Newport, Rhode Island's camping options span across Aquidneck Island and nearby areas, with most facilities positioned within 5-20 minutes of historic attractions. The region experiences moderate Atlantic coastal weather with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F and frequent ocean breezes. Fall camping remains popular through October when temperatures drop to 45-65°F and campgrounds begin seasonal closings.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10-minute drive to several beaches from Melville Ponds Campground. "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," notes a camper who appreciated the convenient location.
Fishing at multiple locations: Both freshwater pond fishing and saltwater options available within walking distance of some campgrounds. "Great place to camp and fish and hike great place to take a dog," writes a visitor about Melville Ponds, mentioning the on-site fishing opportunities.
Historic site tours: Several military installations and historic properties within 15-30 minutes of most campgrounds. "Convenient to Cliff Walk, Historic Newport, US Navy Base," reports a camper at Meadowlark RV Park who found the location ideal for sightseeing despite limited amenities.
Dog-friendly trails: Multiple parks offer pet-friendly 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," mentions an enthusiastic dog owner who stayed at Melville Ponds Campground.
What campers like
Water access: Several campgrounds offer pond or coastal views. At Carr Point Recreation Facility, campers enjoy "nice water views and close to a walkable beach," providing easy recreation options right from their sites.
Spacious campsites: Many parks offer adequate spacing between sites. "The distance between sites was far enough that you did not feel cramped or on top of your neighbor," reports a Melville Ponds visitor who appreciated the layout and privacy.
Proximity to attractions: Most campgrounds position visitors within 10-20 minutes of major Newport sights. "This is a cute little campground that's easy to access. It's 20 minutes from downtown Newport and about 45 minutes to downtown Providence," notes a camper who found the location convenient for day trips.
Cleanliness: Well-maintained facilities receive consistent praise. "Clean Bathrooms with music piped in. Love this place to pieces," writes a tent camper who appreciated the attention to detail at Melville Ponds Campground during a music festival visit.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Most Newport RV campgrounds operate from April through October with limited winter availability. "The park is open from April 15th to November 15th. Prices vary depending on the season, if you have a weekly/monthly rate, and the type of hook-ups you want," explains a visitor who paid $38/night for water and 30-amp service.
Site topography varies: Many campgrounds feature sloping terrain requiring leveling equipment. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back). Also, our site #215 was at the bottom of the hill, so it was a bit mucky," cautions a camper regarding site selection.
Limited dump stations: Plan your tank management carefully as some facilities lack on-site dump stations. "No sewer hookups or showers. The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10," mentions a military camper at Carr Point Recreation Facility.
Reservations essential: Summer and fall foliage seasons require advance planning, often 3-6 months ahead. "We stayed for the Newport folk fest in 2021 and although expensive because you have to stay four days it was worth it. Steve saved us honestly because we had no reservation here. By chance they had a cancellation," recounts a lucky festival-goer.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Sun Outdoors Mystic offers family-friendly recreation areas a short drive from Newport. "Our stay was in the spring before their busy season started so some things like the pool and water features were closed but the appearance was that it was well cared for and was a very popular attraction for families," notes a visitor.
Swimming options: Several parks feature ponds or pools for hot weather relief. "Pool looks nice though I guess, I've never dared to use it for fear of breaking one of the many unwritten and unspoken rules," comments a visitor to one area campground with a mix of humor and caution.
Activity planning: Limited on-site entertainment means bringing your own family activities. "This is camping, if you're looking for entertainment bring your own!" advises a camper who enjoyed the quiet atmosphere at a nearby Connecticut campground.
Pet restrictions: Review individual campground policies as they vary widely. "We had a great time at this small campground, very clean and nice staff. Not many amenities but we where there for the beaches and mansions. Will stay again," mentions a visitor who found the location perfect for accessing attractions despite limited on-site activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose Aces High RV Park for level sites and good hookups within driving distance of Newport. "Well organized campground with both water front back in sites as well as large pull throughs. Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors. Sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it," details an RVer.
Hookup reliability: Electric service varies between campgrounds with some offering 50-amp and others limited to 30-amp. "Clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio. Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should (other parks should come and take a look at how to do this right)," praises a visitor to Aces High.
Seasonal site conditions: Weather impacts site quality significantly in shoulder seasons. "Our site (#3) and noticed many sites had similar trees, but the owner keeps them trimmed to not interfere when parking on your site," appreciates a camper who visited in spring.
