North Smithfield camping options extend beyond the immediate town limits, with several facilities within a 30-mile radius. The area sits at elevations ranging from 200 to 500 feet above sea level in Rhode Island's northwest region, near the Massachusetts and Connecticut borders. Seasonal campers should note that summer humidity often reaches 70-80%, while spring and fall typically offer more comfortable camping conditions with daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: West Thompson Lake Campground offers catch-and-release fishing in their lake and adjoining river. "Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings. Fishing here is all catch and release," notes a camper at West Thompson Lake Campground.
Disc golf courses: Multiple campgrounds feature disc golf courses within their grounds or nearby. "About 5 min from great hiking at purgatory chasm," mentions a visitor to Sutton Falls Camping Area, highlighting the recreational diversity in the region.
Seasonal activities: Many campgrounds host themed weekend events throughout the season. "We went to their Oktoberfest that they did on Saturday and that was decorated great and the band and activities were good!" shares a Stateline Campresort visitor about fall programming.
Boating rentals: Several area lakes offer paddling options with reasonable rental rates. "Kids had a blast with the boat rentals and fishing," reports a camper who visited Sutton Falls, noting the availability of on-site watercraft.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Some campgrounds offer secluded sites away from crowds. "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," explains a visitor at Bowdish Lake Camping Area.
Clean facilities: Campground bathroom quality varies throughout the region. "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 a camper at George Washington State Campground.
Lake access: Waterfront locations remain a major draw. "We were delighted when we learned we had the little peninsula of site P1 all to ourselves. Stunning views across the large pond," shares a Sutton Falls visitor about their premium waterfront site.
Off-season value: Some campgrounds offer better experiences during shoulder seasons. "Called on Sunday morning and reserved a spot for 2 nights... Clean bath house and restrooms, quiet despite there being a pretty full park. Overall not bad for the off season cost of $30," notes a Stateline Campresort visitor.
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites that require preparation. "The site we stayed at (47) took a little leveling to get right but it was pretty nice having views of the water," explains a visitor to Sutton Falls.
Seasonal closures: Most facilities operate from April/May through October, with specific opening dates. "They have anything you could want. Spotlessly clean and wonderful employees. The pool is also great. The yurts are beautiful," shares a visitor at Normandy Farms Campground.
Electrical system quality: Some campgrounds have aging electrical systems that require caution. "Be very careful when you hook into their power, make sure you have a surge protector!!! We learned the hard way after staying Memorial day weekend," warns a Holiday Acres camper about potential electrical issues.
Dump station conditions: Waste disposal facilities vary in quality and design. "The dump station was so unlevel that we had to stop on the turnpike to dump our tanks properly," notes an Echo Lake Campground visitor about infrastructure limitations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specialized children's activities and facilities. "They had tons of festive activities. They have an indoor and an outdoor pool. The restrooms are clean. I highly recommend staying here. It was a lot of fun," explains a visitor to Normandy Farms about their Halloween celebration.
Beach quality: Swimming areas vary significantly between locations. "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," notes a visitor to George Washington State Campground.
Playground options: Some campgrounds feature updated play areas while others have older equipment. "This campground is fairly basic and on the older side with the playground and pool. We still had a great time," shares a visitor to Canoe River Campground.
Noise levels: Family campers should consider site location relative to activities. "The campground was very busy with families events activities, etc. If you prefer a noisy fun experience and a more social experience with your very close neighbors, this is the spot for you," advises a Canoe River visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV sites vary significantly in size and proximity to neighbors. "Campsites are big and well spaced. Bathrooms are best of any campground. Highly recommend," shares a Normandy Farms camper about their experience.
Hookup placement: Utilities are inconsistently positioned at different campgrounds. "The sites we were on were very unlevel and the water and electric were very far apart from each other," warns an Echo Lake visitor about potential connection challenges.
Gate policies: Some campgrounds restrict after-hours access. "Large campsites, Nice basketball court, Decent bathrooms for a state campground, only complain is that they close the gate to enter at 9pm," notes a West Thompson Lake camper about accessibility limitations.
Covered bridge clearance: Some campgrounds have entrance features that might concern large rig owners. "There's a covered bridge that scared me a little due to size concerns but its quite tall and wide enough. Our rig is 11'9" to the top of the A/C and we had no issues," reports a Sutton Falls visitor.
