Colt State Park

Often referred to as the 'Gem' of the State Parks System, Colt State Park offers an open panorama onto Narragansett Bay, hiking trails, paved bikepaths, and open fields with historic stone walls.

Colt State Park is a true gem within the State Park System. With 464 acres of lawns, four miles of paved pathways, hiking trails, historic stone walls, and one of the state’s most spectacular shorelines, Colt State Park is a favorite among visitors and locals alike. The park lies minutes away from the historic center of Bristol, home of the oldest 4th of July parade in the country.

Shoreline of Colt State Park with grassy fields and paved walking path along the blue waters of Narragansett Bay

The entire western border of the park borders Narragansett Bay, a treat for photographers and artists. Open year round, the park’s bike trails intersect with the East Bay Bike Path, which runs from Bristol to Providence. The park features a boat ramp with 4-foot depth at mean low tide and open fields for kite flying and outdoor games. Winter snows offer a rare seaside opportunity for cross-country skiers and snowshoers.

Accessible fishing pier at Colt State Park

Experiences

Bicycling
Hiking
Stroller-Friendly Paths
Roller Blading
Birding
Saltwater Fishing
Paddling
Walking and Running
Picnicking
Weddings

Amenities

Accessible Fishing Pier
Picnic Pavilions
Picnic Tables
Canoe Kayak Launch
Pet-Friendly
Restroom Facilities

Colt State Park is adjacent to Coggeshall Farm Museum (a living history museum representing farm life in the 1790s), and the Bristol Town Beach and Sports Complex.

Reserving Space

Scheduling a school visit? Planning a field trip or gathering?

You can reserve picnic sites with 3 or 4 picnic tables, many with a view of the ocean. A limited number of larger sites have up to 15 tables, and some picnic sites also include shelters. Colt’s "Chapel by the Sea" offers an intimate location for wedding vows and ceremonies.

Reservations and rental fees are required to use pavilions, shelters, gazebos, designated fields, and picnic tables from the 2nd Saturday in April to October 31, annually.

Outside of these reservation periods, all areas become first come/ first serve with no rental fee required.

Regardless of the time of year, you will need to contact the individual Park Office at 401-253-7482 or contact RI State Park Headquarters or by emailing DEM.RIparks@dem.ri.gov if you intend to use the parks for an organized group gathering or event to determine if the activity requires a Special Use Permit.

History Of Colt State Beach (1968)

Colt State Park’s more than 464 acres of lawns, stone walls, and curving drives along one of the state’s most spectacular shorelines stands in contrast to one of Rhode Island’s charming, compact, historic seaports, the Town of Bristol. The park and the town are linked by history. Samuel P. Colt, who built the showcase farm was a grandson of the famous DeWolf family of Bristol. The DeWolfs developed Bristol into a thriving port in the late 18th and early 19th century.