Camp Site Teddy Roosevelt, Hopkinton, RI

Introduction / Overview

For local Rhode Island youth organizations and groups seeking an authentic, high-quality, and increasingly modern rustic camping experience, the Yawgoog Scout Reservation stands out as an irreplaceable local treasure. Nestled in the sprawling, beautiful wilderness of Rockville, 'Campsite Teddy Roosevelt' is one of the distinct and highly-regarded campsites located within Yawgoog's Sandy Beach Camp area. While the reservation is historically known for its intensive eight-week summer camp program, Campsite Teddy Roosevelt is a key asset for the Narragansett Council during the off-season, offering weekend camping opportunities from September through mid-April.

Teddy Roosevelt is named in honor of the famous American president and conservationist, perfectly embodying the spirit of outdoor adventure and self-reliance that defines the Yawgoog experience. What makes this specific site particularly notable for local groups planning their outings is the clear commitment to maintenance and upgrades, as highlighted by recent user feedback. The dedication to improving the physical infrastructure, like clearing trees for better use and installing new tent platforms with Trex flooring, ensures that the traditional, rugged feel of the site is balanced with enhanced comfort and cleanliness for those utilizing it. It remains a destination for traditional tent camping, but one that benefits from continuous investment to meet the needs of today's campers.

Location and Accessibility

Campsite Teddy Roosevelt is centrally located within the expansive, 1,800-acre Yawgoog Scout Reservation. The reservation itself is a major landmark in the southwestern part of the state, providing a truly wild escape that is still conveniently accessible for residents of Rhode Island.

The general address for the reservation, which serves as the point of access, is: Rockville, RI 02873, USA. The reservation sits near the border of Connecticut, offering a relatively short drive for groups coming from all corners of Rhode Island, including Providence, Cranston, and Warwick.

Access to Campsite Teddy Roosevelt begins at the reservation's main entrance. All groups must check in with the Campmaster staff upon arrival, typically located at the Bucklin Building. While the exact campsite is deep within the Sandy Beach Camp area, the roads and trails are well-maintained for general access. It is important to note that vehicles are usually restricted to main parking areas like the Ranger Lot or Tim O'Neil Field. Groups are permitted to use one vehicle temporarily to move gear to the campsite, reinforcing the "hike-in" feel of the area and preserving the wilderness environment. The camp is a well-known point of interest on the Narragansett Council maps, which guides visitors through the network of interior roads and trails to their specific location, allowing for an organized and safe arrival at Teddy Roosevelt.

Services Offered

As a site dedicated to traditional group camping within a protected forest environment, Campsite Teddy Roosevelt provides essential services that support a rustic, outdoor living experience, particularly during the off-season.

Dedicated Tent Platforms: A significant service upgrade is the provision of new, clean, and durable tent platforms, often featuring modern, weather-resistant materials like Trex decking, enhancing comfort and protecting gear from ground moisture.
Sanitation Facilities: Campers utilize conveniently located outhouses or portable toilets near the campsite. For more traditional facilities, groups have access to flush toilets located in the central facilities, such as the Bucklin Building.
Potable Water Access: During the primary weekend camping season (spring and fall), water faucets are often available directly at or very near the campsite. In colder winter months, groups are directed to frost-free water pumps located strategically throughout the camp for reliable year-round access to drinking water.
Fire Safety and Wood: The site includes a designated fire pit and picnic tables for cooking and gathering. Slab wood is made available for campers to use, though groups must be aware of the annual fire ban period (typically March 15 – May 15) which restricts open flames during the day.
Central Trading Post: During the weekends, the reservation's Trading Post is open, providing a convenient place for campers to purchase necessary supplies, snacks, and camp souvenirs.
On-Site Support: A Campmaster is on duty during all weekend camping periods to handle check-in, check-out, and provide emergency assistance and support for all camping groups.

Features / Highlights

The defining characteristic of Campsite Teddy Roosevelt is its blend of classic wilderness setting with modern, well-maintained facilities, set against the backdrop of one of New England's most significant outdoor education centers.

Recent Infrastructure Upgrades: The most notable highlight is the commitment to continually improving the physical site. The installation of new, clean tent platforms, as confirmed by user reviews, significantly enhances the camping comfort and site quality.
Sandy Beach Camp Programs: Being part of Sandy Beach Camp means groups are close to the specialized program facilities of that area, including the Lane-Bliven Rifle Range, the David Anderson Archery Range, and the Campcraft/Outdoor Skills Center, which can often be booked by off-season groups.
Yawgoog Pond Access: The site’s location provides relatively quick access to Yawgoog Pond, allowing groups to take advantage of water-based activities like fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and observation (often utilizing rental equipment available through the camp).
Extensive Trail System: The entire reservation is crisscrossed by six main, color-coded hiking trails, offering ample opportunity for groups to explore the vast, forested landscape and surrounding ponds.
Thematic Naming: Named after the former president and noted outdoorsman, the campsite inspires campers to embrace conservation and a robust spirit of adventure.
Pure, Rhode Island Wilderness: The 1,800+ acres of protected woodland offers one of the most immersive wilderness experiences available in the state, making it a true escape from the noise of daily life.

Contact Information

All arrangements, including bookings for Campsite Teddy Roosevelt, are administered by the Narragansett Council, Boy Scouts of America.

Address (Reservation): Rockville, RI 02873, USA

Phone (General Camp Yawgoog/Council): (401) 539-2311

Bookings for the off-season camping period (September to mid-April) are typically made online through the Narragansett Council’s reservation portal. Local Rhode Island groups (in-council) often benefit from preferential booking windows and reduced pricing compared to out-of-council visitors. Groups are encouraged to visit the Yawgoog Scout Reservation website for the latest details on site availability, fees, and reservation procedures.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Campsite Teddy Roosevelt is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it is a vital part of Rhode Island's outdoor and organizational fabric. For local residents involved in youth development, educational groups, or any organization committed to self-reliance and outdoor ethics, this location is ideal. The continuous upgrades, such as the new Trex platforms, demonstrate that the facility is not resting on its history but is actively striving to provide the highest quality rustic camping in the region.

The secure, managed environment, combined with the sheer scale of the 1,800-acre wilderness and its proximity to Yawgoog Pond, offers a comprehensive outdoor curriculum unparalleled by smaller, commercial sites. Local groups benefit from lower "in-council" rates and the cultural connection to this 100-plus-year-old institution. Booking Campsite Teddy Roosevelt for a weekend outing means accessing a tradition of excellence, enjoying updated facilities, and immersing a group in the authentic, rugged beauty of the Rhode Island wilderness—an experience that is both convenient and deeply rewarding for local adventurers.