Campground options near North Kingstown, Rhode Island range from basic tent sites to full-amenity RV parks, with most facilities situated along the coastal areas or within wooded state parks. The region experiences mild summers with average temperatures between 65-85°F from June through September, making it ideal for extended camping trips. Water access becomes a defining feature for many campers, with several campgrounds offering pond or ocean proximity.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Burlingame State Park Campground offers extensive pathways through wooded areas. One visitor noted, "You can bike for ever and go to the lake! Camp store literally has anything you would need." The park's size allows for extended exploration with multiple trail options.
Fishing opportunities: Newport RV Park provides access to a fishing pond within walking distance. A camper mentioned, "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."
Water activities: Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground serves as a base for beach activities. According to one review, "Best location ever to the beach. New facilities, clean and quiet campground." Its proximity to the ferry to Block Island makes it a convenient starting point for island exploration.
Day trips to Newport: Melville Ponds Campground (Newport RV Park) offers convenient access to Newport's attractions. A reviewer explained, "The location of this park was great because it was adjacent to a county park with wooded hiking trails, a large pond and an off-leash dog park which were very appealing because of our dog."
What campers like
Beach access: Carr Point Recreation Facility offers waterfront views and beach proximity. A visitor mentioned, "Nice water views and close to a walkable beach. About 20 minutes to downtown Newport, so this made visiting the town easy."
Pool and water features: Wawaloam Campground provides extensive water recreation options. A camper described, "Pool and slide were great - wish the slides were open the whole day. Site was huge. Having food and ice cream there was a plus."
Clean facilities: Mystic KOA maintains exceptional cleanliness standards. One reviewer stated, "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," highlighting the importance of facility maintenance to overall camping satisfaction.
Historic surroundings: Fort Getty Campground offers access to former military installations. A camper noted, "Such a beautiful destination for tourists, travelers, & beach goers....Talk about being right on the water with access to excellent swimming. Such a lovely vantage point with your tent location from the top of FORT GETTY."
What you should know
Price variations: Burlingame State Park Campground charges different rates for in-state versus out-of-state campers. A visitor explained, "Price - dirt cheap if you are a RI resident, but pricey if you aren't."
Site leveling challenges: Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground requires leveling equipment at certain sites. One camper remarked, "Area Two also has full hookups, no view and some of the sites (55-65) are decidedly not level."
Seasonal differences: Whispering Pines Campground has varying amenities based on season. A visitor cautioned, "I believe we camped there too early in the season to fully enjoy the grounds. The pool, splash pad, and nearly everything else was non operational or locked up still."
Reservation timing: During peak summer months, reservations at Burlingame State Park Campground should be made well in advance. A reviewer warned, "Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Wawaloam Campground offers multiple water features specifically for children. A reviewer described, "This is kid heaven. Families laughing & enjoying themselves. Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing."
Playground access: Whispering Pines Campground provides numerous children's activities. A visitor mentioned, "The kids got to enjoy a brand new splash pad which was great and a small train ride around the park."
Planned activities: Mystic KOA coordinates regular events for children. A camper noted, "This KOA provides a lot to do for kids and families. 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."
Bathhouse proximity: At Burlingame State Park Campground, family campsites should be selected near bathroom facilities. A reviewer advised, "Bath houses - are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Mystic KOA offers varied RV site options. A camper recommended, "If you want to be up near the action– pool, bar car, and other activities– get a site in the front section. We wanted to be as far away from that as possible."
Dump station access: Carr Point Recreation Facility requires planning for waste disposal. A reviewer noted, "The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10," highlighting the need to budget for this additional expense.
Seasonal considerations: Meadowlark RV Park operates with limited facilities. A camper explained, "This is a very crowded mobile home park that has a few motorhome/RV sites. No amenities such as shower or toilets. They do accept and honor Good Sam and Military for a 10% discount."
Electrical capacity: Newport RV Park provides specific hookup options. A visitor detailed, "The park has over 100 sites and spread out over many acres. Site types include full hook-up (max 30 amp), water/electric only, dry camping, and a large tent section."
