While Rhode Island may not have the tall, natural waterfalls that other states boast, there are still plenty of smaller and historic waterfalls to enjoy. These quaint falls are perfect places to sit and enjoy the sounds of rushing water surrounded by nature and history. So the next time you’re visiting Rhode Island, pry yourself away from the beaches and head inland to these popular waterfalls.
Waterfalls in Rhode Island
1. Blackstone Dam
2. Slater Mill Dam
3. Pawtucket Falls
4. Woonsocket Falls Dam
5. Ponaganset Falls
6. Stepstone Falls
7. Horseshoe Falls
8. Albion Falls
9. Cascade Brook Falls
10. Round Top Brook
Visiting Waterfalls in Rhode Island
Read on for 10 popular waterfalls that you should visit on your next RV trip to Rhode Island.
1. Blackstone Dam
Blackstone Dam is one of Rhode Island’s waterfalls that has historical significance. During the Industrial Revolution, several dams were built along rivers in Rhode Island to provide power for manufacturers. Blackstone Dam was built along the Blackstone River in North Smithfield, and there’s a park area next to the waterfall where you can enjoy the rushing water. There’s also a boat launch site nearby and a trail that follows the river into Blackstone Gorge.
Things to do near Blackstone Dam: The trail to the Blackstone Gorge will quickly take you out of the city and make you feel like you’re deep in the wilderness. And since the trail is just over a mile long, it’s easy to do after viewing the falls. The state capital of Providence is a short drive away if you’re looking for a larger city to explore.
2. Slater Mill Dam
The next two waterfalls can be seen at once! Slater Mill Dam is another historic Rhode Island waterfall. This dam is part of Slater Mill, which once produced cotton during the Industrial Revolution. Today it’s a beautiful place to relax and have a picnic on the grass as you watch the water flow by. You can also take a tour of the old mill, which is on now a museum.
Things to do near Slater Mill Dam: Located in Pawtucket, there’s lots to do around this waterfall. Visit the Slater Mill and two other historic buildings near the falls. Including the next waterfall! You’re also a short drive to Providence once you’ve finishing exploring this city.
3. Pawtucket Falls
Located just a few hundred feet down the river from the Slater Mill Dam is Pawtucket Falls. This waterfall is the last waterfall on the Blackwater River, and can be seen from above on the bridge, or from the bottom of the falls. Wander through the small city park and enjoy the relaxing view of the water rushing down the falls.
Things to do near Pawtucket Falls: Pawtucket Falls is part of the Blackstone Heritage Corridor, where the American Industrial Revolution Began. Swing by the Slater Mill and the Slater Mill Dam to learn about the local history. Then explore the great shopping, entertainment, and art galleries that Pawtucket has to offer.
4. Woonsocket Falls Dam
The largest waterfall on the Blackstone River is Woonsocket Falls Dam. This historic area had many issues with flooding, and after a devastating flood in the 1950s the Woonsocket Falls Dam was built. Today the dam is part of the Market Square Pavilion and is the gateway to the downtown area. There are even guided tour boats that will take you down the river and explain the historic and industrial past of the town.
Things to do near Woonsocket Falls Dam: After strolling past the falls, explore the rest of Woonsocket and the downtown area. Providence is a half hour drive to the south. And since the city is on the Rhode Island/Massachusetts border, you’re just over 50 miles from Boston.
5. Ponaganset Falls
Located in Clayville, Ponaganset Falls is a beautiful waterfall on the southeast end of the Barden Reservoir. Aside from relaxing by the water and enjoying the view of the trees and fields nearby, the Barden Reservoir area is great for picnicking and taking leisurely strolls along the dirt roads. The waterfall is easily accessible from the road, so you won’t need to take a hike to see it.
Things to do near Ponaganset Falls: You’ll feel like you’re in the wilderness, but you’re not too far from civilization. Providence is 17 miles away, and you can get to Newport and the beach in less than an hour.
6. Stepstone Falls
Stepstone Falls is a beautiful little waterfall in the Arcadia Management Area. With 14,000 acres, this is the largest recreational area in Rhode Island and home to fantastic hiking trails, fishing, biking, and horseback riding opportunities. And a 2.7 mile hike down the trails will take you to the gently cascading falls surrounded by nature.
Things to do near Stepstone Falls: Take some time to explore the rest of the picturesque Arcadia Management Area. If you want to hit some of Rhode Island’s fantastic beaches, you’re only about 20 miles to the coast and 30 miles to Newport.
7. Horseshoe Falls
This small and uniquely shaped waterfall is located in Shannock, Rhode Island. Horseshoe Falls is another man made waterfall along the Pawtucket River in a historic mill town. Stroll along the historic district of Shannock and take a look at the stone dam that creates the horeshoe shaped falls. Looking upstream will also show you the historic homes of the old mill workers.
Things to do near Horseshoe Falls: Take some time to wander through the historic part of Shannock. And if you want to hit the beach, you’re less than 10 miles to the shore.
8. Albion Falls
Blackstone River State Park is home to another small waterfall in Rhode Island, Albion Falls. This park runs along the Blackstone River in Lincoln and provides visitors with bike paths, walking trails, fishing, and a canoe launch. Following the trail through the woods will bring you to the peaceful Albion Dam. While it once powered the local mills, today this gentle waterfall is a serene retreat.
Things to do near Albion Falls: Spend some time meandering through Blackstone River State Park. And since Albion Falls is also on the Blackstone River, you’re right in bewteen several other waterfalls on our list like Woonsocket Falls and Pawtucket Falls.
9. Cascade Brook Falls
Cascade Brook Falls is a lovely little waterfall nestled in the Ken Weber Conservation Area. This 27 acre preserve has a 1 mile trail that takes visitors to the brook and waterfall, as well as past the ruins of an old cabin. Spring and fall are the best times to see this waterfall. The spring rains make the waterfall flow more, and during the fall the trees make an amazing backdrop to the hike.
Things to do near Cascade Brook Falls: The Ken Weber Conservation Area is located in Greenville, so take some time to explore the city. You’re also just north of Snake Den State Park for more hiking trails. And Providence is just over 10 miles away.
10. Round Top Brook
Those who love fishing will want to stop by Round Top Brook. This waterfall is located in the northern part of Rhode Island in a state managed wilderness area. Round Top is known for its fishing ponds, the brook that connects them, and nearby hiking. The ponds are stocked with trout and canoes can be launched into the pond, so you’ll most likely see others fishing when you visit. The falls themselves are short but wide and are surrounded by trees, making for some great photo opportunities.
Things to do near Round Top Brook: Burrillville is the closest town to these falls, and they’re in the beautiful northwest part of the state near the Massachusetts border. Providence is 25 miles to the southeast and Boston is just over 60 miles to the northeast.
Planning an RV trip to Rhode Island
There are many historic waterfalls to choose from in Rhode Island and an RV is a great way to explore them. We’ve got all the resources you need to plan a perfect vacation. As you explore, be sure to check out our resources on traveling in the state.
Here are guides to some of the best state parks in Rhode Island, as well as all the national parks in the country. RVshare is also the perfect one-stop-shop to help you find an RV rental and get all the information you need for your trip.
