Tent camping opportunities in the Slocum, Rhode Island vicinity include several primitive and established campgrounds throughout the heavily forested rural landscape. Most sites sit within 25 miles of Slocum in the southern Rhode Island region, characterized by mixed hardwood forests, small ponds, and proximity to the Connecticut River. Summer temperatures typically range from 65-85°F, with high humidity common during July and August camping periods.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Water's Edge Campground in Coventry offers access to fishing areas with both shoreline and boat access points. Located about 18 miles north of Slocum, this campground provides basic facilities for anglers seeking local freshwater species.
Water recreation: Chapman Pond Preserve features "Good tent platforms, picnic tables and outhouse. CT river within view," according to camper Ben L., who rated it five stars. This Connecticut River location allows for kayaking and paddling with minimal shoreline development.
Hiking trails: Arcadia Backpack Camping Area contains interconnected trail networks throughout its wooded setting. Located in Exeter, approximately 10 miles from Slocum, these trails range from beginner to intermediate difficulty and connect to the larger Arcadia Management Area trail system.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Selden Neck State Park Campground receives praise for its water access. "Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit. There's a private outhouse. At low tide, a couple of beaches emerge to play on," writes Jason S., who also notes the "sunset view was amazing."
Minimalist settings: Buck Hill Campground offers group camping in a rustic environment. According to Greg R., "The area is heavily wooded without much else around and very few amenities... There's a small somewhat sandy area that perhaps used to be a beach of sorts, though no lifeguards or anything."
Water views: Gillette Castle State Park Campground provides boat-in tent sites with Connecticut River scenery. Camper Jackie G. reports, "We have camped on the south end of Hurd Park several times via boat access. It is amazing with the views of the CT River and being able to watch the sunrise and sunset."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Slocum lack drinking water supplies, requiring campers to bring sufficient water for their stay. This includes LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area, which requires self-sufficiency for basic needs.
Reservation requirements: Frosty Hollow Camping Area requires advance reservations during peak summer months. Sites can fill quickly, particularly on summer weekends and holidays when regional camping demand peaks.
Boat-in access: Several campgrounds near Slocum require water transportation. Chapman Pond Preserve campsites require either hiking or paddling to access tent platforms. Ben L. describes it as a "Middle of nowhere site" with basic amenities but considerable privacy.
Tips for camping with families
Beach areas: Ginny B Camp Grounds includes shoreline access with gradual entry points suitable for children. The campground permits swimming in designated areas and provides restroom facilities and drinking water access for families.
Group sites: Water's Edge Campground offers multiple access options including "boat-in, drive-in, hike-in, walk-in" possibilities, making it adaptable for families with different mobility needs or equipment preferences.
Day activities: Frontier Family Camper Park operates seasonally from May 1 to September 30, aligning with school vacation schedules. Located in Hopkinton, this established campground caters specifically to family groups with appropriate spacing between sites.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookups: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Slocum provide minimal or no RV hookups. When available, electrical connections tend to be 30-amp rather than 50-amp service, requiring appropriate adapters for larger units.
Access roads: Chapman Pond Preserve has narrow access routes unsuitable for trailers or motorhomes. Ben L. notes it's a "Middle of nowhere site" with "Good tent platforms" but terrain that restricts vehicle types and sizes.
Seasonal considerations: Local campgrounds often close or reduce services between October and April due to winter weather conditions and reduced maintenance staff. Verify operating schedules when planning early spring or late fall camping trips.
