Campsite Backwoods

For many Rhode Islanders, the mention of Rockville brings to mind the smell of pine needles, the sound of rhythmic camp songs, and the sprawling 1,800-acre wilderness known as the Yawgoog Scout Reservation. Within this legendary landscape lies Campsite Backwoods, a destination that has served as a cornerstone for outdoor tradition in the Ocean State for over half a century. Located in the Camp Sandy Beach section of the reservation, Backwoods is more than just a place to set up camp; it is a repository of memories for generations of local scouts and families. As one of the more distinct sites in the northern district of the camp, it offers a rustic and immersive experience that captures the essence of the New England forest while providing a structured environment for character building and skill development.

Campsite Backwoods is particularly famous for its unique layout and traditional shelter options, setting it apart from the standard tent sites found elsewhere on the reservation. For local users, the site represents a bridge between the past and the present. It is a place where the same songs have been sung in the mess hall for decades and where the topography of the land remains largely unchanged since the early 1970s. Whether you are a former scout looking to pass down traditions or a new camper eager to experience the "Powerhouse" of Camp Sandy Beach, Backwoods provides a scenic and historic home base. Its reputation for fostering a deep connection with nature is bolstered by its position among mature timber and its proximity to the pristine waters of Yawgoog Pond, making it a premier choice for those seeking an authentic Rhode Island outdoor escape.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite Backwoods is located at the Yawgoog Scout Reservation, 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873, USA. Nestled in the southwestern corner of Rhode Island in the town of Hopkinton, the reservation is a convenient journey for residents across the state. From the Providence area, it is approximately a 45-to-55-minute drive via I-95 South and RI-138 West. The village of Rockville offers a quiet, rural setting that feels secluded despite its accessibility to major thoroughfares, allowing campers to quickly transition from suburban life to deep-woods tranquility.

Within the reservation, Campsite Backwoods is situated in the Camp Sandy Beach loop. Accessibility is maintained through a series of well-marked trails and service roads. While the camp emphasizes a "pedestrian-first" philosophy to ensure safety and preserve the natural environment, the site is reachable for gear transport during designated check-in periods. Centralized parking is provided in the Sandy Beach Lot or the Tim O'Neil Field, and from there, it is a manageable walk to the campsite. The terrain around Backwoods is characteristic of the Sandy Beach area—relatively level with sandy soil and pine-needle-covered paths—making it more accessible for groups with substantial equipment compared to the rockier outcrops of the reservation’s older sections.

Services Offered

• Traditional three-sided lean-to shelters (Adirondack style) for a rugged, permanent camping experience.
• Seasonal tent platforms and canvas wall tents provided during the eight-week summer program.
• Full-service dining at Metcalf Hall, serving three family-style meals daily during peak operations.
• Access to the Armington Memorial Health Lodge, which provides 24/7 medical services and first aid.
• Trading Post access at the Medicine Bow or Sandy Beach centers for camping gear, snacks, and official memorabilia.
• Sanitary facilities including centralized bathhouses with private hot showers and flush toilets.
• Drinking water access via potable water spigots and hydration stations located throughout the loop.
• Professional campmaster oversight for weekend reservations and off-season camping from September to April.
• Educational programming including over 45 merit badge options ranging from Leathercraft to Archery.
• Waste management services including centralized trash collection points to maintain a clean ecosystem.

Features and Highlights

• Distinctive lean-to shelters that offer protection from the elements while maintaining an open-air feel.
• Proximity to the Sandy Beach Waterfront for activities like swimming, canoeing, and sailing on Yawgoog Pond.
• Direct access to a network of six color-coded hiking trails spanning the 1,800-acre reservation.
• Close to the Lane-Bliven Rifle Range and the Sandy Beach Archery Range for shooting sports enthusiasts.
• Centrally located near Phillips Island, a favorite spot for perch fishing and canoe excursions.
• Features a dedicated campfire ring for unit-level songs, storytelling, and evening reflection.
• Integration into the "Powerhouse" spirit of Camp Sandy Beach, including participation in legendary mess hall songs.
• A natural canopy of white pines and hardwoods providing extensive shade and a serene forest atmosphere.
• Excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities, including white-tailed deer and native herons.
• Proximity to the "Fort" in Medicine Bow for traditional handicraft activities like basketweaving.

Contact Information

For those looking to book a stay at Campsite Backwoods or wishing to learn more about the Narragansett Council’s programs, the following contact details are available:

• Address: 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873, USA
• Phone: (401) 539-2311
• Organization: Narragansett Council, Scouting America
• Website: www.yawgoog.org

What is Worth Choosing

Campsite Backwoods is worth choosing specifically for the camper who appreciates the history and unique architecture of traditional scouting. As one of the few sites featuring permanent lean-to shelters, it offers a "classic" camping vibe that is increasingly rare in modern campgrounds. This setup is ideal for groups that want to focus on woodcraft and outdoor skills without the daily task of tent maintenance. For Rhode Island families and troops, this site provides a sense of continuity; it is a place where you can sleep in the same type of shelter that scouts used fifty years ago, creating a powerful link across generations.

Furthermore, Backwoods is a top-tier choice for those who want to be immersed in the energetic culture of Camp Sandy Beach. Its location ensures you are close to the Metcalf Hall dining experience—complete with thunderous camp songs and cheers—and just a short walk from some of the best freshwater boating and swimming in the state. If you are looking for a site that balances rustic seclusion with the convenience of high-quality facilities and a vibrant social atmosphere, Backwoods stands out as a premier destination. It is worth choosing for its ability to turn a simple camping trip into a lifelong memory, built on the foundations of tradition, nature, and the unique spirit of Yawgoog.