Bowdish Lake Camping Area

- 40 Safari Trail, Chepachet, RI 02814

For Rhode Island families and retirees seeking a dedicated, season-long retreat in nature, the Bowdish Lake Camping Area, nestled on the scenic Bowdish Reservoir in Chepachet, offers a unique summertime community. Located deep within the quiet, wooded acres of Glocester, this private facility distinguishes itself by catering almost exclusively to seasonal campers with self-contained RV units. It is designed to be a home-away-from-home throughout the warmer months, running typically from May through Columbus Day.

Bowdish Lake is much more than a transient stop; it cultivates a loyal "summertime community of family and friends." The expansive, heavily wooded sites provide an enhanced sense of privacy and seclusion compared to more crowded parks, allowing Rhode Islanders to truly relax and connect with the natural environment. The campground features a picturesque setting with access to a 300-acre lake and a 30-acre pond, offering ample opportunities for water-based relaxation and recreation. While short-term and tent camping have been largely phased out, the focus remains squarely on creating a tranquil, long-term haven for the seasonal community.

However, prospective seasonal campers should note the highly specific nature of the operation. Bowdish Lake maintains strict rules to ensure the tranquility and safety of its community. The management is transparent about its focus on seasonal, self-contained RV units, and potential long-term guests should be prepared to adhere to all established guidelines, which cover everything from site maintenance and vehicle restrictions to pet policies. As the transition to a seasonal-only model has solidified, the emphasis has shifted entirely to providing a consistent and peaceful environment for its dedicated core of returning campers.

Bowdish Lake Camping Area is strategically located at 40 Safari Trail, Chepachet, RI 02814, USA, deep in the serene woodlands of Glocester, a town famed for its rural character and extensive natural preserves. This location in Northwestern Rhode Island makes it an ideal, easily accessible retreat for residents from Providence, Kent County, and Washington County who are looking to establish a seasonal base camp without a lengthy commute.

The campground sits directly on the shores of Bowdish Reservoir, a beautiful 226-acre body of water. Importantly, the area borders the George Washington Management Area and Pulaski State Park, providing campers with miles of marked hiking trails that extend right from the property. This proximity to state parkland vastly expands the recreational possibilities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the outdoors.

Access to the area is primarily via Route 44 (Putnam Pike), placing the facility on a major, well-maintained state route. While it feels remote and woodsy, a short drive connects campers to the historic village of Chepachet, known for its quaint shops and dining options, ensuring that essential errands or a night out are never far away. The strategic location balances seclusion with convenience, making it a highly practical choice for Rhode Islanders who plan to spend their entire summer season in one place.

The services at Bowdish Lake Camping Area are specifically tailored to meet the needs of seasonal, self-contained RV units and their families, ensuring a comfortable and extended stay from spring through fall. The focus is on providing robust utility services and amenities that support a season-long residency.

Key services provided by the campground include:

• Exclusive Seasonal Camping: Currently accommodating seasonal campers only, with a strict policy against short-term weekend rentals and general tent camping, ensuring a stable, long-term community atmosphere.

• RV Self-Containment Requirement: All accepted units must be self-contained RVs or motorhomes, and the campground has a firm limit on maximum trailer length (not exceeding 35 feet).

• Comprehensive Utility Hookups: All seasonal sites are equipped with water and electric hookups. Some sites also offer sewer connections, and for those that do not, the campground provides three designated dump stations and a "Honey Wagon" pump-out service.

• Metered Electric: Electrical usage is metered on all sites, with a separate deposit and minimum monthly fee, providing a fair system based on actual consumption.

• Internet and Cable TV: Basic and extended basic cable and internet services are available at an additional charge, allowing seasonal guests to stay connected during their extended stay.

• Restroom Facilities: Six bathhouses are spread throughout the property, featuring flush toilets and coin-operated showers for convenience.

• Recreational Equipment Rentals: Canoe rentals are available for enjoying the lake.

• Camp Store: A camp store carries basic camping necessities, souvenirs, ice, and firewood.

Bowdish Lake Camping Area is rich in natural features and planned activities that contribute to its strong sense of community and family fun. The numerous on-site amenities are designed to keep families engaged and entertained throughout their seasonal stay.

The prominent features and highlights include:

• Direct Lake Access: The campground boasts a mile of waterfront, providing access to Bowdish Lake and an adjacent 30-acre pond. Campers can enjoy a freshwater beach and a boat ramp (with a 10 HP motor limit).

• Extensive Recreation Facilities: On-site amenities include a Recreation Hall, a Recreation Pavilion, a tennis court, a basketball court, horseshoe courts, volleyball, ping pong, and a pool table.

• Kid-Friendly Play Areas: Multiple equipped playgrounds are scattered across the grounds, including the "Fort Bowdish" climbing area in the Safari Field, and a petting zoo with farm animals like miniature donkeys and goats.

• Organized Activities and Events: A robust schedule of planned activities runs throughout the summer, including family-friendly events such as Flashlight Tag, Nerf Wars, Outdoor Movies, Ice Cream Socials, Hay Wagon Rides, and supervised swimming.

• Seasonal Contests: The community atmosphere is enhanced by popular events like the Season-Long Fishing Contest and seasonal decoration contests for sites and golf carts (e.g., for Halloween).

• Nature Trails: Access to miles of marked hiking trails that connect to the adjacent state parks, catering to walkers and serious hikers alike.

• Pet Policy for Campers: Registered seasonal campers are generally allowed to have dogs, provided they adhere to specific rules regarding breed restrictions and noise (loud barking is strictly prohibited to maintain the quiet atmosphere).

For all inquiries regarding seasonal site availability, rates, and detailed rules and regulations, all prospective and current campers are advised to contact the campground office directly.

Address: 40 Safari Trail, Chepachet, RI 02814, USA

Phone: (401) 568-8890

Mobile Phone: +1 401-568-8890

Given the campground’s exclusive focus on seasonal camping and the competitive nature of site retention, interested parties should initiate contact well in advance of the desired season to inquire about the application process and any waiting lists for available sites. Direct communication is essential to understand the specific requirements for all seasonal contracts and deposits.

Bowdish Lake Camping Area is exceptionally well-suited for Rhode Island locals who seek a low-stress, high-value seasonal destination for their self-contained RV unit. For families in Rhode Island, the cost and hassle of towing a trailer out of state every few weeks are eliminated by having a reliable, secure summer home base just a short drive away.

The suitability for locals is primarily driven by the Commitment to the Seasonal Community. By focusing exclusively on long-term residents, the campground creates a stable, consistent social environment that allows families to build lasting, multi-year friendships—a true summertime neighborhood. The numerous planned activities, from themed weekends to various sports contests, foster this strong communal bond, turning a simple campsite into an active, social retreat.

Furthermore, the location in Chepachet offers the best of both worlds: Deep Woods Seclusion and Recreation Access. Campers benefit from a tranquil, wooded site with direct access to a lake for swimming, boating, and fishing, all while having the extensive hiking trails of the George Washington Management Area right outside their door. This continuous access to local nature throughout the camping season, combined with the convenience of self-contained, metered RV living, makes Bowdish Lake Camping Area a highly desirable and practical choice for Rhode Islanders looking to maximize their summer outdoor enjoyment without ever leaving the state.

Bowdish Lake Camping Area

40 Safari Trail, Chepachet, RI 02814, USA