Tucked along the southern Rhode Island coastline in Washington County, Fishermen’s Memorial State Park spreads across 91 acres of flat, wooded terrain just minutes from the beaches of Narragansett. Named in honor of local fishermen lost at sea, the park carries a quiet sense of place that sets it apart from flashier coastal destinations.

The park is best known for its well-maintained campground, which serves as a popular base camp for exploring the South County shoreline. With sites nestled among mature trees, campers get shade and privacy while staying close to some of Rhode Island’s best beaches — Scarborough State Beach and Roger Wheeler State Beach are both a short drive away. The campground fills quickly during summer weekends, so reservations are essential from June through August.

Beyond camping, the park offers paved walking and biking paths that wind through open fields and wooded groves. Fishing is a natural draw here, and the park’s proximity to Point Judith and Galilee — one of New England’s busiest commercial fishing ports — means fresh seafood is never far away. Picnic areas with grills make for easy afternoon cookouts after a morning at the beach.

The best time to visit is late June through mid-September, when warm weather opens up the full range of coastal activities. Shoulder season visits in May or early October bring cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, ideal for cycling and quiet walks.

Expect a laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere with a distinctly Rhode Island character — unhurried, salt-aired, and genuinely welcoming.

Explore Nearby

• Point Judith Light — Lighthouse in Rhode Island
• Whale Rock Light — Lighthouse in Rhode Island
• Swamp Meadow Bridge — Covered Bridge in South Carolina
• Gold Mine Bridge — Covered Bridge in Connecticut
• Connecticut State Route 169 — Scenic Byway in Connecticut