Burlingame State Campgrounds

For Rhode Island residents seeking an authentic and expansive outdoor adventure without venturing far from home, Burlingame State Campgrounds in Charlestown is a premier destination. Located within the vast Burlingame State Park, this beloved campground offers a true "old school" camping experience, complete with rustic charm, ample space, and a strong connection to nature. It's a place where you can truly get away from the everyday hustle and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that the Ocean State has to offer.

Burlingame stands out as one of Rhode Island's largest and most scenic camping destinations, encompassing 3,100 acres of pristine woodland surrounding the beautiful Watchaug Pond. As one satisfied camper noted, it's "one of my favorite campgrounds and you don’t need to drive out of state to NH." This sentiment highlights its convenience and the quality of experience it provides right here in Rhode Island. Whether you're a seasoned camper with your own gear or looking for a cozy cabin retreat, Burlingame offers a variety of options to suit your outdoor preferences.

Beyond the sheer size and natural beauty, Burlingame is praised for its dedicated staff and well-maintained facilities. Reviewers consistently commend the "very nice" staff who are available 24/7 at the entrance, ensuring assistance whenever needed. The commitment to keeping things clean, including the bathhouses, and enforcing a noise ordinance at night, contributes to a comfortable and respectful environment for all campers. This article will explore the various facets that make Burlingame State Campgrounds an ideal choice for Rhode Islanders seeking a memorable outdoor escape, from its extensive recreational opportunities to its family-friendly amenities.

Burlingame State Campgrounds is ideally situated at 75 Burlingame State Park Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA. This address places it squarely within the sprawling Burlingame State Park, a significant natural preserve in the town of Charlestown, located in southern Rhode Island. This location offers a perfect blend of serene natural immersion and convenient access to both inland and coastal attractions.

Charlestown is known for its beautiful coastline, salt ponds, and conservation efforts, providing a picturesque backdrop for the campground. The park's setting around Watchaug Pond, one of Rhode Island's largest freshwater lakes, means campers have direct access to a vast body of water for various activities.

Accessibility to Burlingame State Campgrounds is straightforward for residents across Rhode Island and neighboring states. It is well-connected via major state roads. From Route 1, which runs along the Rhode Island coast, clear signage directs visitors towards Burlingame State Park Road. This ensures a relatively easy drive, whether you're coming from Providence, Newport, or even from eastern Connecticut.

A significant advantage of its location is the proximity to Rhode Island's famed beaches. As one reviewer highlighted, the campground is just a "10-minute drive to East Beach," one of the state's most pristine and less developed ocean beaches. This allows campers to enjoy both freshwater activities at Watchaug Pond and saltwater fun on the Atlantic coast within minutes. Additionally, other popular South County beaches and attractions are easily reachable, making Burlingame a convenient hub for exploring coastal Rhode Island. The ease of access, combined with its secluded natural setting, makes Burlingame an attractive and practical choice for a local camping getaway.

Burlingame State Campgrounds, as a well-established state park facility, provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities designed to support a rustic yet comfortable camping experience for its diverse visitors.

• Campsites: The campground features approximately 700 to 730 rustic campsites, suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Each campsite is generally equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill. It's important to note that these are rustic sites, meaning "no water, electric, or sewer hookups" are available directly at the sites.
• Cabins: In addition to campsites, Burlingame offers about 20 to 26 rustic cabins available for rent. These cabins typically come with two bunk beds (mattresses and bedding are not provided), offering a more sheltered option for campers. They also lack utilities within the cabin.
• 24/7 Staff at Entrance: A significant service highlight is the constant presence of staff "24/7 at the entrance." This ensures that campers can receive assistance or information at any time, enhancing safety and convenience.
• Clean Bathhouses with Showers: The campground provides clean bathhouse facilities with flush toilets and showers. Reviewers note that "showers require a quarter," a common system in state parks to manage water usage. Bathroom renovations are also planned for the 2025-2027 seasons.
• Camp Store: A well-stocked camp store is available on-site, selling "just about everything" you might need or have forgotten. This includes essentials, snacks, and firewood (as bringing outside firewood is typically prohibited for environmental reasons).
• Water Spigots and Dump/Fill-up Stations: Potable water spigots are located in various areas around the campground for drinking and cooking. Two dump/fill-up stations are also available for RV and camper convenience.
• Trash and Recycling: Facilities for trash and recycling are provided, encouraging responsible waste management within the park.
• Boat Ramp and Canoe/Kayak Rentals: Direct access to Watchaug Pond is provided via a boat ramp. For those without their own watercraft, canoe and kayak rentals are available at the camp store.
• Nature Programs and Activities: While specific programs may vary seasonally, Burlingame often provides children's activities and nature classes, fostering engagement with the natural environment.
• Enforcement of Quiet Hours: Management does "doing rounds at night to enforce noise ordinance," which contributes to a peaceful environment for all campers, especially during quiet hours (typically 8 PM to 8 AM).

These comprehensive services ensure that Burlingame State Campgrounds offers a well-supported and enjoyable camping experience for all its visitors.

Burlingame State Campgrounds is celebrated for a collection of features and highlights that make it a premier camping destination in Rhode Island, catering to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts.

