Camping options near Westerly, Rhode Island range from basic tent sites to luxury accommodations. The area sits along the southern New England coastline where the Pawcatuck River meets the Atlantic Ocean, creating a blend of woodland and coastal environments with moderate temperatures ideal for camping from May through October. Humidity can be high during summer months, requiring campers to prepare for occasional evening fog near water sites.
What to do
Hiking trails near Rocky Neck: Access miles of wooded paths and beachfront trails at Rocky Neck State Park Campground where camping and outdoor exploration combine. "Hiking and biking for miles," notes Jessica A., who adds that the location offers a "lovely location - it's in the middle of the woods, has a pond, has pond swimming. It's just minutes to the ocean by car."
Beach activities: Most campgrounds provide easy access to area beaches, some within walking distance. "The campgrounds are named after water fowl: Crane, Egret, Osprey, Heron etc...We stayed in Egret. We camped at site #4 (sunny) then moved to #38 (shady)," writes Nita D. about Rocky Neck, adding "Short walk to Rock Neck beach."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing in stocked ponds, lakes, and rivers. At Ross Hill RV Park & Campground, campers can enjoy riverside sites. "The campground is set on the Q River and if you're lucky enough to see it from your site it's beautiful," shares Glenn P.
Resort amenities: For those seeking extensive activities, Odetah Camping Resort offers numerous recreational options. "We had so much fun & we were never short on something to do... 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," reports a camper known as Happy Camper L.
What campers like
Large natural sites: Burlingame State Park Campground offers spacious camping areas with natural surroundings. "Spacious - even with all those sites, there's plenty of room between sites and tons of open space for kids to run around, fly a kite, play tag, hide and seek," describes Jessica A. in her detailed review.
Family-oriented activities: Many campgrounds organize regular events for children and families. "They had great amenities and activities for the kids. Plus a costume contest and tricker treating," Brian P. says about Odetah's Halloween camping experience.
Proximity to Mystic attractions: Nearby Mystic, Connecticut offers additional tourist destinations. "The location of the campground was great as it was easy to find, close to a grocery store, and more importantly close enough to our favorite town in Connecticut allowing us the opportunity to visit the ocean, go out to dinner and enjoy the local stores," writes Jenn about Mystic KOA.
Year-round glamping close to Westerly, Rhode Island: While most campgrounds operate seasonally, some upscale glamping facilities remain open year-round. Hidden Acres Campground offers a mixture of traditional camping and upgraded accommodations. "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. Very good food," says Erik M.
What you should know
Peak season crowding: Several campgrounds become extremely busy during summer and holiday weekends. "Do not come on a holiday weekend, it's packed," warns Jessica A. about Burlingame, adding that "people can get out of hand with the partying and it's not uncommon to have to listen to noise late into the night."
Bathhouse conditions vary widely: Facilities range from spotless to problematic depending on the campground and timing. "Bathrooms were clean," reports Cendy G. about Burlingame, while Madeline H. notes they are "usually always busy, and are pretty dirty from people coming back from the beach. SAND EVERYWHERE!"
Weather considerations: Coastal New England weather can change quickly. "I was stung by a wasp, so watch out for those guys," cautions Katelain T. about her Burlingame stay, while also mentioning, "We were there the weekend after Labor Day weekend in 2014, and it was pretty quiet."
Reservation planning: Luxury glamping near Westerly requires advance planning. "Very affordable (around $14 per night). We stayed near the camp store and playground," notes Cendy G. about basic sites at Burlingame, showing the price difference between standard and premium accommodations in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Seek campgrounds with swimming pools for children when beach weather isn't optimal. Sunfox Campground offers "a beautiful pool, playground and a large jumping pillow like a huge trampoline you can't fall off of," according to Tara N.
Playground variety: Different campgrounds offer varying play equipment. "Lots to do with kids including fishing, game room, and hiking. Bathrooms were clean. No electricity at the sites. Will try a cabin next time," shares Cendy G. about her Burlingame experience.
Activity schedules: Check campground calendars for organized events. "This KOA provides a lot to do for kids and families. The pool is small and usually crowded, but still very well kept. And then there's mini golf, hay rides, and lots of fun planned activities," explains Cynthia K. about Mystic KOA.
Seasonal events: Fall camping often includes Halloween 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," writes Brian P. about Odetah Camping Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on specific needs. "Some sites towards the front of the park are very close together and unlevel. If you want to be up near the action– pool, bar car, and other activities– get a site in the front section," advises Nancy W. about Mystic KOA.
Utilities and hookups: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "There are only a couple of 'primitive' sites here, and I do not recommend those sites because they are very close to the dumpsters," Cynthia K. cautions about Mystic KOA.
Dump station access: Plan for sanitation needs, especially at campgrounds without sewer hookups. "There are two dumping spots each with two dumps," notes Andrew P. about Burlingame State Park Campground, providing practical information for RVers.
Road conditions: Interior roads can be challenging at some campgrounds. "Gates at check in can take some time, as well as finding your site," mentions Madeline H. regarding Burlingame's layout.
