George Washington

george washington campground ri, george washington campground map

For Rhode Islanders yearning for a genuine immersion in nature, where the sounds of the forest replace city clamor and starlit nights are the main attraction, George Washington State Campground offers an unparalleled primitive camping experience. Located within the vast 4000-acre George Washington Management Area in Rockville (often associated with Chepachet), this 100-acre overnight facility is a cherished gem for those who appreciate a less developed, more rustic outdoor adventure. It's a place where self-reliance meets serene natural beauty, inviting campers to truly disconnect and recharge.

Imagine setting up camp amidst well-spaced gravel sites, surrounded by mature trees, with the promise of hiking trails and direct access to the beautiful Bowdish Reservoir. George Washington State Campground provides just this kind of authentic outdoor setting. While it's a primitive campground – meaning no electrical hookups at sites – it’s designed for the true camping enthusiast. Whether you're pulling in with a self-contained RV, setting up a traditional tent, or even seeking a hike-in tent platform experience, this state-managed campground offers diverse options for a refreshing retreat into Rhode Island's wilderness.

What truly sets George Washington State Campground apart for local Rhode Islanders is its commitment to providing a raw, untouched outdoor experience within a state park framework. In an era where many campgrounds offer extensive amenities, George Washington maintains its focus on the essentials: spacious sites, natural beauty, and direct access to recreational opportunities like swimming, boating (on Bowdish Reservoir), and miles of hiking trails. This makes it an ideal destination for those who seek to truly unplug and enjoy the simple pleasures of camping without the distractions of modern conveniences often found elsewhere.

The allure of George Washington State Campground also lies in its expansive surrounding management area. The 4000-acre George Washington Management Area provides a multitude of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond the campground itself, visitors can explore diverse trails for hiking and mountain biking, engage in wildlife viewing, and enjoy excellent fishing. It's a place where a single camping trip can serve as a launchpad for days of exploration, making it a highly attractive option for Rhode Islanders who cherish their state's natural resources and seek adventure close to home.

With its emphasis on primitive camping, strategic location on Bowdish Reservoir, and integration within a vast state management area, George Washington State Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation to experience the rugged beauty and tranquility of Rhode Island's outdoors. For those who prioritize peace, nature, and self-sufficiency in their camping adventures, this state campground remains a premier choice for a truly authentic Rhode Island wilderness escape.

George Washington State Campground is located at 61 Camp Yawgoog Rd, Rockville, RI 02873, USA. While the address uses "Rockville," it is more commonly associated with Chepachet, RI, and is nestled within the sprawling 4000-acre George Washington Management Area. This location places it in the western part of Rhode Island, bordering Connecticut, offering a remote yet accessible wilderness experience for locals.

For Rhode Islanders, reaching the campground is straightforward, typically involving a drive along major routes such as US-6 West, I-295 North, and then RI-44 West. The campground entrance is well-marked on Route 44 (Putnam Pike). Despite its primitive nature, the access roads within the management area, particularly those leading to the campground, are generally well-maintained gravel, suitable for RVs and trailers. The emphasis on self-contained units for RV camping underscores its primitive nature, but its accessibility makes it a convenient choice for Rhode Islanders seeking a true escape without venturing too far from home. Its position also allows for relatively easy access to other state parks and management areas in the western part of the state for further exploration.

George Washington State Campground is a primitive camping facility, meaning it focuses on essential services to support an authentic outdoor experience rather than extensive modern amenities. Services offered include:

• 74 well-spaced gravel campsites suitable for self-contained trailers and RVs.
• Separate hike-in tent sites (Angell Loop sites A1-A7, and Hill Sites T1-T5) for a more secluded experience.
• Primitive camping; utilities (electrical, water, sewer hookups) are NOT available at individual campsites.
• Water spigots available throughout the campground for drinking water (drinking water not available at all hike-in sites).
• Flush toilets located in the shower facilities (limited) and solar-powered standalone composting toilets (outhouses/pit toilets).
• Septic dump station available at no charge for registered campers.
• Swimming area on Bowdish Reservoir (restricted to registered campers only when in operation).
• Access to Bowdish Reservoir for boating (small boats, kayak, canoe).
• Hiking trails directly accessible from the campground.
• Picnic tables and fire rings/grates at each campsite.
• Two (2) Adirondack-style shelters available for group camping (limited to 20 persons per shelter).
• Designated parking for non-campground users with permits at the Bowdish Reservoir Boat Ramp (new pilot program).

