You Won't Believe This Town Is In Rhode Island
Rhode Island, the smallest state in the United States by area, is a pretty unique region for both residents and tourists. While it may be small, the state charms with opportunities, from the waterfront capital of Providence to scenic outdoor areas like Beavertail State Park. No matter what you’re looking for, this New England state has it all. That said, within the allure lies a small town that you might not believe is in Rhode Island. Foster, a quaint community of 4,500 people, beckons people from all over with a mix of quirky and unique facets. These range from the town’s vast landscape stretching over 50 square miles to Dyer Woods, to its chilly winter, and Rhode Island’s only nudist campground. Read on to learn more about this unique town and why you won’t be able to believe that it is in the Ocean State.
Rich History of Foster
What seems like a quaint town today actually has a rich past with plenty of interesting aspects. The British first settled the region in the 17th century as farming land. Following this, the land was purchased by English landowner William Vaughacn and his compatriots as part of the West Quanaug land purchase, which included about half of the current town area. Over the next two centuries, settlers poured in, leading to the development of Foster’s first church and multiple religious congregations. Following this, the town was formally incorporated in 1730 as part of Scituate and became an independent township in 1781.
While most of this seems quite run-of-the-mill, Foster’s tale takes a weird turn in the 1920s, when it became a Ku Klux Klan hotspot. That’s right, the famed KKK white supremacist group was highly active here and even held major rallies in the region. The largest took place in 1924, with over 8,000 people in attendance and a US senator speaking. While religious and racial issues did take place for the next few decades, the town today is a mostly welcoming community.
Unique Geography and Climate of Foster
With the KKK gone, Foster’s unique identity now comes from a variety of factors, including its geography. The town is one of the largest in Rhode Island, with a whopping area of 51.9 square miles (134.3 sq. km). Considering its sparse population, open land abounds, and there is plenty of greenery throughout the town. Notably, the area boasts rolling hills and dense forests, perfect for an untamed exploring experience where each turn has something new to offer. Along with the open space, the climate is also intriguing, as the region has an oceanic climate according to the Koppen Climate Classification. This indicates colder winters and consistent rainfall, creating a rustic appeal throughout.
Quirky Outdoor Opportunities
With so much open space, Foster is bound to have outdoor opportunities, but this town takes it a step further. You won’t believe that Foster is home to Rhode Island’s only nudist campground: Dyer Woods. Open from 10 am to 4 pm on most weekdays and 9 am to 5 pm Friday to Sunday, it is a place where people can try social nudity without any judgment. The campground has large grounds, hiking trails, and a waterfront area where nudity is required. So, one can spend their time exploring the land with a unique sense of freedom. It also has rental cabins, a swimming pond, a camp store, and RV sites for a complete outdoor experience, minus the clothing.
That’s not the only offbeat draw. Foster also features Rhode Island’s only public road covered bridge, the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge. It was built in 1994 by an all-volunteer crew with lumber donated from local forests. With its peaceful forested setting and rustic red frame, it feels like a piece of history and is one of the most photogenic road crossings in the state. Adding to the town’s quirky appeal is Jerimoth Hill, the highest point in Rhode Island. At just 812 feet, it is the lowest state high point in the country. For years, it was unusually hard to visit due to a nearby landowner who blocked access with a security system and a stern attitude. Today, the summit is open to the public and features a trail registry and survey markers, but the stories of the “highpoint bully” still linger, giving this modest peak an unexpected twist.
Cultural Charmers In Foster
When not exploring the nudist campground or historic bridge, Foster has plenty of cultural attractions awaiting exploration. Events are some of the most vibrant, and few people believe that this quaint town hosts fests like the Foster Fairground Food Truck Night and the Foster Old Home Days. The former takes place in June and August in the Foster Fairgrounds. It features over 75 food trucks with fantastic music, green meadows, and tons of drinks. Meanwhile, Foster Old Home Days takes place at the end of July, and it includes everything from face painting and antique tractor pulls to musical performances by local performers.
For those who miss out on the events, there is still hope, thanks to the Foster Town House. This rustic landmark was built in 1796, when it was used for town meetings. Surprisingly, the structure still stands over 200 years later and is also where current town meetings are held. Moreover, it has held religious and community gatherings, creating a rich history imbued in each panel.
Tucked into the smallest state in America, Foster feels like a world apart. From nude camping and quirky festivals to its oddly famous high point and charming covered bridge, this town continually defies expectations. What looks like a quiet rural area is actually one of Rhode Island’s most distinctive communities, filled with unexpected stories and unusual sights. Whether you’re exploring its trails during the snowy winters, learning its history, or simply enjoying the peaceful forests, Foster will leave you wondering how such a surprising place exists right in the Ocean State.
