Tent camping opportunities near North Providence, Rhode Island require some advance planning during peak summer months. The region features a mix of established campgrounds and more primitive sites within a 30-mile radius. Most locations are situated in forested areas with varied terrain and limited cell service. Seasonal operations typically run from May through September with some sites closing after Labor Day weekend.
What to do
Water activities: Peddocks Island at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground offers swimming and kayaking opportunities. As one visitor notes, "While you're out on the islands, take time to explore one of the others...look for sea glass on Spectacle Island and climb the hill for a view of the Boston skyline."
History exploration: Abandoned military installations provide historical interest at several camping locations. "Exploring the island was awesome. We found all kinds of bunkers and a brick house," reports one camper who visited Lovells Island in Boston Harbor.
Berry picking: Seasonal wild fruits grow near several camping areas. One camper mentioned, "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
Fort exploration: Historical fortifications can be found at Arcadia Backpack Camping Area and other regional sites. A visitor shared that the Boston Harbor Islands has "an old fort to explore as well as a Rocky shoreline and trails."
What campers like
Seclusion: Tent campers appreciate the relative isolation of sites like Frosty Hollow. "This campground is only open during the summer months," noted one visitor about the Boston Harbor Islands camping areas.
Beach access: Sandy shorelines for swimming and relaxation are available at select locations. "Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it," mentioned one Lovells Island camper.
Rustic experience: The minimal development appeals to campers seeking an authentic outdoor experience. "The camping is rustic; you'll need to bring everything, including water," explained a Peddocks Island visitor.
Campfire opportunities: Beach bonfires are permitted in designated areas. "We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers," shared one resourceful camper at Lovells Island.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during summer months. One camper advised, "These sites book quickly, so you should try to book 7 months to the day in advance."
Transportation logistics: Ginny B Camp Grounds and other regional campgrounds may have limited access options. For island camping, prepare for multiple transportation legs: "We took all of our gear on the T to the harbor by the aquarium. We then took the ferry to Georges Island. After that we waited and got on a much smaller island to Lovells."
Water availability: Not all locations provide drinking water. "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods," cautions a Boston Harbor Islands camper.
Site availability concerns: Even with reservations, specific site selection can be challenging. A visitor noted, "When we got to the island we found that all of the sites had already been taken even though we had booked online months ahead."
Tips for camping with families
Ferry adventures: The boat transportation becomes part of the experience for kids visiting island sites. "Just getting to the island is a fun adventure," reports one family who camped at Peddocks Island.
Junior Ranger program: Children can participate in educational activities at certain locations. "Earn a Junior Ranger badge from the National Park Service," suggests a family who visited Boston Harbor Islands.
Site selection: Families should consider proximity to facilities when choosing sites. A visitor to Water's Edge Campground in Coventry recommends bringing "a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island."
Multi-island exploration: Day trips between camping locations add variety for children. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids," shares a family camper.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: The North Providence area has few RV-friendly tent camping locations. Most tent sites at LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area and similar locations cannot accommodate large vehicles.
Gear transport: Pack minimally for sites requiring ferry access. "Pack as lightly as possible and plan to carry or wheel it to your site," advises an experienced island camper.
Tent site alternatives: Some locations offer accommodation options beyond traditional tent sites. "The yurts on Peddocks are great, providing shelter from the elements, bunks with mattresses, electricity, a ceiling fan, table with benches, and a grill," describes a visitor.
