7 Snake Infested State Parks In Rhode Island

With their scale-covered bodies and occasional venomous species, snakes have earned a scary reputation, but despite that, they can still be fun to observe from afar, especially in the state parks of Rhode Island, where there are no native venomous snakes. According to the state’s Department of Environmental Management, the venomous timber rattlesnake used to exist in Rhode Island but disappeared over 50 years ago. While exploring Rhode Island's most snake infested state parks, travelers are most likely to spot common snake species such as garter snakes and ringneck snakes. The general landscape in Rhode Island lends itself well to these species, which prefer to hang out in wetlands and rocky shorelines.

Snake Den State Park

With a name like Snake Den State Park, first-time visitors might be expecting to see some sort of massive colony of snakes here. And while plenty of snakes take up residence in the park, the name actually comes from “a canyon-like stone fissure” located on the grounds. Still, Snake Den State Park has plenty of nature trails, granite cliffs, and wetlands where visitors can find water snakes, black racer snakes, milk snakes, ringneck snakes, garter snakes, and ribbon snakes.

The park also has a working farm for park-goers to explore. In the fall, the modest-sized park becomes a hot spot for leaf chasers looking to enjoy the autumnal colors.

Burlingame State Park

Anyone looking for a little family-friendly outdoor recreation will enjoy an afternoon at Burlingame State Park in Charlestown, Rhode Island. Visitors can enjoy a picnic next to Watchaug Pond, where fireplaces, picnic tables, a pavilion, and a sandy beach are all available to use. For hiking enthusiasts, a stroll along the John Vincent Gormley Trail is the perfect way to spend a couple of hours. The trail is mostly flat but does have a few moderately difficult rocky areas.

Parts of this trail cross through wetlands where hikers may spot a friendly water snake. Garter snakes, turtles, frogs, and salamanders can also be found here.

Lincoln Woods State Park

Lincoln Woods State Park stands out as Rhode Island’s first-ever state park. Originally founded in 1908, Lincoln Woods has become a staple for local and visiting nature enthusiasts. Here, visitors will have access to a freshwater beach on Olney Pond, scenic overlooks, various multi-use trails, fishing areas, and ice skating spots in the winter months. The park is also teeming with wildlife. As far as snakes go, travelers will find the usual mix of common species here, including garter snakes, water snakes, and milk snakes.

Those particularly interested in finding snakes and other wildlife can sign up for the park's Naturalist Program, which is advertised as a way to learn about everything “ from jellyfish to earthworms” within the park.

Colt State Park

Snake-lovers will find Colt State Park on the shores of Narragansett Bay in the historic town of Bristol, Rhode Island. The shorelines serve as a comfortable habitat for water snakes, while the moist, wet areas in the park are ideal for ribbon snakes. In the dryer areas, garter snakes and black racer snakes can also be spotted.

Narragansett Bay is a recreational hub for activities like paddling and saltwater fishing as well. Hiking enthusiasts may not find the long, rugged trails they are looking for here, but there are a handful of paved paths that make taking a casual, scenic stroll easy for everyone. Afterwards, the nearby Coggeshall Farm Museum is a perfect way to wrap up the day and enjoy interactions with “heritage-breed animals.”

Fort Wetherill State Park

Those looking for truly impressive views of Newport Harbor or the East Passage of Narragansett Bay will find everything they are looking for at Fort Wetherill State Park, which sits atop a 100-foot granite cliff. In addition to good views, visitors may also see garter snakes and other common snakes sunning on the rocks throughout the park.

Scuba diving is a popular activity here as well and gives divers the chance to see even more wildlife underwater. Divers have reported seeing everything from lobsters and blue crabs to tropical fish and squid when the waters are clear.

Goddard Memorial State Park

Goddard Memorial State Park is a metropolitan park which boasts, “a nine-hole golf course, an equestrian show area, 18 miles of bridle trails, 355 picnic tables, 11 game fields, and a performing arts center for weddings, concerts, picnics, and special events.” With so many amenities, it is no surprise that thousands of local and out-of-town visitors make their way to the park each year. The park’s fields and forested areas make great habitats for common garter snakes and milk snakes.

Fishermen's Memorial State Park

A popular camping spot, Fishermen’s Memorial State Park is known for its World War II military history. Visitors can admire old military structures, such as abandoned bunkers and a fire control tower. Beyond its historical appeal, the memorial state park boasts brushland, forest, and wetlands that are home to common garter snakes, water snakes, and brown snakes.

Point Judith Light, a beautiful lighthouse, is located roughly 1.6 miles away and is also worth viewing while visiting the park.

When thinking about exploring state parks in Rhode Island, most people think about activities involving the state’s pristine waters. While swimming, sailing, fishing, and scuba diving are certainly available, looking for snakes is also a great way to spend some time in the parks. These snake-infested state parks in Rhode Island will take visitors down rocky shorelines and through heavily wooded areas, looking for friendly reptiles.