George Washington State Campground features tent-only sites numbered T1-T5, with T5 being the most private and spacious. Located in a heavily forested section of Rhode Island, the campground sits at an elevation of approximately 450 feet and experiences cooler temperatures than coastal areas of the state. Weekend camping trips require advance booking during summer months, when temperatures average 75-85°F during the day and drop to 60-65°F at night.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The stocked lake at George Washington State Campground provides excellent fishing for families and enthusiasts. "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded. There's fishing and hiking right in the park," notes Nick S. The lake allows catch-and-release fishing only.
Disc golf course: West Thompson Lake Campground, located 20 minutes from Pascoag, offers an on-site disc golf course that winds through the wooded terrain. "Has great hiking trails going around some lakes. Clean showers," mentions Joey S. The course is free to use for registered campers.
Kayaking: West Thompson Lake Campground provides excellent paddling opportunities on calm waters. "The lake and adjoining river offer hours of fun for small craft. Take a long paddle up the river and you'll be escorted by hundreds of bluebirds and cedar waxwings," reports Cynthia K. Kayak rentals cost approximately $25 for half-day use.
What campers like
Spacious tent sites: Secluded tent camping options exist throughout the region. "This site is right next to the state park that's nearby, so it's fairly quiet. I think we are one of the only tent campers here this weekend, seems like a lot of seasonal camping with RVs. But it appears that most of the sites are very private," shares Taylor B. about Bowdish Lake Camping Area.
Water access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Pascoag feature direct water access. "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 camping at George Washington State Campground.
Natural surroundings: Stateline Campresort & Cabins features wooded sites with natural privacy. "Clean, wooded and open sites some overlook a large pond. Boat rentals, pool, game room available. The site we had overlooked the pond and was perfect," says Tony O. The campground maintains a mix of wooded and open sites to accommodate different preferences.
What you should know
Shower costs: Pay showers are standard at most campgrounds in the area. "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)," advises Nick P. about his stay at George Washington State Campground.
Non-resident fees: Rhode Island state parks charge higher rates for out-of-state visitors. "Nice campground with big private spots. Nice bathhouse with pay showers. Pretty, man made lake with a beach area for swimming and paddling. Cons: no hook-ups yet it cost $36 for out of state residents plus the fees which put it up to $44," reports Michelle H.
Limited swimming: Not all lakes and ponds in the area permit swimming. At West Thompson Lake Campground, "The lake is pretty but you cannot swim or eat the fish. There are a lot of choices for hiking including a disc golf course," states Deborah B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Pet-friendly campgrounds with children's play areas provide dual benefits for families with dogs and kids. "The camp store is small but well stocked and the prices are very good. The beachfront is nice, the canoe and kayak rental is reasonable," notes Michael K. about his stay at Holiday Acres Campground.
Security considerations: Family-oriented campgrounds generally prioritize safety with regular patrols. "All entrances are gated with key codes and there was a security guard on staff part of the time. The office staff was super nice and understanding when I lost my way coming into the wrong gate," adds Michael K.
Seasonal activities: Many dog-friendly campgrounds near Pascoag run themed weekends during summer months. "We went to their Oktoberfest that they did on Saturday and that was decorated great and the band and activities were good! Overall we had a really good time and would recommend this campground for others," shares Johnny W. about Stateline Campresort & Cabins.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: RV campers should request information about site grading before arrival. "I was on site 87 and was able to level on the first try. The campground is a little tight with a big rig (40' motorhome pulling a vehicle on a dolly). The sites are a decent size and consist mainly of gravel and grass," reports Rick C. from Circle Campground Farm Campground.
Electric reliability: Verify electrical service capability with management prior to arrival. "We had site C-16, and the way the have the power and water arrangement, we had to run 50ft of hose and 30 amp cord," warns Bruce Y. Some campgrounds require additional equipment for certain sites.
Off-season advantages: Spring and fall camping offers reduced rates and greater site availability. "Called on Sunday morning and reserved a spot for 2 nights. Was very helpful on the phone, though was not informed that on Sunday the office and store closes early at 3 but was still able to check in easy enough. Clean bath house and restrooms, quiet despite there being a pretty full park. Overall not bad for the off season cost of $30," reports Kwan C.