• Vast and Rustic Natural Setting: Spanning 3,100 acres of rocky woodland surrounding Watchaug Pond, the campground offers a truly expansive and rustic natural environment. This provides a sense of seclusion and immersion in nature, a key draw for campers seeking an escape.
• Beautiful Watchaug Pond Access: The centerpiece of the park is Watchaug Pond, one of Rhode Island's largest freshwater lakes. Campers have access to a freshwater beach for swimming, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking directly on the pond. The shallow water and no waves on the shoreline make it child-friendly.
• Proximity to Ocean Beaches: A significant advantage for Rhode Islanders is the close proximity to pristine ocean beaches. Notably, it's a "10-minute drive to East Beach," providing easy access to saltwater swimming, sunbathing, and coastal exploration, allowing for a diverse range of water activities.
• Friendly and Attentive Staff: Visitors consistently praise the "very nice" staff who are available "24/7 at the entrance." This round-the-clock presence ensures help is always at hand, contributing to a secure and welcoming atmosphere.
• Well-Enforced Quiet Hours: The management's proactive approach to "doing rounds at night to enforce noise ordinance" is a major highlight for those seeking peace and quiet, particularly during the evening hours, ensuring a restful night's sleep.
• Variety of Camping Options: With over 700 rustic campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs (without hookups), plus approximately 20 to 26 rustic cabins, the campground caters to different camping preferences and comfort levels.
• On-Site Camp Store: The presence of a "store that sells just about everything" is incredibly convenient, ensuring campers can purchase forgotten essentials, snacks, drinks, and firewood without needing to leave the park.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The state park boasts a "vast network of hiking trails," offering ample opportunities for exploration on foot through the scenic woodlands.
• Family-Friendly Amenities: Features like a playground, arcade, and organized children's activities/nature classes ensure that younger campers have plenty to keep them entertained, making it an excellent choice for family vacations.
• Cleanliness and Maintenance: The "clean bathrooms" and overall upkeep of the park reflect a commitment to providing a pleasant and hygienic environment for all visitors.

These combined features make Burlingame State Campgrounds a highly appealing and versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts within Rhode Island.

As a Rhode Island State Campground, Burlingame State Campgrounds primarily operates on a standard fee structure set by the state. Therefore, traditional "promotions or special offers" in the commercial sense (like discount codes or seasonal sales) are not typically available. However, there are inherent values and booking strategies that can be considered advantageous for locals:

• Affordable State Park Rates: Generally, state park camping fees are more affordable than those at private campgrounds, providing excellent value for money. This in itself is a continuous "offer" for budget-conscious campers.
• Off-Peak Season Camping: The campground typically opens in April and closes in October. Camping during the "not a peak season" (like Easter, as noted in a review, or other times outside of Memorial Day to Labor Day) often means fewer crowds, a more peaceful experience, and potentially easier access to desired sites, which can be seen as an informal benefit or "offer."
• Extended Stay Value: While specific "discounts" for extended stays aren't usually advertised, staying for multiple nights allows campers to fully utilize the park's amenities and explore the surrounding area more thoroughly, maximizing the value of their visit. There is a maximum stay of fourteen nights within any twenty-one day period during peak season.
• Included Amenities: The cost of a campsite or cabin rental includes access to a wide array of amenities such as the freshwater beach on Watchaug Pond, hiking trails, playground, and common areas. While showers require quarters, many core activities are included in the base fee.
• Family Passes/State Resident Discounts: While not universally offered, it's always advisable for Rhode Island residents to check the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RI DEM) Parks and Recreation website or inquire directly if there are any specific state resident discounts or annual passes that might offer savings for frequent visitors to state parks.
• First-Come, First-Served Sites (Limited): Although reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, some walk-in sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis. This can be an "offer" for spontaneous campers.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, reservation policies, and any specific seasonal considerations, it is always recommended for Rhode Island locals to visit the official Rhode Island State Parks website or contact Burlingame State Campgrounds directly using the provided contact information.

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about Burlingame State Campgrounds, you can reach them through the following contact details:

Address: 75 Burlingame State Park Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA

Phone: (401) 322-8910

Mobile Phone: +1 401-322-8910

Given that staff are available "24/7 at the entrance," calling the provided numbers is the most direct way to get assistance, especially for real-time information or help during your stay. Reservations, particularly during peak season, are highly recommended and can typically be made through the Rhode Island State Parks reservation system online.

For Rhode Island residents, Burlingame State Campgrounds in Charlestown stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for experiencing the joys of outdoor recreation. Its unique combination of extensive natural beauty, diverse activities, essential amenities, and a dedicated staff makes it an ideal choice for a local escape, whether for a weekend or a longer vacation.

The accessibility is paramount for Rhode Islanders. Located conveniently in South County, Burlingame is a relatively short drive from anywhere in the state, allowing for easy transitions from daily life to a refreshing natural retreat. This minimizes travel time, maximizing your opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. The fact that you "don’t need to drive out of state to NH" to find a high-quality camping experience speaks volumes about what Burlingame offers right in your backyard.

The sheer scale and diversity of the park are significant draws. With 3,100 acres of woodland and the expansive Watchaug Pond, there's always something new to explore. Rhode Islanders can enjoy freshwater swimming and boating on the pond, or take a quick "10-minute drive to East Beach" for ocean adventures. This unique combination of pond and ocean access is a rare find and caters to a wide range of water enthusiasts. The "lots of trails to hike" within the park also offer ample opportunities for land-based exploration, satisfying avid hikers and casual strollers alike.

Furthermore, the practical aspects of Burlingame make it highly suitable. The presence of friendly and helpful staff "24/7 at the entrance" provides peace of mind, ensuring assistance is always available. The clean bathhouses and the well-enforced "noise ordinance" contribute to a comfortable and respectful environment for all campers, crucial for a relaxing getaway. The on-site store, which "sells just about everything," adds a layer of convenience, so you don't have to leave the park for forgotten essentials.

In conclusion, Burlingame State Campgrounds offers Rhode Islanders a truly comprehensive and authentic camping experience. It’s a place where you can reconnect with nature, enjoy a multitude of recreational activities, and experience a well-managed and welcoming environment, all within the beautiful confines of your home state. It's the perfect destination for building cherished outdoor memories, year after year.

Burlingame State Campgrounds

75 Burlingame State Park Rd, Charlestown, RI 02813, USA