• Primitive Camping Experience: A key highlight is its focus on primitive camping, offering a raw and authentic outdoor experience without the distractions of electrical or water hookups at individual sites, encouraging self-sufficiency.
• Scenic Bowdish Reservoir Access: The campground is located directly on the shores of Bowdish Reservoir, providing opportunities for swimming (in designated areas), boating (non-motorized or small motorized), and excellent freshwater fishing.
• Vast Management Area: Situated within the 4000-acre George Washington Management Area, offering extensive opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and hunting (in designated areas outside the campground).
• Diverse Site Options: Features a combination of well-spaced gravel sites for RVs/trailers, and more secluded hike-in tent sites, including unique tent platforms for a true wilderness feel.
• Group Shelters: Two Adirondack-style shelters are available for group camping, providing a rustic yet covered option for larger parties.
• Self-Contained Units Required for RVs: This ensures a clean and responsible camping environment, as all RVs/trailers must have permanent holding tanks for all water waste.
• On-site Dump Station: A free septic dump station is provided for registered campers, a crucial amenity for primitive RV camping.
• Hiking Trails Galore: Numerous trails crisscross the surrounding management area, catering to various skill levels, including rocky paths for more expert riders or hikers and dirt roads for casual strolls.
• Peaceful & Secluded: The overall atmosphere is quiet and tranquil, ideal for those looking to truly escape and enjoy nature's serenity away from crowds.

As a Rhode Island State Campground, George Washington's pricing and "promotions" are generally standardized and governed by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM). While you won't find typical commercial campground discounts like "buy two nights, get one free," there are structured rates and policies that benefit campers, particularly locals. It's always best to check the official Rhode Island State Parks website or Reserve America for the most current information, as rates and policies are subject to change.

• Affordable State Park Rates: Compared to many private campgrounds, state park rates are generally more affordable, making a natural escape accessible to a broader range of Rhode Islanders. As of available data, peak season rates for standard sites ranged from $18.00-$36.00 per night, with shelters at $75.00 and cabins (if available) at $50.00-$75.00.
• Seasonal Rates: Rates can vary slightly between peak (late May to early September) and non-peak seasons (April, early May, September, October), potentially offering slightly lower prices or more availability during the shoulder months for locals to enjoy cooler weather camping.
• No Utility Fees: Since individual sites do not have electrical or water hookups, there are no additional attribute fees for these utilities, simplifying pricing.
• Free Septic Dump Station: Registered campers have free use of the on-site septic dump station, a significant convenience for self-contained RVs.
• "Second Car Pass" Fee: While not a promotion, it's important to note a required $12 fee for a second vehicle, which should be factored into planning.

To book a site, Rhode Islanders can use the online reservation system through Reserve America, which is linked from the RI State Parks website. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as primitive sites are popular for their unique charm and location.

For reservations, specific inquiries about site availability, or general questions about George Washington State Campground, Rhode Islanders should contact the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) State Parks & Recreation division. While the physical address is in Rockville, administrative contact is often centralized.

Physical Address: 61 Camp Yawgoog Rd, Rockville, RI 02873, USA (This is the physical location of the campground)

Mailing Address (for administrative inquiries): George Washington Campground, 2185 Putnam Pike, Chepachet, RI 02814

Phone Number for Information: (401) 568-6700

For booking and the most up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to visit the official Rhode Island State Parks website (riparks.ri.gov) and navigate to the George Washington Campground section, which often links directly to the Reserve America booking portal. This online resource will provide detailed policies, availability calendars, and direct booking capabilities.

For Rhode Island locals, George Washington State Campground is an exceptionally suitable and valuable destination for several compelling reasons. Its unique offering of a primitive camping experience within a vast state management area provides an accessible opportunity to truly disconnect and immerse oneself in nature without traveling far from home. This allows busy Rhode Islanders to enjoy genuine wilderness camping, whether for a quick weekend escape or a longer, restorative stay.

The campground's suitability lies in its authentic approach to outdoor recreation. By not offering electrical or water hookups at individual sites, it encourages self-sufficiency and a deeper connection with the natural environment, appealing to those who appreciate simplicity and quietude. The availability of well-spaced gravel sites for self-contained RVs, coupled with secluded hike-in tent sites, caters to a diverse range of camping styles, ensuring that every type of local outdoor enthusiast can find their ideal spot.

Furthermore, the integration of the campground within the 4000-acre George Washington Management Area means that the adventure extends far beyond the campsite itself. Rhode Islanders have immediate access to an extensive network of hiking and mountain biking trails, opportunities for freshwater fishing and non-motorized boating on Bowdish Reservoir, and abundant wildlife viewing. This makes it an excellent base for exploring the rich natural heritage of western Rhode Island. The state-managed nature also means consistent maintenance and adherence to public land values, providing a reliable and well-stewarded resource for the community. For locals seeking a peaceful, primitive, and highly recreational camping experience that truly embraces the essence of Rhode Island's wilderness, George Washington State Campground stands as an unparalleled choice.

George Washington

61 Camp Yawgoog Rd, Rockville, RI 02873, USA