Haines Memorial State Park

Haines Memorial State Park is a small, picturesque park located in Barrington, near East Providence. This Rhode Island state park covers just over 19 acres and offers a peaceful retreat from the city. It features a beautiful pond, which is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking, as well as walking or jogging around. A popular stop on the East Bay Bike Path, the park also has several shaded areas for picnicking, making it a great spot for a family outing or a quiet afternoon with friends. It also has a boat ramp that enables boaters to get to Bullock Cove, from where they can access the lower Providence River before making their way into the headwaters of Narragansett Bay. Unfortunately, there are no camping facilities available at the park. However there are several campgrounds and other hotel type accommodation in the surrounding area. Notwithstanding, the park is somewhat of a hidden gem, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday city life.

Activities

Haines Memorial State Park is a beautiful and peaceful destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors. Here are some of the main things you can see and do during your time at this Rhode Island state park.

Boating at Haines Memorial State Park

Haines Memorial State Park is a popular destination for boating enthusiasts, and it offers excellent facilities for boaters of all skill levels. The park has a boat ramp, which provides easy access to the waters of Narragansett Bay from where boaters can cruise around and explore the bay’s many islands and coves. If you don’t have a watercraft with you, the park also offers boat rentals in the summer months, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the water without having to bring their own equipment.

Fishing at Haines Memorial State Park

Haines Memorial State Park is an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts. The park is situated on the shores of Narragansett Bay, which is known for its abundant marine life. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of species, including striped bass, bluefish, fluke, and black sea bass. The park also has a fishing pier and a boat ramp which enables anglers to easily access the water. Visitors are required to have a Rhode Island fishing license to fish in the park. If they have one, they can also choose to fish at a small pond that is located within the park.

Hiking at Haines Memorial State Park

Throughout Haines Memorial State Park there are a number of trails and paths that you can traverse. Collectively they showcase the park’s woodlands, fields, and pond, as well as its beautiful flora and fauna, providing guests with a welcome sanctuary from the noise of the city. If you intend to explore the park’s trails it is a good idea to put on appropriate footwear. It is also worth taking a hat or umbrella with you, as well as slapping on plenty of mosquito spray and sunscreen. It is always a good idea to take water and snacks with you as well.

Picnicking at Haines Memorial State Park

For those interested in picnicking whilst at Haines Memorial State Park, there are several scenic spots available to do it at. Throughout the park you will find a number of picnic areas that are equipped with tables, grills, and trash cans. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food with them and can enjoy an al fresco meal while taking in the park’s stunning scenery and the surrounding views of Narragansett Bay. Should you intend to host a larger, private event or function, the park also has a pavilion that can be reserved in advance. If it has not been reserved at the time of your visit, it is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Birding at Haines Memorial State Park

If you are into birding, it is a good idea to bring your binoculars with you when you head to Haines Memorial State Park. The park is home to a variety of bird species, including osprey, herons, and shorebirds. Visitors can enjoy watching them along the trails or from the park’s beach. The park also offers guided bird walks led by experienced naturalists, for those who want to find out more about the different species they are observing. If you would rather spot them on your own, it is worth grabbing a copy of a bird identification guide. The park’s main office will be able to advise you on where to get the most up-to-date version of one.

Pets

Haines Memorial State Park is a pet-friendly destination, and even has a dedicated dog area. So visitors are encouraged to bring their furry friends to the park if they so wish. However, if they do this they should be aware of the conditions that have been set in place about their presence there. This includes dogs being well behaved, restrained on a leash and cleaned up after they have made a mess. It also involves pets not disturbing the wildlife and other guests. For a full rendition of the park’s pet policy you should contact the main office.

Camping

Sadly, there are no camping facilities available to guests at Haines Memorial State Park. However, you won’t have to go too far to find a campground in the surrounding area as there are quite a few dotted about. One of the closest campgrounds is the Wawaloam Campground, which is located in West Kingston. It offers tent and RV camping, as well as cabin rentals which cater to all styles and budgets. If you would prefer not to camp, there are several other accommodations available in the neighboring towns around the park including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.

Park Location

Haines Memorial State Park 3 Haines Park Rd Barrington, RI 02806 Phone: 401.253.7482 Park Website

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video with some drone footage of Haines Memorial State Park and the surrounding area:

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