The Rhode Island coastline offers RV campers a unique combination of maritime heritage, coastal access, and historic sites. Campgrounds near North Kingstown sit at sea level with average summer temperatures between 70-85°F and winters rarely dropping below 20°F. The camping season typically runs April through October, with a few year-round options available for campers seeking accommodations during the off-season.
What to do
Beach access options: Campers staying at Melville Ponds Campground can easily reach popular beaches within 20 minutes. "We were there for the beaches and mansions. Will stay again," notes one visitor who used the campground as a base for exploring Aquidneck Island's shoreline.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer on-site fishing or nearby access to ponds and coastal waters. One camper at Melville Ponds mentioned, "There is a nice pond to go fishing at as well. About an 20 min drive to local beaches."
Dog-friendly activities: Pets can enjoy dedicated areas at many campgrounds, with one visitor to Melville Ponds Campground praising "a huge dog park" just a five-minute walk from their site, plus "beautiful trails right from the park."
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds offer woodland hiking options directly from your site. As one camper noted about Melville Ponds, "The nearby hiking trail was perfect for our dog and while it was just a few miles long, it was great because it was within walking distance and she could swim in the pond."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Some parks offer premium waterfront sites overlooking ponds or lakes. A visitor at Aces High RV Park commented on their "Premium Waterfront FHU Site" with "beautiful view" and "clean, well-maintained, and level site with concrete pad and patio."
Convenient base for regional exploration: Many campgrounds serve as strategic hubs for exploring Rhode Island's attractions. One camper at Carr Point Recreation Facility appreciated that it was "about 20 minutes to downtown Newport, so this made visiting the town easy."
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention cleanliness as a top factor. At Aces High RV Park, a guest noted, "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)."
Spacious sites: Many RV sites near North Kingstown, Rhode Island offer adequate separation between neighbors. A reviewer at Aces High RV Park appreciated how "pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most RV parks in the region operate April through October or November, with limited year-round options. One camper at Meadowlark RV Park noted it's "a very crowded mobile home park that has a few motorhome/RV sites" but is "convenient to Cliff Walk, Historic Newport, US Navy Base."
Limited amenities at some locations: Several parks offer only basic services. A Meadowlark RV Park visitor mentioned "no amenities such as shower or toilets" but appreciated that they "accept and honor Good Sam and Military for a 10% discount."
Site surfaces vary: Be prepared for different pad materials across parks. At Aces High RV Park, one camper described "sites and roads are a pea gravel material and each site has large grassy areas around it."
Distance to attractions: Most campgrounds require short drives to reach beaches and historic sites. A reviewer at Sun Outdoors Mystic stated it's "in a great location for exploring Mystic. You are close to downtown, the aquarium, Mystic Seaport and other attractions."
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: When camping with children, seek out campgrounds with swimming options. At Sun Outdoors Mystic, one visitor observed that "the appearance was that it was well cared for and was a very popular attraction for families" though noting their spring visit meant "the pool and water features were closed."
Playground quality: Check recent reviews for playground condition. Sun Outdoors Mystic impressed one camper who noted, "The mini golf course was actually really nice and not the run-down homemade ones that you usually see at campgrounds."
Recreation activities: Some parks offer organized activities for children. A visitor to Aces High RV Park mentioned it has "a clean playground and well maintained pool as well as some walking paths, large grassy areas, pavilion and volleyball court."
Pet-friendly sites: For families traveling with dogs, look for dedicated pet areas. One camper at Aces High RV Park appreciated the "creek area for dog swimming. Our two labs loved it!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for various grading conditions at RV sites near North Kingstown, Rhode Island. A visitor to Thousand Trails Gateway to Cape Cod noted that "roads are in bad shape, especially the entrance" though they still considered it "a good campground" overall.
Seasonal considerations: Be aware of potential tree-related issues. A Gateway to Cape Cod camper warned that "trees can drop a lot of sap so be ready to wash your rig and vehicles as soon as you leave if it was a heavy sap time."
Utility connections: Check what hookups are available before booking. At Carr Point Recreation Facility, a camper mentioned "there are 6 spots with water and electric, there's a campground not too far with a dump station for $20."
Cell service and WiFi quality: Coverage varies between locations. A Gateway to Cape Cod visitor reported "cell reception was not good, neither with AT&T nor Verizon. They have Wifi at the park which I haven't tried."
