Tent camping options near Westerly, Rhode Island concentrate primarily in areas north and west of the coastal town. Most accessible sites sit within a 25-40 mile radius, requiring 30-60 minute drives from Westerly proper. Summer temperatures in this coastal New England region typically range from 65-85°F with occasional humidity, while spring and fall camping experiences cooler 45-65°F temperatures with less crowding.
What to do
Paddling adventures: Hidden Lake Farm offers tent campers direct water access for kayaking and canoeing in a secluded setting. The property features 5 designated tent sites with nearby toilets and shower facilities.
River exploration: Selden Neck State Park Campground requires paddling approximately 20 minutes across the Connecticut River from the Deep River Landing boat launch. One camper noted, "Once you get to the island, follow the bank north until you spot the sign for your campsite." This boat-in access creates a truly remote camping experience.
Historical sightseeing: Gillette Castle State Park Campground connects campers to both water recreation and historic attractions. "Castle has tours at certain times," reports one visitor, making this location ideal for combining camping with cultural exploration. The campground offers tent sites accessible by both land and water routes.
What campers like
Riverside privacy: At Gillette Castle State Park Campground, campers appreciate the Connecticut River views and relative isolation. As one visitor shared, "There's a few sites close to each other, so it is nice to go with enough people to occupy them all at once to keep it personal."
Scenic waterfront: Chapman Pond Preserve features elevated tent platforms that provide stable camping surfaces and Connecticut River views. According to a camper, this is a "Middle of no where site" that offers quality infrastructure despite its remote feel.
Island solitude: Tent campers seeking true seclusion gravitate to Selden Neck State Park. A recent visitor with a child described their experience: "The sunset view was amazing. There was a little noise at night from boat traffic but it didn't keep us up. In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Camping at water-accessible sites like Selden Neck requires weather awareness. One visitor reported, "In the morning, we were completely socked in with fog which would have been an issue if we had to get back early." Checking weather forecasts becomes essential when water travel separates campers from their vehicles.
Campfire regulations: Fire policies vary significantly between campgrounds near Westerly. While Frontier Family Camper Park prohibits open fires entirely, Water's Edge Campground in Coventry permits fires in designated fire rings. Always confirm current fire regulations before arrival, particularly during dry summer months.
Water access challenges: Many tent camping areas require either bringing your own water supply or utilizing natural sources. Most Arcadia Management Area campsites lack running water facilities, necessitating proper water planning for multi-day stays.
Tips for camping with families
Age-appropriate sites: Selden Neck State Park Campground can accommodate families with prepared children. One parent shared, "My 5-year-old and I camped at site 2, Hogback...Plenty of flat area to pitch a tent, nice picnic table and fire pit." However, the required boat crossing makes this better suited for families with water experience.
Swim safety: Gillette Castle State Park Campground offers swimming opportunities directly from campsites. A camper reported, "You can swim and fish and relax all day!" Always supervise children near water, as Connecticut River currents can vary by season and location.
Bathroom availability: When camping with younger children, consider campgrounds with proper facilities. Hidden Lake Farm provides toilet access and shower facilities while maintaining a rustic environment, making it suitable for families transitioning to more primitive camping.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Westerly cannot accommodate larger RVs or trailers. The narrow access roads to Arcadia Management Area camping areas present challenges for vehicles over 25 feet, making smaller campervans or truck campers more suitable.
Limited hookups: For RVers seeking minimal amenities, LeGrand Reynolds Horsemen's Camping Area offers electric hookups, water connections, and allows pets. However, the lack of dump stations requires planning for waste management during extended stays.
