PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announces that it will begin taking reservations for picnic areas, covered shelters, and recreational fields at Rhode Island state parks for the 2020 season beginning on Thursday, January 2.
Reservations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and can be made by phone or in-person at the specific state park.
Advance payment for reservations is required within 10 business days; upon the receipt of payment (cash, check, or money order accepted), a permit for the site will be issued. Reservations not paid within 10 business days will be cancelled. The cost for single picnic sites with one table and one fireplace is $5/day; covered shelters differ from park to park and range from $75/day to $100/day depending on the number of picnic tables and fireplaces included with the shelter. Rental costs for recreational fields vary depending on the size and location of the field.
For reservations, call or visit the following RI state parks:
Burlingame State Park Picnic Area Route 1, Charlestown 401-322-8910 1 picnic pavilion with 6 tables
Colt State Park Route 114, Bristol 401-253-7482 42 single picnic sites, 3 covered shelters, 1 ceremonial chapel area Note: the location of some sites at Colt will change in 2020; patrons are advised to check the desired location in person before making a reservation.
Goddard Memorial State Park 1095 Ives Road, Warwick 401-884-2010 156 single picnic sites, 4 covered shelters, 11 game fields
Lincoln Woods State Park 2 Manchester Print Works Road, Lincoln 401-723-7892 92 single picnic sites, 3 covered shelters
Pulaski State Park & Recreation Area 151 Pulaski Road, Chepachet Reserve online at https://rhodeislandstateparks.reserveamerica.com/ 2 covered shelters
In addition to the areas that can be reserved, there are many sites that are available to park goers on a first-come, first-served basis and do not have to be rented. Please email DEM.RIparks@dem.ri.gov for questions on these locations or contact the park directly. For more information on individual parks visit http://www.riparks.com.
As part of a larger network of recreational opportunities in the state, state parks play an important role in supporting public health, attracting tourism, providing affordable staycation options for Rhode Island families, and promoting a healthier environment. Rhode Island's natural and public assets – including 1,000 campsites, 8,200 acres of parkland, 400 miles of hiking and biking trails, 200 fishing spots, 25 parks and nature preserves, and eight saltwater beaches – are magnets, attracting more than 9 million Rhode Islanders and tourists a year. They're also an engine that add an estimated $315 million to the economy, generating nearly $40 million in state and local taxes and supporting nearly 4,000 jobs a year.
Everyone who enjoys parks, beaches, and public outdoor spaces has a responsibility to keep them clean. Consistent with this ethic, DEM in 2020 will continue the carry-in/carry-out trash policy that has been in effect since 1992. DEM's carry-in/carry-out policy encourages visitors to take personal responsibility, take their trash with them, and leave no trace behind. Along with the National Park Service and most state park systems across the country, DEM believes this is a best practice that promotes conservation, fosters a sense of stewardship, and leads to better visitor experiences.
For more information about Rhode Island state parks and other DEM divisions and programs, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.