Campsite Manchosi

For outdoor enthusiasts in Rhode Island, Campsite Manchosi offers a quintessential New England camping experience. Located in the quiet village of Rockville, within the expansive Yawgoog Scout Reservation, this site is widely recognized for its stunning lakeside positioning. As part of one of the oldest and most prestigious scouting reservations in the United States, Manchosi provides a unique blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Local residents often look for destinations that offer more than just a place to sleep; they seek an environment that fosters a deep connection with the outdoors, and this campsite delivers exactly that with its serene views and wooded surroundings.

Manchosi is situated within the Camp Medicine Bow section of the reservation, often called the "Heart of Yawgoog." This area is famous for its vibrant spirit, distinct traditions, and its mascot, Elmo the Elk. For Rhode Islanders, a trip to this part of the state means leaving behind the coastal crowds and immersing oneself in the dense forests of South County. The campsite is specifically designed to accommodate groups and families who prioritize water access and a central location within the camp’s active social hub. Whether you are there for a structured summer program or a peaceful off-season retreat, the atmosphere at Manchosi is one of relaxed adventure and community engagement.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite Manchosi is located at the Yawgoog Scout Reservation in Rockville, RI 02873, USA. Positioned in the southwestern corner of the state near the Connecticut border, it is easily reachable for locals. From Providence, the drive is approximately 45 minutes south via I-95 and Route 138. The reservation is well-signposted, guiding visitors through the scenic backroads of Hopkinton to the main entrance on Camp Yawgoog Road. Its location within the "Medicine Bow" sub-camp puts it in the middle of the reservation's three major sections, making it a strategic home base for exploring the entire 1,800-acre property.

Accessibility at the site is maintained with a focus on preserving the rugged nature of the forest. The terrain around Manchosi is relatively flat, which is a hallmark of the Yawgoog landscape, though campers should be prepared for natural dirt and pine-needle paths. For those arriving with gear, the reservation provides designated parking areas such as the Ranger Lot or Tim O’Neil Field. During the off-season, accessibility to the site for loading and unloading is generally coordinated through the Campmaster’s office in the Bucklin Building. The proximity of the site to main roads within the reservation ensures that emergency services and camp staff can reach the area quickly if needed.

Services Offered

• Large group camping plots suitable for multiple tents and outdoor gear.
• Seasonal access to centralized dining facilities at Rathom Lodge or Bucklin Building.
• Potable water stations located within a short walking distance from the campsite.
• Clean restroom facilities, including flush toilets available during the peak summer and fall seasons.
• On-site waste management and recycling receptacles to support "Leave No Trace" principles.
• Professional campmaster oversight and security throughout the reservation.
• Access to the Armington Memorial Health Lodge for first aid and medical assistance.
• Trading Post services offering camping supplies, snacks, and Rhode Island souvenirs.
• Firewood availability through the camp’s wood-lot services, adhering to local environmental regulations.
• Off-season reservation services for community groups, families, and organizations.

Features and Highlights

• Prime lakeside frontage on Yawgoog Pond, offering immediate views and water access.
• Close proximity to the Albert Gunther Waterfront for swimming, sailing, and canoeing.
• Dedicated "Good for Kids" status, with shallow water areas and kid-friendly activity centers nearby.
• Access to over six color-coded hiking trails that span the entire 1,800-acre wilderness.
• Adjacent to the H. Cushman Anthony Stockade, a hub for handicrafts and Native American lore.
• A natural canopy of white pines and deciduous trees providing excellent shade and privacy.
• Proximity to the Ashaway Aquatics Center and the reservation’s active motorboat patrol area.
• Participation in Medicine Bow traditions, including campfire skits and weekly theme events.
• Excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities, including local deer and herons.
• Historical landmarks throughout the reservation that showcase over a century of Rhode Island outdoor history.

Contact Information

For more information on site availability or to book a stay at Campsite Manchosi, you can reach the administrative offices using the following details:

• Address: 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873, USA
• Phone: (401) 539-2311
• Fax: (401) 539-0760
• Affiliation: Narragansett Council, Scouting America

What is Worth Choosing

When selecting a spot within the vast Yawgoog Reservation, Campsite Manchosi is worth choosing specifically for its "nice lakeside" location. Unlike some of the more interior wooded sites, Manchosi allows campers to wake up to the sun reflecting off Yawgoog Pond. This makes it an ideal choice for those who plan to spend a significant portion of their time on the water. The convenience of being able to walk directly from your tent to the waterfront or the canoe racks saves time and makes for a much more cohesive outdoor experience, especially for those traveling with children who are eager to get to the swimming areas.

Furthermore, Manchosi is an excellent pick for those who want to be at the center of the action. Being in Camp Medicine Bow means you are close to the Rathom Lodge dining hall and the main athletic fields. For families or troops who enjoy the social aspect of camping—such as the Thursday night scavenger hunts or the Friday night shows at the J. Harold Williams Amphitheatre—Manchosi provides the shortest commutes to these events. It strikes a rare balance: you get the peaceful, aesthetic beauty of a lakeside retreat while remaining just a few minutes' walk from the modern amenities and high-energy programs that make Rhode Island’s premier scout reservation so famous.