Cabin camping near Riverside, Rhode Island offers rustic to modern overnight options within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences moderate temperatures ranging from 50-85°F during camping season with occasional rain even in summer. Sites along ponds and forest areas provide relief from urban environments with well-marked trails connecting many campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing and water activities: George Washington State Campground features a pond where visitors can fish and relax. "There's fishing and hiking right in the park," notes Nick S., who visits twice a season for its quiet atmosphere. The pond is also suitable for kayaking and canoeing, though pets aren't allowed on the beach.
Hiking trails: Access miles of maintained trails at George Washington State Campground where campers can explore the woods. "Great hiking trails going around some lakes," reports Joey S. The trails are relatively flat, making them accessible for most skill levels.
Access to beaches: While camping inland, coastal access is available within driving distance. Burlingame State Park includes a small beach area for swimming, though some reviewers note water quality concerns. "There is swimming at the lake but it looked way too dirty," one camper observes, suggesting visitors might prefer driving to ocean beaches nearby.
What campers like
Privacy of sites: The wooded settings at many campgrounds provide natural separation between sites. At Holiday Acres Campground, "Most of the campsites seem to have an open area in the middle between them that allows for maneuvering and socializing," according to Michael K. This setup creates a balance between privacy and community.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain their facilities well. At Mystic KOA, campers appreciate the attention to cleanliness. "Cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen at a campground," reports Kay B. This is particularly important for cabin campers who depend on shared facilities.
Wildlife viewing: The natural settings provide opportunities to hear and observe wildlife. At Burlingame State Park Campground, campers enjoy "listening to the several types of owls" as a "favorite pastime at night," according to Jessica A. Early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Booking windows: Reservations at popular sites fill quickly, particularly for cabins. At Normandy Farms Campground, the check-in process is "more like checking into a hotel than campground complete with a concierge and express check-in," according to Nancy W. This reflects the high demand and organization of larger facilities.
Shower costs: Some state parks charge for shower use. At George Washington State Campground, showers cost "$1.50 for 6mins" and require quarters, as Nick P. points out. Cabin campers should bring sufficient quarters for their stay.
Noise levels: Campground atmosphere varies significantly. Burlingame State Park Campground can get crowded, and "it's not uncommon to have to listen to noise late into the night," Jessica A. warns. Weekdays and non-holiday periods generally offer a quieter experience.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Boston/Cape Cod KOA caters to families with numerous activities. "My kids loved the train rides, movie night, flash light candy hunt, and arts and crafts," shares Amy G. These organized activities can keep children entertained regardless of weather.
Pool facilities: Swimming options vary widely between campgrounds. At Canoe River Campground, "the pool bathrooms were gross, but the other facilities area near the tent sites was very nice and clean," according to Aliyyah A. Some campgrounds maintain separate adult and family swimming areas.
Site selection: Choose sites based on proximity to bathrooms and play areas. At Whispering Pines Campground, "The pool, splash pad, live music and activities for the kids were great!" reports Eddy B. Sites further from these amenities often provide more quiet but longer walks for children.
Tips for RVers
Site leveling: Many campgrounds have varied terrain requiring leveling equipment. At Stateline Campresort & Cabins, "Clean, wooded and open sites some overlook a large pond," notes Tony O. The wooded sites may require more leveling than open areas.
Electric reliability: Some older campgrounds have aging electrical infrastructure. At Holiday Acres Camp Grounds, one camper reported that "Their corroded 30 amp power melted the connections on both my cords and blew out my power awning." Using surge protectors is strongly recommended at all sites.
Dump station access: Most campgrounds with cabins also accommodate RVs with varying levels of services. Canoe River Campground provides dump stations, though after busy weekends, pond areas can sometimes develop odors that "seem to be full of dump station overflow because the smell can be a little much at times," according to Gemma G.
