Numerous campsites surround Pascoag, Rhode Island, situated in the northwestern corner of the state at an elevation of approximately 500 feet. The area receives about 45 inches of annual rainfall, creating lush forested surroundings for campers. Most campgrounds in this region close between late October and mid-April due to the New England winter weather patterns, with daytime temperatures averaging 30°F during winter months.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Campers at Douglas Forest RV Resort can explore adjacent woodland trails minutes from their campsite. "You're literally steps away from Douglas State Forest, which made morning hikes and evening strolls absolutely magical," notes one visitor. The forest features over 5 miles of marked hiking paths suitable for all skill levels.
Fishing opportunities: Several stocked ponds and lakes within 20 minutes of Pascoag provide fishing options. At Countryside RV Park, campers mention the easy access to local fishing spots. "Great place to camp and fish and hike," reports one guest, with nearby bodies of water containing bass, trout, and sunfish.
Local attractions: The Pascoag area serves as a convenient base for regional day trips. "Drive times to major cities include Boston (60min), Hartford (62min), Providence (42min), Albany (120min), Portsmouth (106min)," according to visitors at Douglas Forest RV Resort. Historic Mystic Seaport is approximately 45 minutes away.
What campers like
Pool amenities: Despite varying quality, most Pascoag area RV parks offer swimming facilities. At Sun Outdoors Mystic, formerly Seaport RV Resort, one reviewer noted, "The appearance was that it was well cared for and was a very popular attraction for families." Several campgrounds maintain heated pools open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Spacious sites: Site dimensions vary significantly between parks. At Aces High RV Park, campers appreciate "large pull throughs. Pull through sites also have lots of space between them so you don't feel like you are on top of the neighbors." These sites typically accommodate RVs up to 45 feet with slide-outs.
Natural settings: Many campgrounds retain wooded surroundings. "Beautiful pond and natural setting with lots of ducks, geese, chickens, and wild birds," wrote one camper about Aces High RV Park, while another mentioned "shade trees on our site and noticed many sites had similar trees."
What you should know
Electrical system quality: Power infrastructure varies drastically between parks, with some campgrounds experiencing significant issues. At Camp Coldbrook, "The electrical system has claimed countless RV components and 2 total losses. Instead of fixing it, they simply run generators for years," according to a recent review.
Site preparation: Surface conditions require planning at most campgrounds. "Our site (F4) had 30 amp and water," notes a camper at Newport RV Park (formerly Melville Ponds), adding that "the main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements." Many sites have gravel pads that may need additional leveling blocks.
Reservation timing: Summer weekends book months in advance at most facilities. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, weekend slots during July and August typically fill by early March. One camper observed, "The park is a mix of seasonal and transient campers," which limits availability for short-term stays.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Campgrounds offer varying recreation options for children. At Aces High RV Park, visitors mention "a clean playground and well-maintained pool as well as some walking paths, large grassy areas, pavilion and volleyball court." Most playgrounds are designed for ages 5-12 with limited options for toddlers.
Swimming safety: Pool regulations differ between parks. At Thousand Trails Sturbridge, one reviewer highlights the "cool pond for paddle boats and canoeing! Family friendly" environment. However, many campground ponds lack lifeguards, requiring parental supervision.
Quiet time enforcement: Noise policies vary by location. "The whole campground is gorgeous. You'll notice how clean and quiet it is right when you first arrive," observed a Newport RV Park visitor. Typical quiet hours run from 10pm to 8am, though enforcement levels differ significantly between properties.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Several campgrounds have entrance issues for larger rigs. At Newport RV Park, "our site was not angled and that made it tougher to get in to it." Another camper suggested, "Walk your path first" when navigating through park roads.
Site surface variations: Prepare for diverse parking conditions across RV campgrounds near Pascoag. "Site surfaces vary between parks, with some offering level, gravel pads while others have more challenging terrain," notes a visitor to Aces High RV Park, adding "Roads are gravel and easy enough any size RV to navigate."
Hookup reliability: Water and sewer connections show inconsistent quality. "Utility hookups were in great condition and everything worked as it should," reported one camper at Aces High RV Park, though this experience varies substantially between facilities, with some parks experiencing significant water pressure fluctuations during peak usage times.
