Rhode Island State Parks

Special Event Policy & Process

We want you to have the best time possible at your triathlon, fishing tournament, wedding, family reunion, photography workshop, group fitness class, corporate function, or any other type of large gathering or commercial event. From open air pavilions and picnic shelters to wedding venues and historic facilities, we can help you find a location just right for your gathering.

Special Use Permits are required for these types of events and activities so that State Parks staff can best serve your needs while balancing the needs of other park visitors and the capacity of each park and facility.

Need help getting started?

If are not sure what facility would be appropriate for your event or function or would like general information, please contact us at dem.riparks@dem.ri.gov.

Do you have a location in mind?

If you already have a specific park, beach, or campground in mind, we recommend you contact the regional office for that location to confirm if a Special Use Permit will be required, if your date is available, and that the event or function you would like to host is allowed on that property.

Submitting a request

Once you have determined a location and confirmed with the Regional Manager that the date is available, please fill out a Special Use Permit Request Form.

Please keep in mind:

Plan ahead! Special Use Permit applications need to be submitted at least 30 days in advance and can require much more notice for larger activities that will have a significant impact on the park so please start early.
Submission of this application DOES NOT guarantee that your event will be permitted.
You may be required to obtain liability license insurance. We will not permit an event unless this insurance is received no later than two (2) weeks prior to your event. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Along with insurance, your event may be assessed costs for staff, police officers, site and facility fees, OR require a license agreement through the State Properties Committee.
Applications must be received 30 DAYS IN ADVANCE OF EVENT.

Examples of Previous Events

A small child proudly shows off his first freshwater fish catch

Let's Go Fishing Event Lincoln Woods State Park

A pack of collegiate cross country runners race through the bridle trails

College Cross Country Race Goddard Memorial State Park

Park visitors check out an educational display and giant shoe shaped vehicle set up by LL Bean

Outdoor Education Display Fort Adams State Park

Sailboats navigate around each other with the Goddard Memorial beach pavilion in the background

Sailboat Regatta Goddard Memorial State Park

Picnic Site Rentals

picnic site overlooking Olney Pond at Lincoln Woods State Park

Picnic sites are a great home base for a small get together or family gathering. Designated picnic areas within state parks are available on a first-come, first-served basis; however, some facilities can be reserved. Please contact the regional park office directly if you would like to reserve a picnic site.

Be A Part Of The Solution, Not The Pollution

Everyone who enjoys parks, beaches, and public outdoor spaces has a responsibility to keep them clean. Consistent with this ethic, DEM continues to encourange visitors adhere to the carry-in/carry-out trash policy that has been in effect since 1992. Show your love for our natural spaces by doing your part to keep them clean. Carry out what you carry in!

Learn more

COVID-19 UPDATE:

Please note: any proposed event must stay within social gathering limits and abide by any other restrictions associated with the COVID-19 public health emergency, and approval of your event is at the discretion of park management. Please call the State Park you are interested in for more information before submitting a Special Use Permit request.

More COVID-19 Updates

Food Trucks in State Parks & Campgrounds

Hire a food truck: Park patrons who wish to hire a food truck for a special event must select a food truck from our list of licensed food truck vendors or ask their desired food truck to register as an approved food truck. The organizer of any event requesting a food truck should first contact the regional park management office where they are hoping to host the event. Learn more

Register your food truck: The RI State Park Food Truck program enables food trucks to rent daily spaces in a variety of state parks. If you are a food truck interested in joining the program, please click the link below for more information or contact Cynthia.elder@dem.ri.gov.