Goddard Park FAQ
Goddard Memorial State Park is a free, nearly 490-acre RI DEM park in the Potowomut section of Warwick, Rhode Island, open sunrise to sunset all year. It has a free saltwater beach with seasonal lifeguards, Rhode Island's only state-run golf course, 18 miles of bridle trails, 355 picnic tables and a carousel pavilion rented for weddings. These are the questions people ask most, with short answers and a link to the full guide.
Visiting
The answers below come from RI DEM, Rhode Island's state park regulations, the City of Warwick's listing for the park, RIDOH and C and L Stables. Fees and hours can change; the hours page and DEM's park page have the latest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Goddard Memorial State Park free?
Yes. There is no entrance or parking fee, and RI DEM says there are no fees to access beaches within state parks. You pay only for reserved picnic sites, golf, the carousel pavilion and the equestrian area.
Where is Goddard Park?
At 1095 Ives Road in the Potowomut section of Warwick, Rhode Island, on Greenwich Cove and Greenwich Bay. RI DEM's map gives the mailing address as East Greenwich, RI 02818.
What are Goddard Park's hours?
Sunrise to sunset, every day of the year. The park office is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; call (401) 884-2010, ext. 1.
Can you swim at Goddard Park?
Yes. Goddard has a non-surf saltwater beach with lifeguards on duty in season from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., as staffing allows. RIDOH sometimes closes the swimming area for high bacteria counts; check its Beach Viewer map or call 401-222-2751.
Are dogs allowed at Goddard Park?
Yes, on a leash of six feet or less. Dogs are not allowed on the beach from April 1 to September 30, or in the designated swim area at any time.
Do you need a reservation to picnic at Goddard Park?
From April 1 to October 31, yes: state rules require a permit to use a picnic table at Goddard. Sites cost $10 to $100 a day; the Oak and Maple groves rent the same day for $10. Call (401) 884-2010, ext. 1.
How much is golf at Goddard Park?
Nine holes cost $15 on weekdays and $20 on weekends; seniors and juniors pay $10 and $12. Tee times are by phone only at (401) 884-9834. The course closed early for 2026 on September 21.
Can you go horseback riding at Goddard Park?
Yes. C and L Stables runs guided rides on the park's 18 miles of bridle trails for ages 7 and up, from $45 to $125. Call 401-886-5246.
Can you get married at Goddard Park?
Yes. RI DEM rents the Carousel Performing Arts Center for weddings and events for $350 a day. Book at least a year ahead. Alcohol is not allowed in state parks.
Can you camp at Goddard Park?
No. Goddard is a day-use park that closes at sunset, and RI DEM lists no camping there. Rhode Island's state campgrounds are at other parks.
Is there a boat ramp at Goddard Park?
Yes. RI DEM lists an accessible boat ramp. Trailer parking is only for vehicles launching or landing a boat, for up to 72 hours.
Can you fish at Goddard Park?
Yes, saltwater fishing. Anglers 16 and over need a Rhode Island saltwater licence ($7 residents, $10 non-residents) or one from Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York or Maine.
Can you drink alcohol at Goddard Park?
No. Rhode Island's state park rules prohibit possessing, drinking or selling alcohol in state parks, and Goddard is not one of the licensed exceptions.
Are there restrooms at Goddard Park?
Yes. RI DEM lists restroom facilities and its map shows two restroom buildings on the park road. The City of Warwick lists a seasonal beach bathhouse.
How big is Goddard Memorial State Park?
RI DEM's history says the 1927 gift was nearly 490 acres of land on Ives Road. The park has 355 picnic tables, 11 game fields and 18 miles of bridle trails.
Who was Goddard Park named for?
Colonel Robert Hale Ives Goddard, a Civil War aide to General Ambrose Burnside and Rhode Island state senator. His son and daughter gave the estate in his memory in 1927; the park opened in 1930.
Is there still a carousel at Goddard Park?
No. The 1890 Loof carousel ran there from 1931 to 1973, when it was sold. Its pavilion is now the Carousel Performing Arts Center.
What is there to do near Goddard Park?
Oakland Beach, Warwick City Park, Rocky Point State Park, Conimicut Lighthouse and Pawtuxet Village are all in Warwick. See the guide to things to do in Warwick.