George Washington Memorial Camping Area

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Rustic forest setting on the banks of a sparkling reservoir, George Washington Memorial Camping area has been one of the state’s best-kept secrets. Known best by anglers and hikers, the campground offers a serene atmosphere, yet is close enough to attractions for those wishing to venture afield.

The Setting

Located within the state’s 4,000-acre George Washington management area, and on the shores of Bowdish Reservoir, the 100-acre primitive camping facility offers a multitude of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors such as fishing, swimming, hiking, and boating in the peaceful, heavily forested northwestern corner of the state. Yet, the campsite is close to the historic villages of Chepachet and North Scituate, Rhode Island, well known for its three-day Columbus Day weekend arts festival; as well as to Putnam, the antique center of northeastern Connecticut. It is also less than an hour from the metropolitan Providence, Rhode Island area, known for its historic neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and popular Waterfire events.

The Facility

There are 45 treed, well-spaced gravel sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs. Water is available from various shared spigots throughout the campground; however, electrical hookups are not available. Bathrooms are either outhouses or pit toilets. There are no shower facilities. All trash is carry in¾carry out.

Two Adirondack style shelters are available by reservation for group camping, limited to 20 persons.

Situated in a pine and oak forest, inhabited by upland species of birds and animals as well as deer and beaver, which frequent the wetland areas of the property, the campground includes recreational facilities such as a freshwater beach and boat ramp.

The campground opens the Friday before the opening day of trout season, which always occurs on the second Saturday of April, and remains open through Columbus Day weekend, when the state’s forests are at their prime for viewing foliage. During hunting season, fluorescent orange requirements apply to all users of the adjacent George Washington management area.

Pets (dogs and cats) are allowed in the campground, with some restrictions. Visit the www.riparks.com website for additional information regarding pets.

All visitors are urged to help stop the spread of non-native insects and diseases that can be found in firewood transported from other areas. Please do not bring firewood with you when you camp. Buy it when you reach your destination. Also, don’t take any firewood with you when you leave. Burn it all or give it to other campers at the campground. Thank you for your consideration.

Address

Putnam Pike,
Glocester , RI 02814

Learn more about this park and book your reservation online    

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