Burlingame Campground: New Shower and Restroom Facilities Project

Rendering of the bathhouse facilities being built at Burlingame State Campground in Charlestown

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is excited to announce the start of a construction project to build six new shower and restroom facilities at Burlingame State Campground in Charlestown. This project will enhance the camping experience with modern, sustainable, and accessible amenities.

Project Overview

Phase 1 (2023-2025):

  • Replacement of outdated facilities in the Mills Camp, Midpark North, and Fish Camp areas.

Phase 2 (2026-2027):

  • Replacement of facilities in Legiontown, Midpark South, and Main Camp.

The new facilities will include:

  • ADA-compliant and gender-neutral designs to ensure accessibility.
  • Coin-operated indoor and outdoor hot water showers.
  • Energy-efficient lighting and water-conserving plumbing fixtures.
  • Upgraded Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems (OWTS/Septic) for environmental sustainability.

Project Details

  • Design: Caputo & Wick, an East Providence based design firm, prepared the design plans using modern systems and materials to better meet the needs of campers.
  • Construction: Tower Construction Corp. of Cranston will manage the demolition of existing facilities, remove the old systems, and construct the new facilities and OWTS facilities.
  • Funding: The $18 million project is funded primarily through the voter-approved 2021 Beach, Clean Water, and Green Economy Bond and a $2 million federal grant.
  • Timeline: Completion is anticipated by April 2027.

 

Impact on Campers

DEM appreciates the understanding and patience of our campers as we work to enhance the camping experience at our RI state campgrounds. 

  • Reduced Campsite Availability: The number of reservable campsites will decrease during the 2025 and 2026 camping seasons to establish safe work zones.
  • Construction Noise: Campers should expect to hear the common noises of construction equipment and traffic from construction vehicles on weekdays (7:00 AM – 5:00 PM) throughout the 2025/2026 camping seasons. No construction is anticipated on weekends or holidays.
  • Affected Areas: Please refer to the map of impacted shower/restroom facilities and adjacent campsites during the 2025 camping season. Please review this map carefully when making reservations to understand potential impacts.
  • Policies: Note that regular campground policies will be in effect for cancellations, refunds, and reservation changes.
Map showing affected areas of Burlingame State Campground during Phase 1 of a bathhouse construction project planned for the 2025 and 2026 seasons

How to Stay Informed

DEM will provide updates on this page as the project progresses. Campers can contact RI State Parks with any questions or concerns.

Make Your Reservation

Reservations for the 2025 camping season open on Tuesday, January 14, 2025, at 9:00 AM EST. You can book online via Reserve America or by calling 1-877-742-2675. While we have increased call center staffing to assist customers, please be aware that due to demand, longer wait times may occur during this period. 

It is VERY IMPORTANT that you review this map when making your reservation as some of these reservable sites are adjacent to construction zones, and therefore may be more impacted by noises, traffic, and interruptions. 

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve Burlingame State Campground for future seasons.