Campgrounds near Slocum, Rhode Island offer varied camping experiences from late April through October. The camping season typically sees summer temperatures reaching 85°F with cooler nights in spring and fall. Most campgrounds in this area sit among oak and pine forests with some offering direct water access to ponds or ocean views within a 25-minute drive from Slocum.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Wawaloam Campground, campers can fish at the on-site pond, which makes it convenient for families. "Playground, fishing and water slides invite families," notes reviewer Kathy L.
Historic exploration: Fort Getty contains old military bunkers with limited access. "There are the remains of two bunkers but other than walking by them, you cannot go inside. One (in Area One) is a grassy knoll with stairs to a lookout," explains Lee D. from Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground.
Block Island ferry access: Campers at Charlestown Breachway State Park Campground enjoy proximity to the Block Island ferry. "It is close to the ferry to Block Island, and there are numerous recreation options available," writes one visitor. The ferry runs hourly during peak summer months with a 30-minute crossing time.
Hiking trails: Several hiking trails wind through the wooded areas surrounding Melville Ponds Campground. "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," says Ilana F.
What campers like
Large swimming areas: Burlingame State Park Campground features a pond for swimming alongside camping facilities. "Lovely location - it's in the middle of the woods, has a pond, has pond swimming. It's just minutes to the ocean by car. Hiking and biking for miles," describes Jessica A.
Waterslides and splash pads: Whispering Pines Campground offers water recreation options on-site. "The kids got to enjoy a brand new splash pad which was great and a small train ride around the park," shares Johnny W. The splash pad operates during summer months and is included with your stay.
Camp store selection: Many campgrounds maintain well-stocked stores with camping supplies. "Camp store - well stocked," says Jessica A. about Burlingame State Park, while another reviewer at Fort Getty notes the availability of basic supplies and ice.
Private beach access: Some campgrounds provide direct beach access. "The private pet friendly beaches were great! Small but perfect to relax," writes Steve T. about Fort Getty Campground, describing the small beaches available to campers.
What you should know
Campsite types vary widely: Sites range from rustic tent-only areas to full-hookup RV sites. "Area One has the best views and full hookups but there is no bathhouse; Area Two also has full hookups, no view and some of the sites (55-65) are decidedly not level," explains Lee D. about Fishermens Memorial State Park Campground.
Environmental noise factors: Highway noise can affect some campgrounds. "Road noise continued throughout the night and there is a wind turbine on the property. I've never been this close to one and yes, there is noise, although the road noise bothered me more," notes a reviewer at Fishermens Memorial.
Pet restrictions: While many campgrounds allow pets, some restrict dogs from certain areas. "No animals permitted," states a rule at Charlestown Breachway. Check with individual campgrounds about specific pet policies, especially regarding beaches and common areas.
Generator policies: Campgrounds without hookups often have generator restrictions. "The campground only allows generators to be run from 0800-2000," reports Justin F. about Charlestown Breachway, which affects comfort during hot weather for RVers without hookups.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access timing: Mystic KOA offers swimming options with specific schedules. "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," shares Cynthia K. The pool typically closes by 8 pm daily.
Space between sites: Family groups should consider site spacing when booking. "Even with all those sites, there's plenty of room between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek," notes Jessica A. about Burlingame State Park.
Weekend noise levels: Many campgrounds experience increased noise on weekends. "On the weekends people can get out of hand with the partying and it's not uncommon to have to listen to noise late into the night. Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed," warns Jessica A.
Children's activities: Recreation options vary by season. "Very affordable (around $14 per night). We stayed near the camp store and playground. Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking," reports Cendy G. about Burlingame State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many campsites require leveling equipment. "The main campground is on a slope, so be prepared for some leveling requirements, especially sites #216 and #217 (front to back)," advises Brad B. about Melville Ponds Campground.
Off-season considerations: Facilities may be limited in spring and fall. "I believe we camped there too early in the season to fully enjoy the grounds. The pool, splash pad, and nearly everything else was non operational or locked up still," reports Sean R. about Whispering Pines Campground.
Self-contained requirements: Some parks require fully self-contained RVs. "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," explains Jean C. about Charlestown Breachway State Park.
Water pressure variations: Water hookups can vary in reliability. "Water pressure is ok and power is a bit iffy when the park is full," warns David V. about Wawaloam Campground, suggesting RVers bring pressure regulators and be prepared for fluctuations during peak occupancy.
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