Campsite John Glenn

For families and youth organizations across the Ocean State, the name Yawgoog is synonymous with tradition, adventure, and the quintessential Rhode Island outdoor experience. Nestled within this massive 1,800-acre wilderness in the town of Hopkinton (specifically the village of Rockville) lies Campsite John Glenn. As one of the marquee campsites located within the Camp Sandy Beach section of the Yawgoog Scout Reservation, this site offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern recreational access. Named in honor of the legendary American astronaut and Senator John Glenn, the campsite serves as a home base for scouts and outdoor enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of South County.

Campsite John Glenn is part of a "seaside village" of canvas and pine. Unlike traditional commercial campgrounds, this site is designed to foster leadership, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for nature. It is located in the section of the reservation known as the "Powerhouse of Yawgoog," an area characterized by high energy, spirited cheers, and immediate access to some of the finest freshwater amenities in New England. For local Rhode Islanders, choosing this campsite means participating in a legacy that dates back over a century, providing a safe and structured environment where the sounds of the morning bugle and the lapping waves of Yawgoog Pond create a lasting summer soundtrack.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite John Glenn is situated within the Yawgoog Scout Reservation, located at 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873, USA. For residents of Rhode Island, the location is exceptionally convenient, sitting just off Route 138 and only a short drive from the Connecticut border. It is approximately 35 miles from Providence and 16 miles from the coastal charms of Westerly, making it an accessible weekend getaway for those living in the northern part of the state or a quick trip for South County locals.

Accessibility within the reservation is well-managed, though it retains the rustic charm of a woodland retreat. Campsite John Glenn is located in the northern portion of the reservation within Camp Sandy Beach. While the terrain of the reservation is generally flat, the path to the campsite involves well-worn forest trails that are manageable for most hikers and campers. For those with equipment, the reservation provides organized check-in procedures to help transport gear to the site. The proximity of the campsite to Metcalf Lodge and the Sandy Beach Waterfront means that major program centers are just a short walk away, ensuring that campers spend more time participating in activities and less time trekking through the woods.

Services Offered

• High-capacity group camping facilities capable of accommodating large units or multiple patrols simultaneously.
• Full-service dining options provided at the nearby Jesse H. Metcalf Lodge, featuring professionally prepared meals for resident campers.
• Access to the specialized "New Frontiers" program designed to assist younger campers in mastering basic outdoor skills.
• On-site medical services provided by the Reservation Health Lodge, staffed by qualified medical professionals 24/7 during the summer season.
• Professional shooting sports instruction, including access to the Lane-Bliven Rifle Range and the David Anderson Archery Range.
• Trading Post services offering camping gear, souvenirs, snacks, and official Scouting America apparel and equipment.
• Structured merit badge programs and educational workshops led by a dedicated summer staff of over 200 counselors.
• Winter and off-season cabin rentals for troops and groups looking for a year-round outdoor experience in Hopkinton.

Features and Highlights

• Premier waterfront access at the Sandy Beach Waterfront, offering swimming, snorkeling, and lifeguarding instruction.
• Extensive boating fleet featuring canoes, rowboats, kayaks, and paddleboards for exploring the 165-acre Yawgoog Pond.
• Close proximity to the Reservation Baker and the famous Bake Shoppe, known for providing fresh treats to the Sandy Beach community.
• Individualized site infrastructure including heavy-duty canvas tents on raised wooden platforms, fire rings, and picnic tables.
• Access to the 407 Outfitters building for specialized outdoor equipment and high-adventure trip planning.
• Integration with the "Sandy Beach Spirit" traditions, including participation in the coveted Sandy Beach Champs competition.
• Miles of marked hiking trails, including the Yellow Chevron and Blue Chevron trails, which wind through the diverse deciduous and evergreen forests.
• Unique historical landmarks nearby, such as the Memorial Bell Tower and the various historic lodges that dot the reservation.

Contact Information

To inquire about site availability at Campsite John Glenn or to learn more about the seasonal programs offered by the Narragansett Council, you can contact the main reservation office. The physical and mailing address is 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873. For general inquiries or to speak with a reservation representative, you can call (401) 397-5512 or the council office at (401) 351-8700. During the active summer months, the camp office is the hub for all scheduling and logistics. Reservations for the off-season or for specific troop weeks should be made well in advance through the Narragansett Council’s online portal, as this site is among the most popular in the reservation.

What is Worth Choosing

Campsite John Glenn is worth choosing for those who want to be in the "heart of the action." While other campsites on the reservation may offer more seclusion, John Glenn provides an unparalleled energy that is perfect for large groups and spirited youth. Its location within Camp Sandy Beach—the largest and often considered the most "spirited" of the three camps—ensures that campers are never far from a cheer, a song, or a high-energy activity. If you have a group that loves water sports and shooting sports, this site's proximity to the rifle range and the kayak docks makes it a logistical dream.

Furthermore, choosing this site is a way to connect with a legacy of leadership. The association with the John Glenn name serves as a daily inspiration for campers to aim high and explore new horizons. For Rhode Island parents, it provides peace of mind knowing their children are in a "Scout Adventureland Forever" that prioritizes safety, values, and the development of lifelong skills. Whether you are looking for the thrill of the "Bronze Gods" at the waterfront or the quiet camaraderie of a campfire under the tall pines of Hopkinton, Campsite John Glenn offers a premier gateway to the best of Rhode Island's natural heritage.