Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the union but it has plenty of great camping for the outdoor enthusiast. Being the smallest state means that no matter where you camp, you will never be very far from the ocean. These camp grounds both have freshwater beaches and are just a short drive away from the salt water attractions and beaches.
There are five state operated campgrounds in Rhode Island. At 3100 acres, the largest of these is Burlingame State Park. Located in Charlestown RI, it has been a state park for over 80 years. Rhode Island state campgrounds are pet friendly. You can bring your dog and/or cat, no more than 2 pets per site. Pets must be leashed at all times and are not allowed in the beach area.
Be forewarned, this is a very popular campground. You need to book your campsite a year in advance to guarantee you will have a site. There are 755 camps sites at Burlingame as well as some eleven cabins and a yurt that can be rented. Stays are limited to fourteen consecutive days and once you have stayed you can’t return for seven days. From mid May to Labor Day, there is a four night minimum rental. At other times, you can make a one-night reservation if space is available. Site selection cannot be guaranteed, it is on a first come first serve basis. Electric and sewer hookups are available.
It is recommend by the State of Rhode Island that you not transport any firewood into the state. This can bring non-native insects into the state. It is strongly suggested that you buy your firewood locally, in Rhode Island.
What can you expect to find at Burlingame? Plenty of clean showers and restroom facilities, a freshwater beach on Watchaug Pond, a boat launch area, canoe rentals, arcade and playground for the kids and plenty of hiking trails. There is a wildlife sanctuary on the opposite shore of Watchaug Pond and they offer educational programs all year long. Bring your fishing poles and license, your bikes and your hiking shoes the great outdoors beckons.
http://www.riparks.com/burlgmc amp.htm
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There are several privately owned campgrounds as well in Rhode Island. Among the best is
Whispering Pines in Hope Valley which offers 50 wooded acres that can accommodate RV as well as tent campers. The sites are large and they have pull through sites for larger campers. If you like, a campground with planned activities then you will love Whispering Pines. They have a large pool, mini golf, playground, horseshoes and even swimming lessons.
You can play team sports like softball or basketball or just chill out in front of the projection TV in the Pavilion. They have a spring fed pond and you have use of the paddleboats and canoes.
There are many seasonal campers here and the sites have electric and water hookups. They now are offering cabin rentals as well. There is a Laundromat on site as well as a dumping station, propane fill-up and a store. If you cannot imagine leaving your laptop at home, you will happy to know you will have free WIFI here. http://www.whisperingpinescamp ing.com/
These are just two of the many camping opportunities that Rhode Island has to offer.