Tent camping near Warwick, Rhode Island offers options within a 40-mile radius, with sites located primarily in the western portion of the state. The camping season typically runs from May through September, with some locations extending into October during favorable weather conditions. Most campgrounds in the region require advance reservations during summer weekends when demand peaks.
What to do
Water activities: At Washburn Island Campsites, accessible only by boat, campers can enjoy paddling, swimming, and fishing directly from their waterfront sites. "Small island with 10 camp site (one group) all with views of the water very quiet at night," notes one visitor, highlighting the serene setting.
Fort exploration: The historic military installations at Boston Harbor Islands State Park Campground provide interesting day activities between ferry rides. "The island is beautiful and has an old fort to explore as well as a lot of Rocky shoreline and trails," says a camper who stayed in one of the yurts on Peddocks Island.
Blackberry picking: Mid-August visitors to the harbor islands can forage for wild blackberries while hiking the island trails. A camper mentioned, "In mid-August we collected handfuls of blackberries as we explored Peddocks."
Sunset viewing: Camp at strategically situated sites for dramatic evening views. One Boston Harbor Islands visitor shared the experience: "Sitting on the beach watching the sun set over Boston was awesome and made everything entirely worth it."
What campers like
Seclusion despite proximity: The Frosty Hollow Camping Area in Exeter provides a quiet retreat despite being relatively close to urban areas. Located within 25 miles of Warwick, it offers a more secluded tent camping option.
Rustic group camping: Buck Hill Campground features large, clustered camping areas ideal for groups seeking a back-to-basics experience. "This is a great rural no frills campground... All the sites are in large clusters (each can accommodate 10+ tents)," explains a visitor who appreciated the simplicity.
Pond swimming: Natural water features provide cooling options during summer months. At Buck Hill, "The water is clean and fine for swimming with a few areas that make for easy entry into the water (including the 'beach')," according to a reviewer who enjoyed the pond access.
Seasonal tranquility: Shoulder season camping (May, September, October) often means fewer crowds and more peaceful conditions. One Washburn Island camper noted, "Camped there May 20-25 2018 and there were only 1-2 other sites being used."
What you should know
Ferry planning crucial: For LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area and other Arcadia Management Area campgrounds, verify operational schedules before visiting as hours may change seasonally. Similarly, Boston Harbor Islands access requires careful planning as "figuring out the schedule is the trickiest part, not least because they don't make the inter-island ferry schedule as readily accessible."
Site reservation realities: Despite making advance reservations, availability issues can occur. One camper at Boston Harbor Islands reported: "When we got to the island we found that all of the sites had already been taken even though we had booked online months ahead."
Water availability varies: Many tent sites near Warwick require bringing your own drinking water. A Harbor Islands camper advised: "Make sure that you bring enough drinking water and that you are ok with using the composting bathroom or going in the woods."
Limited amenities: Most tent campgrounds offer only basic facilities. At Buck Hill, expect "a few rough restrooms and some porta-potties" rather than full shower buildings or flush toilets.
Tips for camping with families
Pack a folding wagon: For island camping or sites with longer walks, bring equipment to transport gear. "If you have a folding wagon, you may appreciate having it to carry items on and off the ferry and to your site on the island," suggests a Boston Harbor Islands visitor.
Consider yurt options: For families wanting more shelter, Water's Edge Campground and Peddocks Island offer alternative accommodations. "The yurts have bunk beds, a floor lamp, a table inside, a picnic table outside and a grill," explains a camper who found them ideal for family trips.
Plan day-trip island hopping: When staying at harbor islands, utilize the inter-island ferry service included with your ticket. "During the day you can take small ferries to a variety of other islands to go swimming or explore. This is a great adventure for kids."
Check library passes: Massachusetts residents can find ferry discounts through local libraries. "Some town libraries have passes offering 2-for-1 ferry rides, so if you're a MA resident in the greater Boston area, it's worth checking that out first."
Tips from RVers
Tent sites with amenities: For tent campers wanting RV-style hookups, Arcadia Backpack Camping Area offers sites with electric and water connections—unusual for tent-focused campgrounds in the region.
No generators at primitive sites: Tent campers seeking quiet should note most primitive sites near Warwick prohibit generator use, including Buck Hill Campground where visitors appreciate that the area is "heavily wooded without much else around" for a more natural experience.
Beach improvisation: When facilities are minimal, creative approaches help. One harbor island camper shared, "We ended up making a fire pit on the beach and a flat rock 'grill' to make our burgers" when their site lacked standard cooking equipment.
