Burlingame State Campgrounds

For residents of the Ocean State and visitors alike, Burlingame State Campground represents more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a quintessential Rhode Island summer tradition. Sprawling across 3,100 acres of rocky woodland in Charlestown, the park is one of the largest and most popular state-operated campgrounds in the Northeast. Centered around the pristine Watchaug Pond, one of Rhode Island’s largest freshwater bodies, Burlingame offers a unique opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the coastal forest while remaining just a short drive from the famous beaches of South County. Whether you are a local seeking a quick weekend retreat or a traveler looking for a family-friendly home base, Burlingame provides a scale and atmosphere that is truly unmatched in the region.

Established in 1930 and named after Edwin A. Burlingame, the park has a rich history, having served as a base for the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and even as a rest camp for naval personnel during World War II. Today, the campground retains a rustic, authentic feel that prioritizes nature over commercial flash. With over 700 campsites and a handful of cozy cabins, the community here is diverse, ranging from multi-generational families who have occupied the same sites for decades to solo hikers exploring the nearby trails. The sound of children playing, the smell of wood smoke, and the evening call of native loons over the pond create an environment that feels a world away from the hustle of modern life.

Location and accessibility are key factors that contribute to Burlingame’s enduring popularity. Situated at 75 Burlingame State Park Rd in Charlestown, RI 02813, the campground is remarkably easy to reach via Route 1, the main coastal artery of South County. For Rhode Island residents coming from Providence or Warwick, the drive is a convenient 40 to 50 minutes, while those traveling from neighboring Connecticut find it just as accessible. Once inside the park, the infrastructure is designed to accommodate the heavy traffic of peak season, with 24-hour staffing at the ranger station and a well-marked gate system to ensure the safety and privacy of campers.

The facility is committed to being accessible to all nature lovers. It features wheelchair-accessible entrances, designated accessible parking lots, and modified restroom and shower facilities to accommodate guests with mobility needs. While the campground is vast, the primary common areas—including the freshwater beach and the camp store—are positioned to be reachable for most visitors. For those looking to explore beyond the park, the legendary Misquamicut State Beach is only a 15-minute drive away, offering a perfect blend of freshwater lake life and saltwater ocean adventures within a single trip.

Services offered at Burlingame State Campground are tailored toward a "rustic-modern" experience. While the sites themselves are famously primitive (lacking individual electric or water hookups), the centralized services are robust enough to support a comfortable stay for over 800 groups at a time. The presence of an on-site camp store is a major convenience, providing essentials that save campers from having to leave the park for every minor necessity.

• On-site services including a comprehensive camp store selling ice, coffee, souvenirs, and firewood.
• Sanitary dump stations and freshwater filling stations available for RV and trailer owners.
• Centrally located bathhouses featuring public restrooms and pay-metered hot showers.
• Dedicated park ranger patrols and a staffed headquarters to assist with site management and safety.
• Canoe and kayak rentals available for exploring the 573-acre Watchaug Pond.
• NFC mobile payment options alongside traditional credit and debit card acceptance for camping fees and store purchases.
• Seasonal nature programs and educational activities hosted at the nearby Kimball Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Trash and recycling collection areas strategically placed throughout the park's multiple "camp" loops.

The features and highlights of Burlingame are diverse, ensuring that there is something to engage every type of camper. The park’s layout is divided into several sections, such as "Main Camp," "Fish Camp," and "Mills Camp," each offering a slightly different vibe and proximity to the water or recreation fields. The inclusion of modern sports facilities alongside natural trails makes it a premier destination for active families.

• Over 700 rustic tent and trailer sites, many featuring high foliage for natural privacy.
• 20 cozy wooden cabins equipped with bunk beds and screened windows, perfect for "glamping" beginners.
• A dedicated freshwater beach on Watchaug Pond with a roped-off swimming area and seasonal lifeguard.
• The 8-mile John Vincent Gormley Trail, a premier hiking loop that circles the pond and connects to the Kimball Sanctuary.
• Extensive sports facilities including a baseball field, basketball court, and volleyball court.
• Multiple playgrounds for children, complete with swings and slides.
• An on-site arcade and recreation hall for rainy day entertainment.
• Pet-friendly policies that welcome well-behaved dogs on a leash throughout the campgrounds.

For those looking to plan a visit, it is highly recommended to use the official Rhode Island State Parks reservation system (ReserveAmerica). Due to the park's popularity, weekend sites and cabins often book up months in advance. It is also important to note the local firewood policy: to prevent the spread of invasive insects, outside wood is generally prohibited, but kiln-dried wood is readily available for purchase at the camp store.

Address: 75 Burlingame State Park Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA

Phone: (401) 322-8910

What is worth choosing about Burlingame is the sheer variety of experiences it offers within its borders. You can wake up in a quiet, wooded site, spend the afternoon swimming in a calm freshwater lake, and then head to a world-class ocean beach for dinner—all without ever traveling more than a few miles. For families with children, the "kid-friendly" atmosphere is undeniable; the sight of dozens of kids on bicycles and the availability of hiking trails tailored for small legs make it an ideal place to introduce the next generation to the outdoors. The "Main Camp" area is perfect for those who enjoy a lively, social atmosphere, while sections like "Fish Camp" offer a more serene experience for those seeking peace and quiet.

Furthermore, the value proposition of Burlingame is hard to beat. Even with the requirement for pay-metered showers and the purchase of on-site wood, the daily camping fees remain some of the most competitive in the region. The security provided by frequent ranger patrols and the professionalism of the staff ensure a respectful environment even when the park is at full capacity. If you are looking for an authentic Rhode Island camping experience that combines the best of the woods and the water, Burlingame State Campground remains the gold standard in the Charlestown area.