Charlestown Breachway

4.61

384 reviews

Charlestown Beach Road, Charlestown, Rhode Island, 02813, United States

StargazingSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Seasonal camping, ex...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

RV Friendly

Opens Rhode Island State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Seasonal camping, ex...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

RV Friendly

Opens Rhode Island State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Charlestown Breachway

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

401-322-8910

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What Campers Say

4.61

Top-Rated

Based on 384 reviews

559 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanbeach

Some mention

noise

"Most user reviews highlight the campground's scenic location and proximity to the beach and breachway, making it ideal for fishing, boating, and beach activities. However, the campground's minimal amenities, tightly packed sites, and lack of privacy are frequent complaints. Generators are a common issue, causing noise and fumes."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Charlestown Beach Road, Charlestown, Rhode Island, 02813, United States

Charlestown Breachway

Charlestown Beach Road, Charlestown, Rhode Island, 02813, United States

Driving directionsDirections from Providence - Take Interstate Route 95 South, to Route 4 South, to Route 1 South, to Charlestown Breachway exit, follow signs to Charlestown Breachway.

The road to the campground has more potholes than you can count, described by user reviews as 'terrible.' Seasonal closures or restrictions are not mentioned.

Best Time to Camp at Charlestown Breachway

Each season paints a different portrait at Charlestown Breachway. Summer arrives with warm, salt-tinged breezes that carry the distinctive humidity of the Atlantic, creating those hazy, dreamlike days perfect for beachcombing. As autumn settles in, the atmosphere transforms—crisp air replaces summer's mugginess, and the night sky becomes a brilliant tapestry of stars unobscured by city lights. Winter camping rewards the adventurous with dramatic seascapes and invigorating ocean winds that can range from gentle whispers to powerful gusts, reminding you of nature's raw energy. Spring brings renewal and milder conditions, ideal for watching the coastline awaken from its winter slumber.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is most popular; best for beach activities, fishing, and boating per reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall likely offers good views and fewer crowds, but fewer explicit review data.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers coastal activity potential and quieter visits, though data are limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Seasonal camping noted; most reviews focus on summer, winter access/comfort unclear.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Seasonal camping, exact dates unspecified.

About Charlestown Breachway

Charlestown Breachway offers a refreshingly simple camping experience where the rhythm of ocean waves replaces the usual campground bustle. This no-frills RV destination strips away the extras to deliver something extraordinary: unobstructed access to Rhode Island's stunning coastline. While seasoned campers affectionately call it 'a parking lot on the beach,' this understates its true appeal—imagine waking up to panoramic views of Block Island Sound right outside your RV door. The campground provides only the essentials (vault toilets and dumpsters), but when you're parked this close to paradise, who needs more?

Charlestown Breachway is specifically designed for self-contained RV camping. Tent, group, and primitive camping are not supported, and the sites lack any form of hookups. The campground is essentially a parking lot with designated spaces for RVs.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different portrait at Charlestown Breachway. Summer arrives with warm, salt-tinged breezes that carry the distinctive humidity of the Atlantic, creating those hazy, dreamlike days perfect for beachcombing. As autumn settles in, the atmosphere transforms—crisp air replaces summer's mugginess, and the night sky becomes a brilliant tapestry of stars unobscured by city lights. Winter camping rewards the adventurous with dramatic seascapes and invigorating ocean winds that can range from gentle whispers to powerful gusts, reminding you of nature's raw energy. Spring brings renewal and milder conditions, ideal for watching the coastline awaken from its winter slumber.

Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the edge of where land meets sea, Charlestown Breachway serves as your front-row seat to nature's daily spectacle. The campground's eastern exposure treats early risers to spectacular sunrises over Block Island Sound, where the horizon stretches endlessly and fishing boats dot the seascape. Behind the breachway, a tranquil world awaits—protected marshlands create a paddler's paradise where kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders can explore winding waterways teeming with coastal wildlife. The contrast between the open ocean's energy and the marsh's serenity offers campers two distinct natural experiences within steps of their RV.

Geological RegionPositioned strategically on the eastern edge of the Breachway, this unique camping spot occupies a fascinating geological intersection where dynamic coastal forces have shaped the landscape over millennia. The campground sits at the meeting point of three distinct ecosystems: the powerful Atlantic waters of Block Island Sound, the protected salt marsh systems that weave inland, and the sandy barrier beach that buffers the coast. This convergence creates a living classroom of coastal geology, where campers can witness the constant interplay between ocean currents, tidal movements, and the resilient landforms that define Rhode Island's southern shore.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Reservations can be made up to one year in advance.

