Campsite Neil Armstrong

Campsite Neil Armstrong is a prominent and high-spirited camping destination located within the historic Yawgoog Scout Reservation in Rockville, Rhode Island. Named in honor of the first man to walk on the moon—who was himself a dedicated Eagle Scout—this campsite embodies the spirit of exploration and achievement. For local families and scouting organizations in Rhode Island, Campsite Neil Armstrong is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a vital part of "A Scout Adventureland Forever," a tradition that has thrived in the woods of South County since 1916. The site is situated within the Sandy Beach section of the reservation, often referred to as the "Powerhouse" of Yawgoog due to its high energy, large capacity, and vibrant camp culture.

The atmosphere at Campsite Neil Armstrong is characterized by the unique "Yawgoog Spirit," where campers are immersed in a week-long experience of leadership, fellowship, and outdoor skill-building. As part of Camp Sandy Beach, residents of this site wear the color blue with pride and are part of a legacy that includes legendary camp songs, spirited dining hall cheers, and a commitment to the Scout Law. The site is surrounded by a dense forest of white pines and hardwoods, providing a scenic and shaded environment that remains cool even during the peak of the Rhode Island summer. Whether it is the sound of the morning bugle echoing through the trees or the reflection of the sunset over Yawgoog Pond, Campsite Neil Armstrong offers an immersive escape into the natural beauty of the Ocean State.

Campsite Neil Armstrong is located at 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873. For those traveling from within Rhode Island, the campground is easily accessible via Interstate 95 and Route 138, making it a convenient trip for residents of Providence, Warwick, and the coastal towns of Washington County. The village of Rockville provides a quiet, secluded backdrop, ensuring that the camp feels like a true wilderness retreat despite its proximity to major local hubs. Within the 1,800-acre reservation, Neil Armstrong is positioned in the Sandy Beach area, which is known for its spacious layout and accessibility to the camp's primary program centers.

Accessibility at the site is designed to accommodate large groups and equipment. On-site parking is available for gear drop-off, with long-term parking provided at the nearby Tim O'Neil Field or the Ranger Lot. The trails leading to and from the campsite are well-maintained and clearly marked with colored chevrons, allowing for easy navigation throughout the reservation. While the terrain is relatively flat, it offers enough variation to provide a true woodland experience. The site’s location is particularly advantageous for its proximity to the Metcalf Dining Lodge and the Sandy Beach Waterfront, minimizing the travel time for campers between their "home base" and daily activities.

As a key component of one of the oldest scout camps in the United States, Campsite Neil Armstrong offers a comprehensive range of services that support both traditional summer camp programs and off-season weekend adventures.

• Troop and Patrol Accommodations: The site is equipped to handle large units, offering traditional canvas wall tents on wooden platforms to keep gear dry and secure.
• Dining Hall Services: Residents take their meals at the Metcalf Dining Lodge, where they enjoy nutritious, family-style meals accompanied by the famous Yawgoog camp songs and cheers.
• Waterfront Programming: Full access to the Sandy Beach Waterfront on Yawgoog Pond, including supervised swimming, canoeing, rowing, and paddleboarding.
• Educational Workshops: Participation in the reservation's extensive merit badge program, featuring everything from archery and rifle shooting to environmental science and woodcraft.
• Health and Safety: 24-hour access to the on-site Health Lodge and the supervision of a professional Ranger staff and Campmasters.
• Off-Season Reservations: The site is available for weekend camping from September through mid-April, providing a more rustic experience for troops during the fall and spring.
• Trading Post Access: Proximity to the "407 Outfitters" trading post for camping supplies, souvenirs, and snacks.

Campsite Neil Armstrong is distinguished by several unique features that make it a favorite among scouts and adult leaders alike. These highlights contribute to a memorable and comfortable stay in the Rockville wilderness.

• Themed Heritage: Named after astronaut Neil Armstrong, the site serves as an inspiration for scouts to reach for their own "giant leaps" in personal growth and leadership.
• Central Fire Ring: A large, well-constructed fire pit that serves as the heart of the campsite, perfect for evening reflections and patrol cooking.
• Proximity to Shooting Sports: The site is located near the Lane-Bliven Rifle Range and the David Anderson Archery Range, making it ideal for those interested in marksmanship.
• Modern Sanitation: Access to flush toilets and modern shower facilities located at the Bucklin Building or nearby Sandy Beach facilities.
• Natural Beauty: Located near the "Land of Dead Things" and various hiking trails that offer glimpses of local Rhode Island wildlife, including deer and osprey.
• Communal Spirit: As part of the "Blue" camp, Neil Armstrong residents participate in the quest for the "Sandy Beach Champs" title, awarded to the troop with the most spirit and pride.
• Waterfront Access: Direct and easy access to the shores of Yawgoog Pond for aquatic adventures and evening waterfront programs.

To plan a visit, reserve a week of summer camp, or book an off-season weekend at Campsite Neil Armstrong, contact the Narragansett Council of Scouting America or the Yawgoog seasonal office.

• Physical Address: 61 Camp Yawgoog Road, Rockville, RI 02873, USA
• Mailing Address: Yawgoog Scout Reservation, Attn: Campsite Neil Armstrong, Rockville, RI 02873
• Phone: (401) 539-2311 (Seasonal Reservation Office)
• Council Phone: (401) 351-8700 (Narragansett Council Office)
• Website: www.yawgoog.org

Campsite Neil Armstrong is worth choosing for those who want to experience the very best of Rhode Island's outdoor heritage within a high-energy, supportive environment. Its location in Camp Sandy Beach makes it perfect for troops that thrive on competition, spirit, and social interaction. Unlike more secluded sites, Neil Armstrong keeps you at the center of the action, ensuring that scouts have immediate access to the waterfront, the dining hall, and the program centers that make Yawgoog a world-class destination.

Furthermore, the site provides a factual and safe environment where the traditions of the past meet the adventures of the future. The legacy of its namesake provides a powerful narrative for youth development, encouraging scouts to pursue excellence in all their endeavors. Whether you are looking for a summer of aquatic fun on Yawgoog Pond or a crisp autumn weekend of hiking the colorful trails of Rockville, Campsite Neil Armstrong offers a premier, kid-friendly, and professionally managed experience. For Rhode Islanders seeking a local adventure that feels like a journey to another world, this campsite is a stellar choice that delivers on the promise of the "Yawgoog Spirit."