Arcadia Backpack Area
00 reviewEscoheag Hill Road, Exeter, Rhode Island, 02822, United States
Arcadia Backpack Area
$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
No fee structure information is provided in the source materials.
About this campground
Deep within Rhode Island's Arcadia Management Area lies a hidden gem for adventurous souls seeking authentic wilderness experiences. The Arcadia Backpack Camping Area offers primitive camping at its finest, where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and distant bird calls. This secluded site serves as your gateway to miles of interconnected trails, providing the perfect basecamp for those who prefer to earn their rest through exploration.
Arcadia Backpack Area is a primitive camping site specifically designed for tent campers. It does not support RVs or other types of camping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceWhile the ancient trees keep their secrets close, this pristine wilderness stands as a testament to Rhode Island's commitment to preserving natural spaces for future generations to explore and cherish.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of New England's dramatic seasons at Arcadia. Spring arrives with gentle warmth and wildflower blooms along the trails, while autumn transforms the forest canopy into a breathtaking tapestry of gold and crimson. Summer brings that characteristic Rhode Island humidity, creating misty mornings perfect for early hikes before the afternoon heat settles in. Winter transforms this woodland retreat into a serene wonderland, where light snowfall blankets the forest floor and freezing temperatures create crystalline mornings that reward the hardy camper with pristine solitude.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of this woodland sanctuary provides just enough topographical interest to keep your hikes engaging without overwhelming the casual backpacker.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a cathedral of towering trees, your campsite becomes a natural amphitheater where forest life unfolds around you. Gather around established firepits as darkness falls, sharing stories of the day's adventures. A thoughtfully placed pavilion with picnic tables offers respite during unexpected rain showers, while maintaining the site's commitment to minimal infrastructure. The surrounding trail network beckons explorers to discover hidden streams, rocky outcroppings, and peaceful groves. Basic drop toilets ensure comfort without compromising the authentic backcountry experience.
Geological RegionTucked into the southwestern corner of Rhode Island near the Connecticut border, the Arcadia Management Area in Exeter represents one of New England's best-kept secrets. This expansive forest preserve showcases the region's characteristic mixed hardwood ecosystem, where glacial history has sculpted a landscape of gentle hills, hidden ponds, and boulder-strewn valleys that tell the story of ice ages past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not mention specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe site is described as a primitive backcountry camping spot suitable for tents, but no specific dimensions or size details are provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at the sites is not explicitly discussed; however, as a primitive campsite, it is likely designed with minimal development in a natural setting.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe campsite is recommended for backpackers looking for primitive camping and immediate access to multi-use trails.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite numbers or details provided.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group sites are mentioned in the authoritative source.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is a walk-up site, situated approximately 1/3 mile from the parking location behind gated access.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Arcadia Backpack Area provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including direct access to multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Other activities include fishing, wildlife viewing, and possibly boating within 10 miles.
Hiking
The site offers access to multi-use trails that range from easy to difficult levels. These trails are suitable for hiking, walking, and nature exploration.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available within the facility and in nearby rivers and streams. Specific details about fish species or the quality of fishing are not provided.Biking
Biking is permitted within the multi-use trail system. The terrain and skill levels required are not specifically mentioned.Boating
Boating and kayaking are available within 10 miles of the campground. Details about the type of boats allowed or docking facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The area is suitable for wildlife viewing, but specific species or recommended observation points are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing is available within the facility, offering winter recreation options.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are provided within a 10-mile radius, and river canoeing opportunities are listed as activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with firepit rings provided within the campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife viewing is available; however, no specific hazards are mentioned.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Within 10 miles, there are conservation officers' headquarters and a ranger station.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information regarding trash and recycling facilities is available in the authoritative source or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresWithin the facility, there is river/stream fishing and other water-based activities.
Common complaintsNo user complaints or reviews found in the provided data.
HostNo information available regarding campground hosts.
Campground Map
Escoheag Hill Road, Exeter, Rhode Island, 02822, United States
Driving directionsFrom Rte 95 South: Take exit 14A to merge onto RI-102S, Take a Right onto Rte 165 E to Escoheag Hill Road. Parking available along Escoheag Hill Road next to access gate.
The campsite is within the Arcadia Management Area trail system, approximately 1/3 mile behind a gated access. Parking is available along Escoheag Hill Road, but there is no official parking lot. The gate must not be blocked when parking.Nearby supplies
Within 10 miles, there are convenience stores, dining options, and retail snack shops.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Arcadia Backpack Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
No user reviews are provided in the source materials.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
No specific positive highlights are available due to the absence of user reviews.
Common Concerns
No common complaints are available due to the absence of user reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
No user-provided tips or recommendations are available in the source materials.
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal review trends are not available due to the absence of user reviews.
Camper Quotes
No user quotes are available as no user reviews have been included in the source materials.
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews specific to particular campsites are included in the source materials.
Accessibility Features
No accessibility-related user reviews are available in the source materials.
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews addressing pet policies or pet-friendly features are provided.
Last updated August 10, 2025