super clean. Friendly park rangers," reports Rae H., who found maintenance standards consistently high even during busy periods.
Family-friendly water features: Wawaloam Campground provides extensive water recreation. "Large water park on the grounds with two swimming pools, a slash pad and large water slide," Michael P. notes, detailing the campground's aquatic amenities beyond natural water bodies.
Fishing access: Multiple ponds and coastal areas for anglers. "There are many people fishing and reeling them in. The campground has small boat ramp at the end," Justin F. observes at Charlestown Breachway, indicating productive fishing spots within walking distance of campsites.
What you should know
Higher non-resident fees: Rhode Island state parks charge substantial premiums for out-of-state visitors. "I'm used to paying $5 or even $10 more for being from out of state but here the fee is double or more for out-of-state campers," warns Lee D. about Fishermens Memorial pricing structure.
Campground noise variations: Traffic and generator sounds affect different camping areas. "Road noise continued throughout the night and there is a wind turbine on the property," reports Lee D., suggesting interior sites offer better sound buffering.
Limited off-season facilities: Most campgrounds reduce services after Labor Day. "Gates at check in can take some time, as well as finding your site," notes Madeline H., as staffing decreases during shoulder seasons.
Self-contained RV requirements: Charlestown Breachway State Park Campground demands specific equipment. "No running water. No electricity hookup. No dump station. Only trash and outhouses," cautions Jae H., emphasizing the need for fully self-sufficient systems.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Many campgrounds feature play equipment for different age groups. "There is a large seasonal camper section in the back, most are really well done, a few bad apples but overall nice. The front camping section is very pleasant and well spaced out," Greg S. describes at Wawaloam Campground.
Activities scheduling: Weekends feature more organized recreation than weekdays. "This is a well kept RV Park with large sites. The do not allow tents at all so it should be called an RV Park. The charge extra for pets per day. They have a huge clean pool and a water slide park (extra fee) and a mini golf course (extra fee)," David V. details about amenity costs.
Site selection strategy: Request sites away from main roads for safety with small children. "We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking," recommends Cendy G. at Whispering Pines Campground.
Dog-friendly trails: Several areas permit leashed pets on hiking paths. "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," Ilana F. highlights at Newport RV Park, noting convenient exercise options.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Bring extra blocks for uneven terrain. "Nice level site. Big pull through. Fireplace and picnic table are in good shape. Electric and water work," reports seafar96 about Fishermens Memorial, suggesting site-specific preparation.
Generator restrictions: Most campgrounds limit operating hours. "Generators only 8a-8p," Jean C. confirms at Charlestown Breachway, highlighting typical noise control policies.
Water accessibility: Public access points vary by location. "Water spigots were not in abundance but were available in each camp, yes this place is so big there are different camps within the park," Andrew P. notes at Burlingame, indicating the need to fill tanks strategically.
Campsite privacy variations: Wooded areas provide more separation than open fields. "The sites with the best views are the full hookups (water/electric/sewer) and the rates for out of state campers are significantly more than for residents," Lee D. explains, connecting site desirability with cost differences.
