East Beach

4.61

384 reviews

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

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Seasonal operation; ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

RV Friendly

Opens RI State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

Free

Booking

Reservable

Sites

20 campsites

Season

Seasonal operation; ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

RV Friendly

Opens RI State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

East Beach

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fee information is explicitly provided for this campground.

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

401-322-0450

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What Campers Say

4.61

Top-Rated

Based on 384 reviews

559 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulcleanbeach

Some mention

noisecrowded

"User reviews are mixed but emphasize the beautiful location and proximity to the ocean. Many appreciate the natural, no-frills experience, while some criticize the lack of amenities and cramped sites."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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

East Beach

East 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 East Beach exit in Charlestown.

The road to the campground is described as having numerous potholes and poor maintenance. User reviews emphasize the challenging terrain, particularly for RVs and trailers.

Nearby supplies

Limited onsite amenities

nearest dump station is within 10 miles. No concession stands or food services

visitors are advised to bring essential supplies.

Best Time to Camp at East Beach

Experience the dynamic personality of Rhode Island's coastal climate throughout the seasons at East Beach. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-soaked paradise, with warm temperatures and long, golden days that stretch well into the evening – perfect for beach walks and sunset photography. As autumn arrives, crisp air and dramatic skies create ideal conditions for cozy campfire gatherings. Winter brings a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere with brisk temperatures and the occasional storm that showcases the ocean's power, while steady coastal breezes keep the air fresh year-round. Spring awakens the shoreline with migrating birds and warming waters, making each season a unique chapter in your camping story.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is most popular: warm for swimming/fishing but can be crowded.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 12% in RI

Fall is quieter and offers excellent conditions per the description and reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers shoulder-season solitude and activities but cooler temps may limit swimming.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is seasonal; exact winter closure dates not specified.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak and shoulder season dates are not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Seasonal operation; exact dates not specified.

About East Beach

Discover the raw beauty of coastal camping at East Beach, where three miles of pristine, undeveloped beachfront await along Charlestown's stunning Rhode Island coastline. This unique destination caters exclusively to self-sufficient adventurers with RVs and self-contained campers, offering an authentic back-to-nature experience just steps from the sand. While the closely-spaced dirt sites may lack the manicured feel of traditional campgrounds, they compensate with unbeatable access to world-class fishing at the breachway, peaceful kayaking in protected waters, and some of the darkest night skies on the East Coast perfect for stargazing. Here, the absence of modern amenities becomes part of the charm, inviting campers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the rhythms of the ocean.

East Beach is primarily a natural, oceanside campground catering to self-contained RV campers. Primitive camping options are also available, but there are no tent or glamping sites. Group camping or cabin lodging is not provided.

Historical SignificanceFor more than five decades, Charlestown Breachway has woven itself into the fabric of countless family traditions, serving as a cherished escape where generations have gathered to share simple pleasures and create lasting memories. This time-honored destination preserves the essence of old-fashioned coastal camping, deliberately maintaining its no-frills character that harks back to a simpler era. Here, the absence of modern resort-style amenities isn't a limitation – it's a beloved feature that keeps alive the authentic spirit of Rhode Island beach camping, where the focus remains on salt air, sand between your toes, and quality time with loved ones.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of Rhode Island's coastal climate throughout the seasons at East Beach. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-soaked paradise, with warm temperatures and long, golden days that stretch well into the evening – perfect for beach walks and sunset photography. As autumn arrives, crisp air and dramatic skies create ideal conditions for cozy campfire gatherings. Winter brings a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere with brisk temperatures and the occasional storm that showcases the ocean's power, while steady coastal breezes keep the air fresh year-round. Spring awakens the shoreline with migrating birds and warming waters, making each season a unique chapter in your camping story.

ElevationNestled at sea level along Rhode Island's southern shore, East Beach offers the quintessential oceanfront camping experience where the gentle slope of the coastline meets the Atlantic's endless horizon.

Natural Features and SceneryWake each morning to a panoramic masterpiece where the Atlantic Ocean stretches endlessly before you, while behind, tranquil marsh areas create a rich tapestry of coastal ecosystems. This remarkable beachfront setting offers front-row seats to nature's daily spectacle – watch shorebirds dance along the tide line at dawn, spot seals playing in the breachway currents, or witness spectacular sunrises paint the sky in brilliant hues. The interplay between ocean, beach, and marsh creates diverse habitats that attract an impressive array of wildlife, from majestic herons stalking the shallows to playful dolphins cruising just beyond the breakers. Every vista tells a story of the wild Rhode Island coast.

