father and son fishing at Snake Den State Park

While it may not have the most inviting of names, Snake Den State Park is actually a wonderful public recreational space to visit.

Yes there are snakes there, as well as plenty of other wildlife species. But this Rhode Island state park also comprises over 1000 breathtaking acres of forests, wetlands, and streams which creates a wonderful landscape in which to enjoy a range of outdoor activities.

This includes the likes of hiking, fishing, boating, birdwatching, photography and picnicking, which are practiced by locals and tourists alike.

Situated just a 20 minute drive from Providence, the park is the perfect spot to escape the pressures of the working week.

Unfortunately there is no overnight camping available onsite, but if you are looking for a place which oozes tranquility and serenity, there are few better destinations to head to.

Activities

If you go to Snake Den State Park you will be able to engage in a good selection of leisurely outdoor activities whilst you are there.

Presented below is a summary of some of the main recreational pursuits you can do during your visit.

Boating at Snake Den State Park

If you are into boating, you will love the opportunities to get on the water the park gives you.

Its 75-acre pond is surrounded by scenic views of the forest and wetlands. This provides a lovely setting for kayaking, canoeing, rowboating and paddleboarding.

To help you get on the water, the park has a boat launch area. Guests can also bring their own motorized boats to the pond, although there are some restrictions on the size and speed of boats allowed.

Fishing at Snake Den State Park

Fishing is another popular activity that many people come to Snake Den State Park to enjoy.

The pond is stocked with a variety of different species of fish, including bass, pickerel, and perch that regularly bite.

Visitors can choose to cast a line from the shore or from a boat. Additionally, the park has several fishing piers and platforms that are ADA accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy a day of fishing.

However, before you can start to fish, the park requires all anglers to have a valid Rhode Island license. For those who don’t have one, this can be purchased online or at the park office.

Hiking at Snake Den State Park

Snake Den State Park is a hiker’s paradise, with over 10 miles of hiking trails that wind through the forest and wetlands.

Depending on your level of fitness, you might find some of the trails a bit of a challenge. However, there should be at least a trail or two that are manageable for most people.

Most people who hike in the park tackle the Snake Den Trail, which is a moderate 2.5-mile loop that takes hikers through the heart of its picturesque landscape. It showcases splendid views of the pond, streams, and wetlands.

Here is a short video of someone hiking at Snake Den State Park:

Photography at Snake Den State Park

Snake Den State Park is a wonderful place for photography enthusiasts. The park offers a range of opportunities to capture the beauty of nature and wildlife, from its picturesque landscapes to its diverse array of plants and animals.

One of the most popular photography spots in the park is the pond, which provides a stunning backdrop for photographs. The pond is surrounded by trees and provides reflections of the sky, making it an excellent location for capturing the sunrise or sunset.

Throughout the hiking trails you will also find plenty of opportunities to photograph the several species of flora and fauna you see on it. You will also be able to snap a number of interesting buildings and other structures as well.

Picnicking at Snake Den State Park

Snake Den State Park has several picnic areas that are perfect for a family outing or a relaxing day with friends.

The park’s picnic areas are equipped with grills, tables, and trash receptacles, making it easy for visitors to enjoy a picnic lunch or dinner.

These areas are located near the pond, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding forest.

Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s playground, which is located near the picnic areas and is a great spot for kids to burn off some energy.

Pets

Pets are most welcome at Snake Den State Park, however they must be restrained on a leash and kept under control for the entire duration of their visit. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of pets, other visitors, and wildlife in the park.

In addition, dog owners are also required to clean up after their pets and dispose of waste in designated trash cans.
The park’s trails are a great place to take a dog for a walk, however there are certain areas and buildings within it where dogs are not permitted.

For a comprehensive explanation of the park’s pet policy, it is worth contacting the main office.

Camping

Unfortunately there are no camping options available at the park. However, within half an hour’s driving distance of it there are several campgrounds you can stay at which offer different experiences depending on your budget and preferences.

These include the Burlingame, East Beach, Fisherman’s Memorial and George Washington. Collectively, these campgrounds offer a range of accommodations that include primitive tent campsites and RV and trailer sites with hookups for electricity and water. In addition, cabins and yurts are also available.

Depending on which one you stay at, amenities and facilities at these campgrounds might include a swimming pool, hot showers, flush toilets, dump station, camp store and children’s playground.

If you would prefer to stay somewhere a bit more upscale, there are several hotels, motels and holiday accommodations available in the city of Providence.

Park Location

Snake Den State Park
2321 Hartford Ave
Johnston, RI 02919
Phone: 401.222.2632

Park Website

Map