The Small-Town State Park in Rhode Island Locals Want to Keep to Themselves

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but even those who have lived here their entire lives haven't seen it all. There are still so many wonderful places to discover, including a small-town state park that only those living nearby seem to know about. Located on an undeveloped piece of land along the Narragansett Bay, the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve is relatively small but offers locals and visitors alike access to trails, a beach, and views of the rugged coastline. If you're looking for a peaceful spot for some solitude, an ocean breeze, and a hike, visit this hidden state park in Rhode Island.

Why John H. Chafee Nature Preserve Stands Out in Rhode Island

A quiet state park in Rhode Island, the 230-acre John H. Chafee Nature Preserve is on Rome Point, a small peninsula in North Kingstown along the Narragansett Bay. To locals, this protected parcel of land is known as "Rome Point," although the state park is named after John H. Chafee, who had served as governor of Rhode Island from 1963 to 1969 and was an elected U.S. Senator from 1976 to 1999. During his political career, he championed progressive environmental policies.

Before it became a nature preserve, Rome Point was owned by Narragansett Electric and considered a site for a nuclear power plant. However, due to environmental concerns and opposition, those plans never materialized. In 2001, Narragansett Electric donated the land to the state, and it was named in honor of the late former governor and senator John H. Chafee.

Aside from its history and the origin of its name, the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve stands out among Rhode Island state parks for its coastal location. And unlike other state parks, it's undeveloped, making it an ideal destination for viewing wildlife.

What You’ll Experience at John H. Chafee Nature Preserve

The John H. Chafee Nature Preserve on North Kingstown's Rome Point is a quiet park for contemplative coastal walks, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and photography. You'll often see locals in the area walking their dogs, especially on the Rome Point Trail, a 2.5-mile easy trek through the forest to the coast of Narragansett Bay. This is the main trail leading hikers to epic water views and a beach covered in rocks and shells. (Please note that the park's beach is not a designated swimming beach, and there is no lifeguard on duty.) Seasonally, from October through April, you may be able to see seals basking on rocks in the distance. They tend to haul out onto the rocks during mid or low tide.

Across the water, you'll have views of the Jamestown Verrazano Bridge, a modern concrete bridge and a popular landmark loved by photographers, especially as the sun sets over the Narragansett Bay. Birdwatching, picnicking on the beach, and fishing are other popular activities at this underrated state park in Rhode Island.

Local Tips for Visiting This Small Town State Park

Although this park is relatively quiet, it is most popular on warm, sunny days and weekends. Winter is another popular time for those who wish to see migrating seals out on the rocks in the bay. The park is also family-friendly; kids can enjoy exploring the forest and beachcombing for shells on the rocky beach, and you can bring your dog here for a walk as long as they remain on a leash at all times.

What to Know Before You Go

As an undeveloped park, there are no facilities like restrooms or trash cans available, so plan accordingly and Leave No Trace (take everything with you when you leave, including garbage). While there is a small parking lot for John H. Chafee Nature Preserve along Route 1A at the intersection of Gilbert Stuart Road, spots are limited, especially on clear, sunny days and on weekends. It's best to plan your visit on a weekday in order to get a spot.

Park visitors have also noted fallen trees along the trail and advised wearing waterproof shoes for muddy sections. For more information on the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve at Rome Point, visit the Rhode Island State Parks website.

Another lesser-known park in Rhode Island everyone should visit is Rocky Point State Park. Those of us who grew up in the Ocean State may remember the amusement park that once stood here. With remnants of old rides and historic interpretive signage, it's now a quiet coastal park for a peaceful walk.