Rhode Island State Parks

Tucked between the Sakonnet River and Rhode Island Sound, Sachuest Point attracts some 65,000 visitors per year. The 242-acre site offers three miles of nature trails, viewing platforms, and plenty of saltwater fishing holes. Salt marsh sifts into beach habitat, a haven for peregrine falcons, snowy owls, and harriers. You can still see the remains of the military strongholds situated here during the 20th century, another intriguing point of interest at the park.

The jewel in the crown of the state's park system, Colt fronts onto the mesmerizing Narragansett Bay. At the park, 464 sprawling acres of flowering plants, manicured lawns, and fruit orchards await. Enjoy a family picnic in the dappled sunshine at picnic groves. There are also ten playfields and a historical museum to intrigue you, plus a popular open-air chapel by the sea.

Rides, concerts, and swimming pools are among the attractions of his historic state park, which recently reopened, making it Rhode Island's newest coastal state park. This 120 acres of land has been drawing families with its nature trails, restaurants, and observation tower since 1850.

There's so much for your family to see and do at Lincoln Woods. Situated in the Blackstone Valley, the park boasts a freshwater beach and trout fishing. Venture into the woods on horseback with Sunset Stables, or cycle and hike along the trails. After your adventures, enjoy a picnic at the park's designated grounds.

Walk the Mohegan Bluffs near New Shoreham, which many argue have the most beautiful views on the island. These blustery hiking trails afford picturesque vistas of dramatic cliffs lapped by sapphire sea off which the sunlight gleams on brighter days. Look out for surprising geological formations as you hike. The cliffs take their name from a Native American battle that took place here in the 16th century. Make your way down 141 steps to the sand, where you can swim and surf.

Situated in Jamestown, Rhode Island, Beavertail is blessed with some of the most transcendent coastal scenery in New England. Hike its craggy coastline to look out on the glimmering water, or take part in some saltwater fishing. The naturalist program sees local experts hike to Beavertail's tidepools to offer fascinating insights into local biology and geology, attracting hundreds of visitors to these sparkling shores.

This Edenic oasis stretches for 1,000 acres ribboned with walking trails among glorious old trees, flowers, and even an operational farm. Come in the fall when the foliage turns to flame.

One of the state's most popular beaches, Misquamicut is a summertime haven. More than half a mile of beach is fronted by pavilions and bathing facilities. Lifeguards look over the beach, where volleyball and other beach sports accompany the plethora of watersports that attract visitors from far and wide.

At the mouth of Newport Harbor, this state park unfolds spectacular panoramas of Narragansett Bay. There's so much to thrill sports fans, including fishing, boating, soccer, and rugby. Why not charter a sailboat for the day, and take part in a regatta? Windsurfing is also huge here, and rental and instruction are offered by experts.

Fort Wetherill perches atop a 100-foot high ridge of cliffs, looking over at Fort Adams. It affords unparalleled views of Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay, making it the ideal lookout point for tall ship races and sailing events. Lofty as this perch may be, the diving club based here is second to none, and scuba diving attracts visitors from across the state. There are also boat ramps and hiking trails winding through the 61 acres of land.