Burlingame State Park Campground

Burlingame State Park is, by Rhode Island Standards, a very large swath of land that connects a large campground to bike trails, a wildlife sanctuary, forested trails and a fair sized pond. It lies in the forest of Charlestown in Southern Rhode Island. While the grounds lie in the forest, the beaches are close by and offer plenty of daytime water activities in the area.

The campground is perfect for families, as the property is loaded with amenities to keep the family entertained and comfortable. The camp store has everything you will need from water, food and wood to swim gear and camp novelties. There are a few large bathrooms across the grounds with showers, a rec hall, a playground and sport courts. It is truly a place to ease your family and friends into the camping scene as "glamping" is made easy here.

The 500 loop is quieter during nighttime hours because it is heavily wooded and farther away from the main campground attractions like the general store, athletic court, playground and the pond. For those that enjoy portable hammocks for sleeping/napping and lounging, choose this loop due to the bountiful trees. This area is also farther away from the pond and standing water, eliminating airborne bugs. The entire loop is extremely consistent from campsite to campsite as far as tree cover and space goes.

If you have kids or looking for more conveniences, the 600 loop and loops 0 through 300 are the best options because they will have the closest proximity to amenities like showers, bathrooms, a camp store, etc. Keep in mind that these campsites are in a more field-like setting with a couple of trees around the sites for privacy. If you value campsite privacy, these are not ideal loops. There is ample space, however, between each site in these loops.

The area for cabins L through N has a petite parking area (for those not staying in the cabins) with shoreline that is less popular than the main pond beach. It is small and quiet, good for launching off a kayak or canoe that you brought or rented from the campground. 

East Beach and the Charleston Breachway is very close, as is the Connecticut border. The Block Island Ferry is pretty close by as well. This campground can serve as a good home base for beaching it or exploring southern Rhode Island and Connecticut. You will not have to venture far out of the campground to feel welcomed into Southern Rhode Island society once again. If you will be coming from the north, be sure to stop at Crazy Burger in Narragansett on your way in. 

Keep in mind this is considered a dry campground, so there is no alcohol allowed on the premises. Quiet hours, starting at 10 p.m., are strictly enforced by rangers.