Geological RegionEast Beach occupies a fascinating geological niche along a dramatic 3-mile ribbon of undeveloped barrier beach, where powerful ocean currents and tidal forces have sculpted a dynamic landscape over millennia. This pristine stretch showcases the raw interaction between land and sea, featuring rolling dunes, tidal marshes teeming with life, and the ever-changing breachway where fresh and salt waters mingle. The campground's position on this active coastal system offers campers a front-row education in barrier island ecology, where each tide brings new treasures to explore and every storm subtly reshapes the shoreline's contours.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

No explicit stay limit provided in the authoritative or user reviews.

Guests Allowed Per Site

No specific guest limit provided.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of a small, tightly packed dirt lot with RV spaces adjacent to the public beach and breachway.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are recommended and can be made up to a year in advance. Exact platforms not detailed.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability for walk-up reservations; reservations recommended due to high demand.

Cancellation PolicyRefunds are not available for misunderstandings of terms. Violations of rules can lead to revocation of permits, with no refund, and bans for the remainder of the season.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.

Site SizeSites are described as cramped, with minimal spacing between neighbors and small dimensions overall.

PrivacyVery limited privacy. "The RV sites are very close to each other with no privacy," said one reviewer.

Total Campsites20 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites away from generator noise and closer to the breachway for better views. Maneuvering skills are necessary for trailers due to tight parking spaces.

Amenities available

Dump station

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

East Beach offers a range of recreational activities, emphasizing oceanic and natural experiences. Visitors enjoy activities such as beachcombing, bird watching, fishing, and swimming. Boating and kayaking in calmer areas of the breachway are also popular. However, there are no facilities designed specifically for children, and the terrain lacks hiking-specific trails.

FishingFishing is a major highlight, with opportunities to catch a variety of fish. "Great fishing but also amazing blue crab spot," mentioned one reviewer. Another stated, "Children caught a black sea bass and hook up to Tautog regularly."

SwimmingSwimming is accessible at the ocean beach. One reviewer described it as a "private beach," with beautiful water and minimal waves.

BoatingThe campground features a boat ramp, though it is noted to be in disrepair and challenging during high tide currents. "The boat launch is okay, but is in disrepair," said a reviewer.

Wildlife viewingBird watching is explicitly mentioned as an available activity.

Beach activitiesBeach-related activities such as sunbathing and jogging are popular. According to a reviewer, "Spectacular views for days."

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo showers, sinks, or fresh water facilities onsite. Users report poor road conditions with potholes, noise from generators, and occasional sewage smells. Vault toilets are locked nightly at 6 PM, with limited porta-potty access overnight.

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

Fire PolicyCampfires are not permitted.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Generators must be off by 8 PM, with implied quiet hours beginning at this time.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station contact: 401-322-8910. Additional emergency services not specified.

Trash & RecyclingDumpsters are available for trash disposal; no specific information on recycling services.

Water FeaturesDirect access to the ocean, breachway, and marsh areas provides opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Camp HostCampground management and staff receive mixed reviews; some guests note helpful service at check-in.

Weather at East Beach

Reviews

4.6

384 reviews

Top-Rated

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

User reviews are mixed but emphasize the beautiful location and proximity to the ocean. Many appreciate the natural, no-frills experience, while some criticize the lack of amenities and cramped sites.

Review Summaries

Based on 384 reviews

What Campers Love

- Beautiful beach and ocean views. - Excellent fishing opportunities. - Proximity to the breachway provides additional recreational options. - Peaceful environment for relaxing and stargazing. -...

Based on 384 reviews

Common Concerns

- Tight camping quarters with minimal privacy. - Lack of amenities such as showers, potable water, and electricity. - Dirt road access with numerous potholes. - Generators can be noisy and...

Based on 384 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Be self-contained; bring your own water and generator. - Arrive early to secure a good spot near the breachway. - Consider bringing a boat or kayak for additional recreation. - Make reservations...

Based on 384 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with clear skies and warm temperatures ideal for swimming and fishing. However, the campground can get crowded during peak months. Fall is quieter and offers...

Based on 384 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "The location is fantastic and so was the lady checking us in." - "The beach is awesome!! The campground not so much." - "Absolutely beautiful place to go." - "Minimal services. Spectacular views...

Based on 384 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Sites directly adjacent to the breachway are often considered the best. - Reviewers recommend avoiding central sites due to noise and lack of privacy.

Based on 384 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews do not specifically 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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