Campgrounds near Shannock, Rhode Island operate primarily in a temperate climate zone with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and winter lows around 20-30°F. The inland location sits approximately 150 feet above sea level in Washington County, with camping options concentrated within a 20-mile radius. Most campsites in this region feature mixed hardwood forests with oak, maple and pine creating varied terrain across the camping areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The pond at Wawaloam Campground provides convenient access for anglers. "Well stocked store. Playground, fishing and water slides invite families," notes one visitor. Many campers appreciate the easy access to freshwater fishing without leaving the campground.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail systems connect through the area, with some crossing state lines. At Whispering Pines Campground, one visitor noted: "We drove about 10 min to some awesome trails which literally crossed the Connecticut and Rhode Island border." These trails provide moderate difficulty levels suitable for day hiking.
Windsurfing access: Sites 58-75 at Charlestown Breachway offer direct water access for windsurfing enthusiasts. A reviewer mentioned, "If you have a self-contained RV, like the beach, fishing, boating, and/or windsurfing, this may just be the park for you." Water conditions are typically most favorable for windsurfing during morning hours when winds are steadier.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the generous site dimensions at certain campgrounds. At Wawaloam Campground, a visitor commented, "Large sites, great stone fire rings, full hookups... this place brings a lot to the table for a very fair price of 60 bucks." Another noted, "The trailer on the door side is probably 50-60 feet away."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies significantly between campgrounds, with some maintaining higher standards. At Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground, a camper observed: "New facilities, clean and quiet campground. Best location ever to the beach." Another mentioned, "Bathrooms were spotless. Friendly park rangers."
Water-based recreation: Multiple water features beyond just beaches enhance camping experiences. One visitor to Wawaloam noted: "Besides the pool they have a splash pad, a water slide, mini golf, a nice pond for fishing." These water amenities provide alternatives when coastal beaches are crowded.
What you should know
Out-of-state visitor pricing: Several campgrounds charge significantly higher rates for non-residents. A visitor to Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground stated: "Imagine my surprise when we found out that a water/electric site for an out of state camper was $45 per night! The rates for out of state campers are significantly more than for residents."
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects several campgrounds. One reviewer at Mystic KOA observed: "You can hear the highway very well at night, particularly in the safari field." At another location, a camper noted "Road noise continued throughout the night and there is a wind turbine on the property."
Site conditions: Terrain varies significantly between and within campgrounds. A camper at Fishermens Memorial State Park noted: "Area Two has full hookups, no view and some of the sites (55-65) are decidedly not level." At Melville Ponds, someone observed: "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Many families appreciate the variety of water activities. At Mystic KOA, a visitor noted: "The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept. And then there's mini golf, hay rides, and lots of fun planned activities." Water facilities typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds feature playgrounds suited to different age groups. At Newport RV Park, one visitor mentioned: "It's well shaded, has a nice playground, bathhouse, and a laundry room." Playgrounds provide gathering spots for children to socialize during extended stays.
Organized activities: Some campgrounds maintain regular activity schedules. A visitor at Strawberry Park shared: "When my family went here it poured! And we were thankful that there were so many things to do, painting ceramics, karaoke, an arcade. Bingo is always a family favorite and they even had that as well!" Activities typically increase during summer weekends and holidays.
Tips from RVers
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds provide on-site dumping facilities. A Charlestown Breachway visitor noted: "There are no hookups or even a dump station, but your site may overlook the channel and is only a very short walk away from the beach... you can dump and refill your water at Burlingame State Park for free with registration and the breachway."
Pull-through availability: Some parks offer convenient pull-through sites for larger rigs. At Melville Ponds, one RVer commented: "We stayed in the premium pull through sites here. The whole campground is gorgeous. The premium sites have no shade and are a little close to the neighbors. However, they have great paver stone patios and fire pits."
Self-contained requirements: Certain waterfront locations have specific equipment requirements. At Charlestown Breachway, a visitor explained: "If you have a self-contained RV (no pop-up/canvas; permanent toilets/water tanks), like the beach, fishing, boating, and/or windsurfing, this may just be the park for you."
Legend
