Burlingame State Park Picnic Area

About

Burlingame State Park Picnic Area is a scenic 31-acre day-use recreation area situated on the shores of Watchaug Pond, one of the largest freshwater ponds in Rhode Island. Located in Charlestown within South County, the area provides a peaceful setting for picnicking, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. The picnic area features a wooded grove with approximately 20 first-come-first-served picnic tables and fireplaces scattered throughout. A sandy shoreline offers a small designated swimming area, though no lifeguards are on duty. The highlight of the facility is a large covered log cabin-style shelter pavilion that can accommodate up to 50 people and is available for rental. There are four self-composting toilets on site, including one that is ADA accessible. This is strictly a day-use facility with no overnight camping permitted. The adjacent boat launch provides access to Watchaug Pond for fishing and boating, though personal watercraft are prohibited. The nearby Kimball Sanctuary and the 8-mile John Vincent Gormley Trail offer additional opportunities for hiking and nature exploration. For overnight camping, visitors should look to the separate Burlingame State Campground located a short drive away.

Directions

The entrance to Burlingame State Park Picnic Area is on the right approximately 0.6 miles off Prosser Trail, which you access from an exit off US Route 1 South in Charlestown, RI.