Fort Wetherill State Park
Fort Wetherill State Park, situated upon 100 foot high granite cliffs across the water from Fort Adams State Park, is a former coastal defense battery and training camp.
Known for its spectacular view of Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay, Fort Wetherill has been a popular sight for viewing the numerous Tall Ship Events and America’s Cup Races. The area is also a major attraction for scuba diving, with Diving Clubs from New York State, Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island using the facilities at the boat ramp year round. Additionally, the park offers family and group picnicking, boating, fishing, hiking and exploring on the park’s 61.5 acres of property.
Experiences
- Sightseeing, Scenic Overlooks
- Birding
- Saltwater Fishing
- Walking, Hiking, and Running
- Picnicking
- Photography
- Mountain Biking
- Scuba Diving*
Amenities
- Pet-Friendly
- Restroom Facilities (May 1 to October 31)
Fort Wetherill State Park History (1972)
On the Island of Conanicut (Jamestown), situated upon 100-foot-high granite cliffs across the water from Fort Adams State Park, Fort Wetherill State Park is a former coastal defense battery and training camp. Comprised of 61.5 acres, its history as a military site dates back to the American Revolution. As a prominent overlook to the East or Middle passage of Narragansett Bay, it has been a favorite site for viewing Tall Ship events and America’s Cup races.
Read more
Reserving Space
Scheduling a School Visit? Planning a field trip or gathering?
- All planned large outings, picnics, group activities, weddings, and scuba groups must contact the office at Goddard State Park for scheduling arrangements. All Scuba Groups must provide a certificate of insurance.
- Reservations and rental fees are required to utilize 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 or contact RI State Park Headquarters at 401-667-6200 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.
