North Scituate, Rhode Island sits at approximately 400 feet above sea level in the western part of the state. This inland region experiences cooler temperatures than coastal areas, with summer highs typically in the 80s and winter lows frequently below freezing. Campgrounds in this wooded region offer good tree cover and natural terrain, making them popular from April through mid-October when most facilities operate.
What to do
Hiking trails: George Washington State Campground features several miles of trails surrounding the lake. "Big open sites, really quiet, great place to relax and hike," notes Kelly F. in her review of George Washington State Campground.
Disc golf course: West Thompson Lake Campground offers an on-site disc golf course for visitors looking for recreational activities. A recent visitor reports, "We had an excellent experience at this camp ground. The Staff and Rangers were polite and welcoming. We were able to see some boat races and played a round of disc golf on property."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple ponds and small lakes provide fishing spots throughout the region. "ThIs is a lovely campground with a beautiful beach, new pay shower and bathrooms. We enjoyed swimming and fishing," explains Thomas M. about his experience at George Washington State Campground.
What campers like
Private sites: Bowdish Lake Camping Area offers secluded camping spots with natural buffers. "We're at site Red 24 and it's very secluded and flat. This site is right next to the state park that's nearby, so it's fairly quiet," writes Taylor B. in her review of Bowdish Lake Camping Area.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept bathroom facilities. "Sites were well spaced and provided some privacy depending on your site choice. Grounds were well kept, bathrooms were very clean with hot showers (bring quarters, $1.50 for 6mins). Staff was friendly and helpful, with park rangers making regular rounds," notes Nick P. about George Washington State Campground.
Lake swimming: Several campgrounds offer swimming areas during summer months. A visitor to Wawaloam Campground describes, "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. The playground is nice."
What you should know
Price variations: Many campgrounds charge additional fees for pets, visitors or amenities. As Michelle H. points out about George Washington State Campground, "No hook-ups yet it cost $36 for out of state residents plus the fees which put it up to $44."
Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate from April to October with limited off-season options. At Holiday Acres Campground, which offers year-round access, a visitor notes, "We enjoyed this campground. It has a few bumps and bruises that could be improved but overall it was a safe place with lots of families."
Shower facilities: Shower quality varies significantly between campgrounds. "The new bathrooms are great! Lots of things to do in the area as well. Great food nearby," mentions Jessica W. about facilities at George Washington State Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with dedicated children's activities. "Pool and slide were great - wish the slides were open the whole day. It may have just been the time of year we were there though. Site was huge. Having food and ice cream there was a plus," shares Christine C. about Wawaloam Campground.
Site selection: Choose sites away from main roads for greater safety with children. At Newport RV Park, a camper reports, "It's well shaded, has a nice playground, bathhouse, and a laundry room. My biggest complaint is the dryers are terrible. I had to dry my clothes 3 times (that's 3 hours)."
Swimming options: Verify swimming area conditions before booking. "There is a nice beach for children. The water was warm and clean. You can kayak or canoe. The dogs cannot go on the beach, but they can go in the boats," explains Jessica W. about George Washington State Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring additional equipment. Brad B. notes about Newport RV Park, "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)."
Electrical considerations: Check power supply reliability before connecting. A visitor to Stateline Campresort & Cabins mentions, "We went on a Wednesday for a 5 day 4 night trip with the family. At first there was a little confusion at the office of where I was supposed to be... They accommodated us very well and we were reassigned to 178 and it was a nice level decently large site."
Dog friendly campgrounds near North Scituate: For those traveling with pets, Dyer Woods Nudist Campgrounds in Foster welcomes dogs. A visitor describes it as "A beautiful, peaceful, friendly, natural place. Love the grounds. Rustic with a traditional campground feeling."
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