Cabin camping near Newport, Rhode Island offers accommodations within a 30-40 mile radius across Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. Most cabins remain open from April through October, with a few year-round options available. Water and electric availability varies significantly between locations, with primitive cabins requiring guests bring their own linens and bedding.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: At George Washington State Campground, trails surround the property with lake access. "There's fishing and hiking right in the park," notes Nick S., while another visitor mentions "Hiking and biking for miles" as a highlight of their stay.
Water activities: Swimming and paddling options exist at several locations. Whispering Pines offers "pool, splash pad, live music and activities for the kids," according to Eddy B. The campground's recent upgrades include new recreational facilities that families particularly appreciate during summer stays.
Entertainment options: Strawberry Park provides structured activities for rainy days. "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade," reports Michelle D. The campground runs regular scheduled activities including bingo nights and arts programs.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Sites at Burlingame State Park Campground offer variable spacing. "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," explains Jessica A. The campground's layout provides both wooded and open grass site options.
Beach access: East Beach State Campground provides oceanfront options. "Mostly less developed beach area, peaceful shoreline with essential amenities," writes Lyssa M. This campground requires self-contained vehicles as it lacks onsite showers or toilets.
Recreational facilities: Normandy Farms Campground maintains four swimming pools including an indoor heated option. "It has a dog park and has owners that are one family who makes this place hum!!! It is not a 5 star, it is a 10 star!!!" states Sandie B. The property also includes a fitness room, creative arts center, and 20,000 square-foot activities building.
What you should know
Campground size variations: Whispering Pines has 210 sites compared to Burlingame's 700+. "Big and wild but the staff is rude and useless. Campgrounds are very close from one another," cautions Sebastien R. about Burlingame. Site spacing and privacy differ significantly between properties.
Bathroom conditions: Facilities vary widely between locations. At Mystic KOA, "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," reports Kay B., while Burlingame receives frequent complaints about bathroom cleanliness.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some properties. At Mystic KOA, "You can hear the highway very well at night, particularly in the safari field," notes Cynthia K. Weekend stays at most properties involve higher occupancy and noise levels than weekdays.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate activities: The Giddyup Getaway at River Haven Sanctuary provides cabin-only accommodations with basic amenities. This newer addition to the area offers drinking water, picnic tables, showers and toilets, making it suitable for families seeking a simpler cabin experience.
Swimming options: Campground water features vary from ocean beaches to splash pads. "The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept. And then there's mini golf, hay rides, and lots of fun planned activities," says Cynthia K. about Mystic KOA. Parents should check water depths and supervision requirements before arrival.
Budget considerations: Non-resident fees apply at state parks. At George Washington State Campground, "it cost $36 for out of state residents plus the fees which put it up to $44," reports Michelle H. Private campgrounds typically charge higher rates but include more amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection factors: Boston/Cape Cod KOA offers variable site quality. "I have learned that you really need to upgrade to the better campsites to enjoy your stay... I booked a basic 30 amp fullhook up campsite and it was so tight that unfortunately I did not enjoy it as much as I wanted to," advises Janet P. Premium sites typically provide more space and better positioning.
Hookup availability: Full service options exist at select locations. "There are only a couple of 'primitive' sites here," mentions Cynthia K. about Mystic KOA, which caters primarily to RV campers with full hookups. Most cabin properties offer at least electrical connections within the units.
Seasonal considerations: Burlingame State Park experiences high occupancy during summer. "Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed," warns Jessica A. Reservations for cabins at all locations should be secured months in advance for summer stays, especially holiday weekends.
