Wakefield, Rhode Island camping options extend beyond standard RV parks into nearby areas with historical sites and coastal settings. Campers can access both densely wooded inland campgrounds and waterfront locations within a 30-minute drive. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F with higher humidity levels near coastal campgrounds compared to inland options.
What to do
Fort exploration and swimming beaches: Fort Getty Campground offers both historical structures and water access. "Great state campground! Right on the water," notes visitor Jacob P. The location includes pet-friendly beaches that are "small but perfect to relax" according to Steve T.
Tennis and pool swimming: Ashaway RV Resort provides recreational activities for campers not venturing to beaches. "My kids enjoyed playing tennis & swimming in the pool at the campground - there is also mini-golf, but we didn't get the chance to play," reports one Happy Camper.
Kayak launching: Water access points exist within minutes of several campgrounds. At Melville Ponds Campground, one visitor described "launching our kayaks north of the drawbridge in town at the public launch and paddled down to Mystic Seaport which was fun to see the historic boats from the water."
Off-leash dog areas: Several parks feature dedicated pet areas. "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," mentions Ilana F. about Newport RV Park.
What campers like
Wooded hiking trails: Many campgrounds connect to nature paths. "The nearby hiking trail was perfect for our dog and while it was just a few miles long, it was great because it was within walking distance and she could swim in the pond," noted a visitor about Newport RV Park.
Clean facilities with extras: Sun Outdoors Mystic offers upgraded amenities beyond basic hookups. "The bathrooms and showers are spotless and newly painted. The grounds are clean and well maintained," reports Pam R., who stayed in a small RV.
Proximity to coastal towns: Locations within short drives to popular attractions receive high marks. "We chose this park due to its location close to downtown Newport (a mere five miles). There is a lot to do in this area and we wanted to spend time sightseeing," noted a reviewer about Newport RV Park.
Seasonal outdoor recreation: Weather-dependent activities vary throughout the camping season. "The main office is like a fancy clubhouse and check-in was super smooth and quick. The office has a billiards table, theater chairs with a large screen tv, a small book exchange, racks with information about the area, and a camp store."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer weekends fill quickly at most campgrounds. "Advance reservations are strongly recommended during summer months, particularly at waterfront locations where availability becomes limited."
Camp store limitations: Not all campgrounds stock essential supplies. At Aces High RV Park, one visitor noted a shortcoming: "This is silly, but I wanted something to improve. The store didn't stock a selection of stickers so we weren't able to add to our collection."
Noise levels vary: Some campgrounds struggle with noise enforcement. At Fort Getty Campground, a visitor reported: "Loud campers in large groups. Rules regarding quiet hours, no generators, number of tents per site and late arrival and setups were not enforced. People partied until 2:00am and woke up at 5:30am."
Dump station fees: Non-guests pay for dump services at some locations. "Dump station located at Newport RV Park 5 minutes up the road for $20 charge," notes James and Susan K. about Carr Point Recreation Facility.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Thousand Trails Gateway to Cape Cod offers diverse recreation. "We fished, hiked, swam, crabbed and had awesome camp fires. We could of lived off of the land if so inclined," shares John H.
Kid-friendly crafts: Some campgrounds provide organized activities. "Had good kids crafts. Loved the easy access to Cape Cod, Plymouth, and Boston," notes Michael J. about Gateway to Cape Cod.
Site selection for privacy: Choose locations away from common areas. At Fort Getty, one camper advised: "Tent site #6 was great. Views of the ocean to wake up too and tucked away from main area."
Tent camping considerations: Vehicle restrictions impact family camping at some locations. "Worst part is you can't bring your car on the site. Do not understand this, especially since it was over 95° and we have dogs that need AC," notes Steve T. about Fort Getty Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RV sites near Wakefield, Rhode Island vary in size and accessibility. At Countryside RV Park, visitors appreciate the "beautiful, family owned & run, quiet, large sites. Close to I-395."
Power options: Electric service varies between campgrounds. "Standard crabgrass parking lot with drunks driving around on golf carts and RV's stacked on top of each other," warns Rose P. about Ashaway RV Resort, highlighting that site aesthetics differ significantly.
Leveling requirements: Some campgrounds require equipment for proper RV positioning. "The premium sites have no shade and are a little close to the neighbors. However, they have great paver stone patios and fire pits. They also had a slight downhill slope so it required some extra blocks to level out," notes Nick P.
Tree maintenance: Environmental conditions impact RV parking. "Biggest negative was the trees can drop a lot of sap so be ready to wash your rig and vehicles as soon as you leave if it was a heavy sap time," advises Michael J. about Gateway to Cape Cod.
