RV campgrounds near Riverside, Rhode Island offer a mix of wooded and open sites across various landscapes. Most facilities operate seasonally from spring through fall, with the region experiencing moderate temperatures between 50-80°F during camping season. The area combines coastal access with inland forest settings, allowing campers to experience both environments within short driving distances.
What to do
Beach exploration: 10-20 minute drive from Newport RV Park to coastal areas. "We chose this park due to its location close to downtown Newport (a mere five miles). There is a lot to do in this area and we wanted to spend time sightseeing," notes one visitor. Adjacent hiking trails provide additional recreation options.
Fishing opportunities: Several ponds accessible within minutes of campsites. A camper at Newport RV Park mentions, "There is a nice pond to go fishing at as well. About a 20 min drive to local beaches." Most fishing locations are freshwater with some saltwater options requiring additional permits.
Historic site visits: Newport mansions and seaport attractions within 10 miles of most campgrounds. "Downtown historic Newport is a 10-minute drive away and you are only 35 minutes from Providence. You can tour 70-room mansions, visit the beach, brush up on tennis history at the International Tennis Hall of Fame and Museum," reports one Newport visitor.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer roomier options despite regional density. At Sun Outdoors Mystic, visitors appreciate the layout: "Our site was a nice long, level pull-thru. Hook-ups were placed in ideal locations for the pad which was gravel. The cable tv worked well and many sites would accommodate satellite users."
Clean facilities: Bathhouses maintained regularly at many locations. "The bathrooms and shower house are located in the middle of the park and were very clean," reports a camper at Newport RV Park. Another visitor at Sun Outdoors Mystic notes, "The bathrooms in the campground were newer and immaculate."
Pet-friendly amenities: Designated dog areas at several parks. A camper at Newport RV Park highlights, "We got a great pull through full hookup with a 5 minute walk to a huge dog park. There are also a bunch of beautiful trails right from the park." Most parks require leashes and proof of vaccinations.
What you should know
Site levelness varies significantly: Many campsites require additional equipment. A visitor at Melville Ponds Campground notes, "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back). Also, our site #215 was at the bottom of the hill, so it was a bit mucky."
Seasonal population changes: Parks transform between peak and off-season periods. "The park appears to have a fair number of seasonals tucked back in other areas of the park and their sites were nice and tidy," observes a camper at Sun Outdoors Mystic, indicating the mixed use nature of these facilities.
Limited amenities at some locations: Several parks have minimal facilities. A reviewer at Meadowlark RV Park states, "This is a very crowded mobile home park that has a few motorhome/RV sites. No amenities such as shower or toilets." Always verify specific amenities before booking.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for parks with updated play equipment. A visitor at Thousand Trails Sturbridge comments, "The playground was a hit for our kids!" Many family-oriented campgrounds maintain dedicated children's areas with varying equipment quality.
Recreational options: Check seasonal availability of pools and activities. "My kids enjoyed playing tennis & swimming in the pool at the campground - there is also mini-golf, but we didn't get the chance to play," shares a visitor at Ashaway RV Resort.
Site selection considerations: Choose sites away from main roads for safety. One camper notes, "It is a good place to use as a 'home-base' to explore & enjoy the area. We would definitely stop in again if we are visiting the area." Reservations recommended 4-6 weeks in advance, especially for weekend stays during summer.
Tips from RVers
Electrical service specifics: Check amperage compatibility before booking. At Carr Point Recreation Facility, "There are 6 spots with water and electric, there's a campground not too far with a dump station for $20. The view is nice and there's a recreation area next to the campground."
Dump station logistics: Plan for additional fees and travel. "Dump station located at Newport RV Park 5 minutes up the road for $20 charge," reports a visitor at Carr Point. "No sewer hookups or showers. The closest sewer dump is not far, but they charge you $10," notes another.
Site surface conditions: Many parks use gravel or mixed surfaces. "The sites are VERY close, but the people are nice and we had a great stay," mentions an Ashaway RV Resort visitor. Surface quality affects leveling, awning placement, and outdoor furniture stability.