Guests Allowed Per Site

RV site size limitations are noted, but capacity details are unavailable.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutRV sites are closely packed in a parking-lot-like layout, with neighbors often just feet away.

Walk-in AvailabilityEarly reservations are strongly recommended per user reviews, as the beach parking lot fills early and camping sites are tightly packed.

Cancellation PolicyRefunds are not available for misunderstanding of reservation terms. Violation of rules may lead to revocation of permits without refunds.

AccessibilityNo specific mention of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe RV sites are described as tightly packed and small, with 'spaces big enough for RVs and motorhomes.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal as the sites are tightly packed. User reviews frequently noted the lack of privacy, mentioning that 'neighbors' awnings were about 12 inches from our rig' and 'you are right on top of your neighbors.

Recommended SitesFor those campers with towable trailers, excellent maneuvering and parking skills are needed." Generators cause noise and fumes; far-end sites may reduce these issues.

Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational opportunities at Charlestown Breachway focus on its proximity to the ocean. Popular activities include fishing, beachcombing, boating, swimming, and wildlife observation. Kayaking and paddleboarding are particularly appealing along the calmer waters behind the breachway. Some reviews highlight the area as ideal for blue crabbing and fishing for species like black sea bass and tautog.

FishingFishing is a major draw at Charlestown Breachway, with several reviews praising its quality. One user reported 'children caught a black sea bass and hooked up to tautog regularly,' while another noted 'the fishing here is terrific with stripers and blues all night long.' The breachway and nearby beach are prime spots for anglers.

SwimmingOcean swimming is accessible, and the nearby beach offers a great environment for sunbathing and enjoying the water. A user noted, 'Water is gorgeous, no waves.'

BoatingThe campground includes a boat launch ramp that facilitates boating. However, the ramp is in disrepair and 'very difficult to use during tidal currents,' according to one review. Kayakers and paddleboarders may prefer the marsh areas behind the breachway where waters are calmer.

Wildlife viewingThe area behind the breachway offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, particularly near the marshes.

Beach activitiesBeach-related activities such as sunbathing and beachcombing are popular. The clean beach and gorgeous sunsets contribute to the appeal, though some users noted limited parking at the beach.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotholes on the access road are a significant hazard. Noise and fumes from generators due to lack of hookups are common complaints.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyNo campfires allowed per user reviews and official sources.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Generators must be turned off by 8 PM.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station at 401-322-8910.

Trash & RecyclingDumpsters are available on-site for trash disposal, but there is no information regarding recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to the ocean beach and breachway, with marsh areas behind for calmer water activities.

Camp Host"The young lady in charge of campgrounds went out of her way to help us," noted by a reviewer.

Weather at Charlestown Breachway

Reviews

4.6

384 reviews

Top-Rated

Charlestown Breachway is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Most user reviews highlight the campground's scenic location and proximity to the beach and breachway, making it ideal for fishing, boating, and beach activities. However, the campground's minimal amenities, tightly packed sites, and lack of privacy are frequent complaints. Generators are a common issue, causing noise and fumes.

Review Summaries

Based on 384 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include scenic ocean views, excellent fishing opportunities, and proximity to the beach. Many users appreciate the 'beautiful sunsets,' 'clean beach,' and the ability to engage in...

Based on 384 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints center around the lack of amenities, including no water, electricity, or dump stations. Many users also noted poor road conditions leading to the campground, tightly packed sites,...

Based on 384 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring all necessary supplies, as there are no camp stores or nearby concessions. Recommended for self-contained RVs only. Make reservations a year in advance due to high demand.

Based on 384 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with positive feedback on beach activities and fishing. However, some users note that generator noise and tightly packed sites diminish the experience during high...

Based on 384 reviews

Camper Quotes

-'You can't camp any closer to the water. Fishing at the breachway just steps from your camper is great.' - Jim Perry -'Charlestown Breachway has been our family’s go-to for over 50 years. It is a...

Based on 384 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites alongside the breachway or at the very ends of the RV area are considered the best, as they offer better views and slightly less crowding. Maneuvering larger trailers into some sites can be...

Based on 384 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features.

Based on 384 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed at the campground.

Based on 384 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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