Latest News and Updates | Rhode Island State Parks

Press Releases All press releases

West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquito Sample Found in Bristol

Thursday, August 07, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) have confirmed the second detection of West Nile Viru ...

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Bat from Beavertail State Park Tests Positive for Rabies

Tuesday, August 05, 2025

The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is alerting the public that a rabid bat with injuries of unknown origin was found in Beavertail State Park in Jamestown on July 30th at approximately 9 ...

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First West Nile Virus Detection of 2025

Thursday, July 31, 2025

PROVIDENCE, RI – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) have confirmed the first detection of West Nile Virus ...

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Operational Updates

Alerts

Burlingame State Campground: New shower and restroom facilities are being constructed and will impact this camping season.
Roger Wheeler State Beach: A construction project is currently underway to construct a boardwalk and upgrade the bulkhead. As a result, the opening of amenities will be delayed to June 14, and the beach experience may be impacted this season.
Charlestown Breachway: Boaters Advised to Use Caution Traveling through Charlestown Breachway / Find updates on Restructuring Development

Current Operations

State beaches:

The last day to purchase a 2025 season pass is Friday, August 8. The in-person sales office will close for the season starting Saturday, August 9.
East Beach Sand Trail: For information on the East Beach Sand Trail in Charlestown, including pricing, equipment requirements, and other regulations regarding barrier beach permits, is available on the CRMC website.

State parks: All state parks are open and operating under regular operations.

Golf: Goddard Memorial Golf Course
RI Naturalist Program: The Beavertail Aquarium

State campgrounds:

The last night to make a reservation at East Beach is Sunday, August 31. The last night for Charlestown Breachway, George Washington, and Fishermen's Memorial Campgrounds is Thursday, October 30. The final night for Burlingame State Campground is Sunday, October 12. Book your next stay here.

Fishermen’s Memorial, George Washington, and Burlingame State Campgrounds offer a pre-check-in process to help campers “Camp More, Wait Less.” After booking through Reserve America system, you will receive an email to pre-register, which must be completed at least two days before arrival. Campers needing a second car pass can select and pay for it up to one day before their registration.

If you have a specific question/concern, please contact us at DEM.RIparks@dem.ri.gov.

Outdoor Safety Tips

Rhode Island's network of state parks, beaches, and campgrounds welcome close to 9 million visitors each year. Are you planning a visit? Knowing these safety tips will help you have a safe, fun, and relaxing time.

Find a State Park, Beach, or Campground

Looking for a State Park, Beach, or Campground near you? View the list of locations here or click on a location below to find more information on state beaches, parks, and campgrounds in your area.