There are some dump stations you use out of pure necessity, and then there are the ones that feel like part of the vacation. Fishermen’s Memorial State Park & Campground in Narragansett, Rhode Island, falls squarely into that second category. Let’s face it, when you’re traveling up the stunning New England coastline, the last thing you want to do is detour inland to some grimy, forgotten pit stop. You want to stay where the action is, where you can smell the salt on the wind. This state park, perched right on Point Judith with views of the Block Island Sound, is the answer to an RVer’s prayer. It’s a place where you can take care of the necessary business of emptying the black and grey water tanks, and then immediately get back to the good stuff, like eating lobster rolls and watching the waves crash.
The location itself is a ten out of ten. Narragansett is a classic coastal town, and from the park, you’re just a stone’s throw from some of its best features. The historic Point Judith Lighthouse, that iconic octagonal beacon that has been guiding ships since 1816, is right there. It’s one of those spots where you just have to pull over and take a few pictures. And if a trip to Block Island is on your agenda, you couldn’t be in a better spot. The ferry terminal in the harbor of Galilee is incredibly close. This is a perfect setup for RVers. You can leave your big rig safely parked at the campground and just walk on the ferry for a fantastic day trip without the hassle and expense of bringing your vehicle with you. For the anglers among us, the surfcasting opportunities here are legendary. And for the foodies, well, you’re in the heart of clam shack country. It’s practically a requirement to sample some “stuffies,” those amazing stuffed quahogs, while you’re in the area.
Now, let's talk about the practicalities of using a state park dump station. These facilities are typically a step up from what you might find elsewhere. They are usually designed to handle a high volume of campers, so you can expect a well-planned layout. Fishermen’s Memorial likely has a double-wide pad, which makes it easier for two rigs to take care of business at once, and clear signage that guides you in and out smoothly. The lanes are often designed for easy back-in or pull-through access. One of the biggest advantages of a state-run facility is that the staff regularly patrol and maintain the area, so it’s almost always clean and in good working order. The main thing to know is that access can sometimes be restricted. During the peak summer season, these dump stations are primarily for registered campers. However, in the shoulder seasons or on quieter weekdays, they will often allow non-campers to come in and use the station for a small day-use fee. The key, as always, is to call the ranger station ahead of time to confirm their policy. My strategy is to plan my visit for a weekday morning, right after the weekend warriors have packed up and cleared out.
The amenities here are geared towards making your stay comfortable and easy. The park offers both 30 and 50-amp electric service and fresh water hookups, which makes all your tank maintenance chores a breeze. Even better, some of the loops in the campground have full hookups, meaning you get your own sewer connection right at your site. For anyone staying more than a couple of nights, this is a game-changer. It means you can completely skip the communal dump station until you’re ready to leave. The presence of convenient dumpsters is another one of those small things that makes a big difference. There’s nothing worse than having to haul a leaky bag of trash in your tow vehicle, looking for a place to get rid of it. And for those of us who travel with our furry co-pilots, the park is pet-friendly. They just require you to have your pet’s rabies certificate handy. After a day spent running on a sandy beach, having access to hot showers in the newly renovated bathhouses is an absolute lifesaver. Just remember to fill up on gas and propane on Route 1 before you head down to Point Judith, as there are no fuel services within the park itself.
When it comes to the cost, if you’re not a registered camper, you’ll need to check with the ranger station for the current day-use dump fee. Given the prime coastal location, I would expect it to be in the $10 to $15 range, which is still a fantastic bargain for the convenience and the beautiful setting. One little insider tip: some state parks have coin-operated timers on their outdoor rinsing faucets, so it’s never a bad idea to have a handful of quarters with you, just in case. And here’s a tip that only a seasoned coastal RVer would know: invest in a good, sturdy, wind-rated sewer hose. The gusts coming off the Atlantic can be surprisingly strong, and I’ve seen more than one cheap, lightweight hose get picked up and sent tumbling across a campsite. It’s not a pretty sight.
So, what’s the final word? Fishermen’s Memorial State Park is one of the most scenic and convenient places you could possibly hope to find for emptying your tanks in New England. With its full hookup options, stunning ocean views, and immediate access to the Block Island ferry and local attractions, it’s a top-tier stop. Just be sure to call ahead to confirm their policy on non-camper dumping, and try to time your visit to avoid the ferry traffic. This isn’t just a place to perform a chore; it’s a place to savor the coastal experience, to enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful sunsets, all with the peace of mind that comes from having clean tanks and a full freshwater supply.
1011 Point Judith Rd, Narragansett, RI 02882
(401) 789-8374
Cost: Price not available
Category: State park
Has Water
riparks.ri.gov/Locations/LocationFishermens.html