Campsite Donald Dewing

For residents of Rhode Island, the name "Yawgoog" is often synonymous with tradition, adventure, and the great outdoors. Campsite Donald Dewing, nestled within the expansive 1,800-acre Yawgoog Scout Reservation in Hopkinton, stands as one of the most revered locations for group camping in the region. Named after a legendary scoutmaster who served the Providence area for over five decades, this campsite embodies the spirit of Rhode Island scouting. It is located within Camp Three Point—the oldest and most tradition-filled section of the reservation—offering a unique blend of historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty that has welcomed generations of campers since the park first opened its gates in 1916.

The site is particularly famous for its prime location along the shores of Yawgoog Pond, providing campers with immediate access to one of the most pristine freshwater bodies in the state. Surrounded by dense forests of white pine and deciduous hardwoods, Campsite Donald Dewing offers a serene escape from the daily grind. While primarily serving the scouting community, its reputation for well-maintained grounds and high-capacity facilities makes it a cornerstone of the Rhode Island outdoor landscape. For local users, it represents a place where the values of leadership and environmental stewardship are taught against the backdrop of some of the finest scenery in New England.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite Donald Dewing is located at 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, in the town of Hopkinton, Rhode Island (02833). Situated in the southwestern corner of the state, the camp is conveniently located near the Connecticut border, making it an easy drive for residents from Providence, South County, and even neighboring eastern Connecticut. The journey to the camp takes visitors through the winding, forested roads of Rockville, providing an immediate sense of immersion in the wilderness long before they reach the main gates.

Accessibility at the site is managed with care to balance the rugged nature of the wilderness with the needs of large groups. The campsite features designated on-site parking areas, allowing for the efficient unloading of gear and supplies. Most of the main reservation property utilizes well-groomed trails and some paved roads, which connect the various campsites to central facilities like the dining lodges and program centers. However, due to its waterfront location, the terrain around Donald Dewing includes natural slopes and wooded paths that are best navigated with sturdy footwear. Visitors are encouraged to check in at the Bucklin Building or with the Campmasters upon arrival to receive updated information on parking and accessibility protocols.

Services Offered

Designed to support large-scale group camping and week-long summer programs, Campsite Donald Dewing offers a comprehensive suite of services that ensure a safe and productive stay. These services are tailored to meet the rigorous standards of the Narragansett Council and the Boy Scouts of America:

• High-capacity tent sites capable of hosting up to 75 attendees simultaneously.
• Access to centralized restroom facilities featuring modern flush toilets and shower houses.
• Clean drinking water available at nearby central buildings, such as the Bucklin Building.
• A dedicated trading post (The 407 Outfitters) offering camping gear, souvenirs, and snacks.
• Professional health lodge services available during the peak summer operating season.
• Structured program leadership, with staff-led activities in crafts, nature, and scout skills.
• Off-season reservation options for troops and groups looking for weekend wilderness experiences.

Features and Highlights

The highlights of Campsite Donald Dewing extend far beyond its basic infrastructure. Its placement within the Yawgoog Scout Reservation grants campers access to world-class recreational features that are unique to this corner of Rhode Island:

• Waterfront access to Yawgoog Pond, ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming activities.
• Proximity to the historic Memorial Bell Tower, which tolls daily in honor of service members.
• Over 12 miles of marked hiking trails, including the popular Hidden Lake Trail and paths to Wincheck Pond.
• The Arthur Livingston Kelly Environmental Education Center, a hub for nature study and conservation programs.
• Access to the Challenge Course and climbing walls for teambuilding and physical fitness.
• Exceptional star-gazing opportunities from the Three Point dam on clear nights.
• Historical monuments and courts, including the Donald North Court, reflecting over a century of scouting history.

Contact Information

To inquire about site availability, summer camp registration, or off-season weekend rentals, you can reach the Narragansett Council and the Yawgoog Scout Reservation through the following contact channels:

• Address: 61 Camp Yawgoog Rd, Hopkinton, RI 02833, USA
• Phone: (401) 351-8700
• Alternative Contact: (401) 539-2311 (Direct Camp Office)

What is Worth Choosing

For anyone involved in the Rhode Island scouting community or looking for a premier group camping experience, Campsite Donald Dewing is worth choosing for its unbeatable "Yawgoog Spirit." While there are many campgrounds in the New England area, few possess the deep-rooted history and the meticulously organized environment found here. Choosing this site means choosing a waterfront experience where the legacy of great scoutmasters like Donald Dewing lives on in every campfire and morning formation.

It is particularly recommended for those who value a "balanced" camping experience—one that offers the quiet reflection of a clear night by the pond alongside the high-energy excitement of cheers, songs, and waterfront activities. The site’s location in Camp Three Point places you at the heart of the reservation's most traditional events, yet provides enough space for a troop to grow and bond independently. If you are looking for a place where the scenery is beautiful, the facilities are reliable, and the atmosphere is filled with a century’s worth of adventure, Campsite Donald Dewing remains the gold standard in Rhode Island.