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Before you reach the Atlantic, a series of bays bookend eastern Rhode Island. As New England’s largest estuary, Narragansett Bay offers campers access to beaches and trailheads galore. To camp all the closer to the water, take the ferry from Bristol to Prudence Island. Meanwhile, further north, campsites near Goddard Memorial State Park get campers up close and personal with Greenwich Bay.
No visit to a coastal town is complete with a stop on the coast. Camp along Rhode Island’s southern end, where log cabins and RV campsites pepper the shoreline. Make s’mores around a fire pit at Fishermen’s Memorial State Park before biking to Point Judith Lighthouse. Or, head to Burlingame State Park, where campsites come with tree coverage and views of Watchaug Pond.
Summer is the best—but busiest—season to experience the full range of Rhode Island’s outdoor activities. Maximize your camping options by planning a warm-weather getaway, when temperatures in Rhode Island hover in the 80s. Come fall, the Atlantic Ocean quickly cools down, so look beyond coastal campsites in the shoulder seasons. Both fall and spring are best suited for hiking and exploring Rhode Island’s close-knit towns, while winter camping is all about cozy A-frames and snow sports.
In Rhode Island, camping rules vary depending on the campground, but some general guidelines apply to most locations. Here are some common camping rules in Rhode Island:
It's essential to review the specific rules and regulations for the campground you plan to visit, as some may have additional guidelines or restrictions. You can find information about Rhode Island campgrounds on Hipcamp.
In Rhode Island, camping directly on the beach is generally not allowed. However, there are campgrounds and parks close to the beach where you can set up camp and enjoy beach access during the day. Some popular beach camping options in Rhode Island include:
It's important to check the specific regulations of each campground or park before planning your trip. Narragansett Pier and Watch Hill are popular beach destinations, but not campgrounds. Providence is not a beach location. Find more beach camping options in Rhode Island.
Unfortunately, there are no public campgrounds or designated tent camping areas on Block Island. Camping is not allowed on the beaches or in public parks. If you're looking for beach camping options, you might consider nearby Watch Hill in Rhode Island or Shelter Island in New York.