Top Free Dispersed Camping near Newport, RI

Camping near Newport, Rhode Island, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and family-friendly activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

• Explore the beaches: Newport is famous for its stunning beaches. Many campgrounds, like Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground, are just a short drive from the shore. One reviewer mentioned, "Not far from ROGER WHEELER BEACH & SCARBOROUGH BEACH... right down the street from great RI food."

• Visit local attractions: Check out the nearby attractions like the Newport Mansions or the Cliff Walk. Campers at Mystic KOA enjoyed its proximity to Mystic Aquarium and downtown Mystic, saying, "This campground is just 15-minutes from Mystic."

• Hiking and biking: Many campgrounds are near trails. For instance, Wompatuck State Park Campground offers great hiking opportunities. A visitor noted, "You can take a trail from the campsite."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. One happy camper at Normandy Farms Campground said, "The bathrooms/showers are spotless with piped in music and hairdryers."
• Family-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. A reviewer at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground mentioned, "Very lush and green, and the showers are close to the sites and make longer stays more comfortable."
• Spacious sites: Campers enjoy having enough room for their gear. At Boston/Cape Cod KOA, one visitor said, "Site 309 was a pull-thru with a fire-pit, cement pad gas grill, chairs and table, level site with grass for dog not all sandy."

What you should know:

• Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Massasoit State Park Campground advised, "I recommend having reservations if you want to stay at this campground."
• Check for amenities: Not all campgrounds have the same features. For example, Wompatuck State Park Campground has electric hookups but no water hookups. A visitor noted, "There isn’t much to the RV sites but an electric plug."
• Be prepared for bugs: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the summer. A camper at Shawme Crowell State Forest mentioned, "Bug spray and fans are a definite when sitting outside due to mosquitoes."

Tips for camping with families:

• Look for playgrounds: Many campgrounds have playgrounds nearby. A parent at Shawme Crowell State Forest said, "The playground was also just up the hill from us and was a HUGE hit with our 3-year-old."
• Plan for activities: Choose campgrounds that offer organized activities for kids. Campers at Mystic KOA enjoyed the family-friendly events, saying, "Family movies, trick or treating and hay rides all as part of the stay."
• Pack extra snacks: Kids can get hungry during outdoor activities. A camper at Normandy Farms Campground mentioned, "We did not get a chance to enjoy the amenities, but they all looked nice and well thought out."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site levels: Some sites may not be level, so bring leveling blocks. A reviewer at Wompatuck State Park Campground said, "We recommend this campground but just be prepared and bring plenty of leveling blocks!"
• Choose the right section: Some campgrounds have better sites for larger RVs. A camper at Fishermen’s Memorial State Campground advised, "My advice is to book the back section if you're a big Class A with a toad."
• Be mindful of noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy at night. A visitor at Rocky Neck State Park Campground noted, "Overnight noise was an issue. Lots of cars coming and going."

With these tips and insights, you're all set for a great camping experience near Newport, RI!