Best Campgrounds in Rhode Island
Rhode Island campgrounds provide varied accommodations throughout the state's compact landscape. Burlingame State Park Campground in Charlestown and George Washington State Campground in Chepachet offer multiple accommodation types, including tent camping, RV sites, and cabin rentals. Several facilities like Newport RV Park (formerly Melville Ponds) and Whispering Pines Campground also feature glamping options, expanding the range of camping experiences beyond traditional tent and RV setups. The mixed-use campgrounds typically operate seasonally, with most facilities open from April through October, though some locations like Holiday Acres Campground remain open year-round.
The majority of Rhode Island's developed campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak summer months when coastal locations see highest demand. Many campground sites are situated on slight slopes requiring leveling equipment for RVs. "Clean sites and easy hiking trails. The campground is close to relatively easy hiking trails and Portsmouth Dog Park. Many sites are on a slight slop so leveling blocks are needed," noted one camper at Newport RV Park. Electric hookups are standard at most locations, though amperage varies by campground. Water hookups are common, but not universal, with facilities like Charlestown Breachway State Park Campground offering limited amenities. Cell service can be variable throughout the state, with some reviewers noting weak signals at certain campgrounds, especially in more wooded areas.
Camping areas near Newport receive consistently positive reviews for their convenient access to coastal attractions, though prices tend to be higher than inland options. According to feedback on The Dyrt, Newport RV Park provides "an excellent location for exploring the cities and beaches of Rhode Island" while remaining relatively quiet. Several visitors mention the abundance of family-friendly amenities at Whispering Pines Campground, including splash pads, swimming pools, and recreation halls that are operational during peak season. Campers frequently note the balance of woodland settings and proximity to beaches as a defining characteristic of Rhode Island camping. Fort Getty Campground in Jamestown offers water views but fewer amenities than other developed campgrounds in the state. Throughout Rhode Island, the camping experience is characterized by relatively short driving distances between natural areas and urban centers, allowing campers to easily explore both forests and coastal communities during their stay.
