More than 60 percent of the state is covered with beautiful woodlands, providing excellent locations for camping in Rhode Island, in addition to the Rhode Island beach camping on the state's islands and along its more than 400 miles of coastline. Rhode Island camping provides access to the many beaches, ocean and river cruises, fishing spots, and hundreds of miles of cycling and hiking trails. There are numerous Rhode Island campgrounds in state parks and on public land as well as the privately owned campgrounds that generally have fewer restrictions than public lands.

The majority of Rhode Island campgrounds will be found in South County. This region extends from the western edge of Narragansett Bay to the towns of Westerly and Misquamicut on the state's western border with Connecticut, then a little north and inland to the town of Coventry. The county covers most of the ocean coastline of the state west of Narragansett Bay, so primarily Rhode Island beach camping is available here. The longest (and possibly the best) stretch of beaches are along this section of the coast. Inland, there are many lakes, small ponds, and man-made reservoirs, so if your South County Rhode Island camping isn't directly on the ocean, you are likely camping on the shores of a lake, many of which are also the location of state parks and wildlife refuges.

You'll find both public and private Rhode Island campgrounds here, providing freshwater as well as saltwater fishing, boat launches, and other facilities. Do note that virtually no public camping areas, especially on the beaches allow alcoholic beverages or pets. You won't have this restriction with the majority of private facilities. Additionally, the majority will have water, sewer, and electric hook ups for mobile homes and recreational vehicles.

Rhode Island Map

In the northern part of the state, northwest of Providence and Pawtucket is the Blackstone Valley. This is one of the few parts of the state with no ocean coastline. But there is still Rhode Island beach camping on lakes as well as along the course of the beautiful Blackstone River. This region is important to the history of the state as well as the country. It is considered the birthplace of the American Industrial Revolution. Numerous old mills and museums provide things to do other than the myriad outdoor recreational activities. This is also the region for some of the best freshwater fishing in the state.

Newport County encompasses all of Narragansett Bay and its many islands. Included in this region are the beautiful castles and mansions of Newport, the majority of deep sea fishing outfitters, and the major city attractions that are located outside of Providence. Because of the dense population, numerous hotels and resorts, and the small land area of this region, you will find less camping in Rhode Island here than you might otherwise expect, and almost no coastal camping. But there is camping in Rhode Island here primarily for motor homes and recreational vehicles. More Rhode Island camping is available in the Warwick and West Narragansett Bay region. You'll even find a nudist campground here.