Charlestown Breachway
00 reviewCharlestown Beach Road, Charlestown, Rhode Island, 02813, United States
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
About this campground
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.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific mention of accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe RV sites are described as tightly packed and small, with 'spaces big enough for RVs and motorhomes.'
Sites 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.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsites"For those campers with towable trailers, excellent maneuvering and parking skills are needed." Generators cause noise and fumes; far-end sites may reduce these issues.
Best CampsitesSites directly adjacent to the breachway or at the very ends of the RV sites are considered the best options according to user reviews.
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 are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRV sites are closely packed in a parking-lot-like layout, with neighbors often just feet away.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal camping, exact dates unspecified.
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.
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.
Fishing
Fishing 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.Swimming
Ocean 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.'Boating
The 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 viewing
The area behind the breachway offers opportunities for observing local wildlife, particularly near the marshes.Beach activities
Beach-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
No specific mention of winter activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular in the calmer waters behind the breachway.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires allowed per user reviews and official sources.
- Quiet hours are Generators must be turned off by 8 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotholes on the access road are a significant hazard. Noise and fumes from generators due to lack of hookups are common complaints.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station at 401-322-8910.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available on-site for trash disposal, but there is no information regarding recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the ocean beach and breachway, with marsh areas behind for calmer water activities.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include tightly packed sites with no privacy, lack of amenities (no showers, sinks, mirrors, water, or electricity), sewage smells, and generator noise.
Host"The young lady in charge of campgrounds went out of her way to help us," noted by a reviewer.
Campground Map
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.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Charlestown Breachway has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % 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
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...
Show more
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,...
Show more
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.
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...
Show more
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...
Show more
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...
Show more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the campground.
Last updated August 10, 2025