Burlingame State Park offers over 700 campsites spread across several wooded sections near Watchaug Pond. Located about 10 miles from South Kingstown, the campground provides a mix of primitive tent sites, RV-compatible spaces and basic cabins. Campsites typically cost $14-36 per night depending on residency status and accommodation type.
What to do
Kayaking and canoeing at Watchaug Pond: Visitors at Burlingame State Park Campground can enjoy paddling at the on-site pond. "Great for fishing, catch and release. Bike. Hike. Hammock," notes a reviewer about water-based activities.
Visit Mystic Seaport and Aquarium: Mystic KOA serves as a convenient base for regional attractions. "The neighboring town of Stonington is beautiful with historic stone buildings and an old stone lighthouse. Mystic Seaport and the Aquarium are must-sees," recommends a visitor.
Enjoy swimming beaches: Rocky Neck State Park offers a beach area with designated swimming zones. According to one camper, "Beautiful campground right near the beach. Hiking trails along the coast line."
Mountain biking trails: Several parks in the region feature trail networks for cycling enthusiasts. A George Washington State Park visitor mentions, "My family and I come here twice a season it's quiet it's calm and never crowded. There's fishing and hiking right in the park."
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the lower rates at state parks. "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," notes a visitor to Burlingame State Park.
Well-stocked camp stores: Many campgrounds in the area maintain supplies for forgotten items. One camper at George Washington State Campground appreciates "new pay shower and bathrooms. We enjoyed swimming and fishing."
Diverse site options: Local campgrounds feature various site types. "Hundreds of sites, some level some not, some dirt sites, some grassy, some with a ton of shade, some out in the open," describes a Burlingame visitor, highlighting the variety available to suit different preferences.
Entertainment amenities: Multiple facilities provide organized activities. A reviewer at Hidden Acres Campground mentions, "We tubed down river, fished the pond, swam in the pool, did the hay ride, even attended the dance at night. Definitely be sure to grab a snack at the food hit they have."
What you should know
Shower facilities vary widely: Expect diverse bathroom conditions across different campgrounds. "Bath houses are usually pretty filthy, and that's because there are too many people per bath house, and people are gross," comments one Burlingame State Park reviewer about peak season conditions.
Campground size affects experience: Larger campgrounds can feel crowded during peak times. A visitor to Rocky Neck State Park Campground advises, "Beach can be crowded. But it is worth it. Nice food shack. Great family place."
Site privacy considerations: Some campgrounds offer more seclusion than others. One camper at Odetah notes, "The only con is the sites are not very private...at all."
Noise levels fluctuate: Traffic and fellow campers can impact tranquility. A George Washington State Campground visitor cautions, "It is a difficult hike in and I only recommend for backpackers. It is very noisy, the road has heavy traffic."
Tips for camping with families
Choose family-focused campgrounds: Select parks with kid-friendly amenities. A visitor to Odetah Camping Resort shares, "From a massage at the Spa to a fun band by the lake, to Bingo night, mini-golf and awesome ice cream Sundaes... tennis & basketball games, immaculate bathrooms....every night we went to bed tired and looking forward to doing it all again the next day!"
Consider seasonal events: Many campgrounds host themed weekends with activities. "We went two years in a row each on Halloween! They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating," reports an Odetah visitor.
Look for recreation options: Facilities with multiple activities keep children engaged. A Sunfox visitor notes, "Campground is situated in a beautiful valley with a little pond, hiking trails, playground, jumping pillow, swimming pool and hot tub."
Pack sand management supplies: Coastal campgrounds mean sandy conditions. A camper at Burlingame warns, "Bathrooms are usually always busy, and are pretty dirty from people coming back from the beach. SAND EVERYWHERE!"
Tips from RVers
Reserve early for premium spots: Limited full-hookup sites require advance booking. At Strawberry Park, campers appreciate that the "Site was wide and allowed me to easily back in. Near perfect level. New fence poles show renovations were consistently done. Two easy dump stations with nice clean area."
Check site dimensions carefully: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. "Some sites towards the front of the park are very close together and unlevel," notes a Mystic KOA visitor about certain areas.
Consider utility needs: Hot summer camping may require air conditioning. A Burlingame reviewer points out, "No hook-ups, lol. This is a con in the heat of the summer if you want/need AC."
Seasonal considerations: Most regional campgrounds operate on limited schedules. A visitor to Burlingame advises, "Avoid holiday weekends and the heat of August if you can. Be prepared for dirty restrooms and come armed with hand soap, paper towels, and Clorox wipes."
