Camper Van Rental Rhode Island

Exploring Rhode Island by camper van or Class B RV is an adventure that packs coastal beauty, historic charm, and island escapes into America's smallest state. Nicknamed the Ocean State, Rhode Island may be compact, but it delivers massive variety and a whole lot of ocean views. You can gawk at Newport's gilded mansions, stroll along Block Island's windswept beaches, and taste your way through Providence's creative food scene. Renting a camper van in Rhode Island gives you the freedom to explore all of this and more at your own pace, with everything you need on board for spontaneous beach days and waterfront camping.

1. Why Rent a Travel Van in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island's 400 miles of coastline and compact size make it perfect for getting the most out of a travel van rental without long driving days. With plenty of beach and inland campsites, it’s easy to have an amazing time in a camper. A camper van rental gives you the flexibility to have a sunrise coffee at Narragansett Beach, explore Newport's Cliff Walk by afternoon, and camp under the stars near the ocean by evening. You'll skip hotel check-ins and have everything with you, ready for kayaking, beach hopping, or touring historic lighthouses.

2. What Are the Best Destinations in Rhode Island to Visit on a Camper Van Trip?

While it may be small, there are a bunch of travel-worthy destinations to check out in Rhode Island, including:

• Block Island: With dramatic bluffs, pristine beaches, and car-free roads, Block Island tops the list of where to visit during your camper van trip.

• Newport: New England coastline at its finest. Newport offers mansion tours, waterfront dining, and the famous Cliff Walk, which stretches 3.5 miles along the shoreline.

• Narragansett: For surfers and beach lovers Narragansett offers consistent waves and laid-back vibes.

• Providence: The capital city of Rhode Island, Providence surprises road trippers with James Beard-nominated restaurants, WaterFire events, and Federal Hill's Italian markets all within walking distance of RV-friendly parking areas.

3. Where Can I Camp in Rhode Island with a Conversion Van?

Rhode Island has ten state-run campgrounds and many other private campgrounds with stunning views. These are some top choices:

• Fishermen's Memorial State Park: Located in Narragansett, this park provides oceanfront sites with full hookups just steps from the beach and coastal bike paths.

• Burlingame State Park: Enjoy wooded campsites near Watchaug Pond, with swimming, fishing, and trails that wind through 3,100 acres of protected land.

• Newport RV Park: Based in Portsmouth, this RV park and campsite sits close to Newport's attractions while providing a quieter base camp with pond access and shaded sites.

Each campground welcomes conversion van rentals and small RVs, though it’s always a good idea to check specific site dimensions with the park to ensure your rig fits comfortably.

4. What's the Best Time for a Camping Van Trip in Rhode Island?

Late spring through early fall offers the warmest weather, providing comfortable temperatures for beach days and outdoor exploration. Summer months from June to August are peak beach season with lively waterfront events and busy campgrounds, so it’s a good idea to book your camper van rental and campsites early.

September and October deliver fewer crowds, lower rates, and stunning fall colors along coastal drives, making shoulder season ideal for budget-conscious travelers. Winter camping is possible if you get a well-insulated Sprinter camper van with a heater, but be prepared for cold temperatures—though it’s nice for visiting Providence's holiday markets!

5. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Camper Van in Rhode Island?

Budget-friendly options typically range from $100 to $175 per night for basic conversion vans with sleeping quarters, small kitchens, and essential camping gear. Mid-range models with upgraded amenities, solar power, and additional sleeping space generally fall between $175 and $275 nightly, depending on the season and host.

Luxury Sprinter camper vans with premium interiors, full bathrooms, and high-end finishes can run $400 or more per night, especially during peak summer months. Always confirm mileage limits, cleaning fees, and insurance options directly with your host, as each rental owner sets their own policies and pricing structures.

Related blog post: How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Conversion Van?

6. What Are the Most Scenic Routes for a Rhode Island Class B RV Road Trip?

While there are many beautiful roads going through Rhode Island, our most recommended is Route 1. Route 1 (also known as Post Road) from Narragansett to Watch Hill is 19.35 miles of coastal views, idyllic farmland, and historic sites.

7. Where Can I Rent a Camper Van in Rhode Island?

Providence, Warwick, and Newport areas serve as primary pickup locations for most Rhode Island rentals, with hosts offering everything from compact sleeper vans to spacious luxury models. altCamp connects you with local rental hosts who offer budget-friendly conversions and premium Sprinter builds equipped for extended trips. Some hosts offer delivery services to your preferred starting point, saving you the drive to a central location. Reach out to individual hosts to discuss your specific needs, preferred amenities, and any questions about their small RV options before booking.

If you’re considering a longer road trip headed out of state or flying into a larger airport, you may also consider looking at Boston, MA for a wider range of rental options.

8. Where Can I Find RV Dump Stations in Rhode Island?

You’ll find a handful of dump stations throughout Rhode Island. Many of the paid campgrounds or RV parks have dump stations that campers can use for free. Some others are standalone for a fee and there are even a few that are free (though you should always confirm ahead of time if you can). These are a few options:

• Fishermen's Memorial State Park in Narragansett offers dump station access for a small fee, even if you're not camping there overnight (no charge if you are camping).

• Warwick City RV Dump is a free dump station at the sewer authority, though you do have to sign in and it’s only open specific hours.

• Several private campgrounds like Oak Embers in West Greenwich and Wawaloam in West Kingston allow non-guests to use their dump stations for a nominal charge. Check station hours before arriving, as many close during off-season months or operate on limited schedules outside peak summer weeks.

9. Is Boondocking Allowed in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island's small size and dense population make free camping challenging, with most public lands prohibiting overnight parking outside designated campgrounds. Walmart and some shopping centers allow overnight stays, but policies vary by location and you should always ask permission from management before settling in. State beaches and parks strictly enforce no-overnight-parking rules, with rangers patrolling regularly during summer months. Your best bet for affordable camping involves state park campgrounds or private RV parks, where nightly rates remain reasonable and you'll have access to hookups, bathrooms, and dump stations for your travel van rental.

10. What's Included in a Typical Rhode Island Sleeper Van Rental?

Most converted vans provide sleeping accommodations for two to four people, basic kitchen equipment including a stove and refrigerator, and essential camping gear like folding chairs and an outdoor table. Many small RV rentals come with bedding, towels, and cookware, though some hosts charge extra or ask renters to bring their own linens. Solar panels, outdoor showers, bike racks, and awnings appear on upgraded models, while luxury options might include full bathrooms, heating systems, and premium sound systems. Always review the specific amenities list with your host before booking, and ask about add-ons like beach equipment, kayaks, or portable grills that might enhance your adventure.

Rhode Island proves that big adventures come in small packages, with every mile of coastline offering new discoveries for camper van travelers. The Ocean State rewards spontaneous explorers who can pivot from beach lounging to mansion tours to lobster shacks without rigid reservations.

Also explore other New England rental options in: Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, Vermont.