Tent campsites near North Kingstown, Rhode Island are concentrated in western Rhode Island's forested areas, particularly within the 14,000-acre Arcadia Management Area. The region experiences humid continental climate with average summer temperatures reaching 80°F during prime camping months from May through September. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close after the fall season.
What to do
Paddling access: Water's Edge Campground provides direct water access for campers bringing canoes or kayaks. The campground's multiple access options include boat-in sites for paddlers exploring the local waterways.
Fishing opportunities: Buck Hill Campground sits along Wakefield Pond, offering fishing without the crowds. A camper notes: "The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities. This is the type of campground to just come and unwind, fish, cook, etc don't expect much else."
Island exploration: For those willing to travel to Washburn Island Campsites, the boat-access-only experience provides unique waterfront camping. "Small island with 10 camp sites (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night. Fire pits at each site with wood on sale at the ranger hut," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Quiet shoulder seasons: Camping outside peak summer months offers more solitude at many campgrounds near North Kingstown. At Washburn Island, "Campsites can be reserved 6 months in advance so it is tough to get one during the summer months but great camping in May, September, and October as well. Camped there May 20 - 25 2018 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used."
Group camping setups: Buck Hill Campground features clustered sites ideal for larger groups. "All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents). Many of the sites are also along Wakefield Pond (big enough lake for canoe/kayak/etc)."
Waterfront access: Many tent camping options near North Kingstown feature waterfront access. At Buck Hill, "There's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything. The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most primitive campsites in the region operate with minimal facilities. For example, Frontier Family Camper Park operates seasonally from May through September but offers minimal amenities for tent campers.
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds in the Arcadia Management Area require advance reservations, including LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area and Arcadia Backpack Camping Area, both of which can be booked through the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
Transportation logistics: For island camping options, plan your transportation carefully. At Washburn Island Campsites, "You need a boat or a ride out there, close to the main land so a canoe/kayak would work."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: For families with children, Ginny B Camp Grounds provides drinking water, showers, toilets, and trash service—making it more suitable for families needing basic amenities during their stay.
Fire safety knowledge: Many campgrounds allow fires but have specific regulations. At Buck Hill Campground, campers should note fire regulations can change seasonally and some sites have covered patio areas with electricity that provide alternative cooking options.
Pack additional water: Most primitive tent camping sites in the Arcadia Management Area, including Frosty Hollow Camping Area, lack drinking water facilities despite offering electrical hookups and designated fire areas.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Frosty Hollow Camping Area offers electrical hookups for RVers requiring power, including both 30-amp and 50-amp service options, despite its otherwise primitive facilities.
Dump station access: Water's Edge Campground includes a sanitary dump station for RVers, making it a practical option for tent campers traveling with RV companions who need to empty holding tanks before or after their stay.
Limited big rig access: None of the campgrounds within 30 miles of North Kingstown are designated as big-rig friendly, requiring RVers with larger vehicles to carefully research access roads and site dimensions before booking.
