If you’re anything like me, sometimes you just crave a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Western Rhode Island is dotted with hidden gems—small towns where seclusion meets natural beauty, and where you can truly unwind. Join me as I take you through ten of these tranquil locations that offer a perfect retreat into nature’s embrace.
10. The Undiscovered Beauty of Foster Center
Foster Center, with a population of just over 4,600 in the entire town of Foster, feels like stepping back in time. I love strolling through its quiet streets, where the historical buildings tell stories of a bygone era. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking in the nearby forests or fishing in local streams.
Agriculture remains a staple here, with local farms dotting the landscape. What makes Foster Center truly secluded is its abundant forests and lack of commercial development, offering a serene environment free from city noise.
Where is Foster Center?
Nestled in the rural stretches of Foster, Foster Center is located in the northwest part of Rhode Island, bordering Connecticut. Its seclusion is enhanced by the surrounding woodlands and minimal traffic, making it a peaceful haven.
Getting there involves a scenic drive along Route 94, which winds through picturesque landscapes and brings you straight into the heart of this quiet community. The journey itself feels like a step away from the modern world.
9. Nature’s Embrace in Exeter
Exeter, with a population around 6,500, offers a blend of rural charm and natural wonder. I’ve found solace hiking the trails of Arcadia Management Area, which offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. The town doesn’t have a bustling commercial center, but that’s part of its allure.
Large lots averaging over an acre provide residents with ample privacy, and the minimal development ensures that nature remains the star of the show. Exeter’s seclusion lies in its vast open spaces and commitment to preserving the natural environment.
Where is Exeter?
Located in Washington County, Exeter sits comfortably between West Greenwich and North Kingstown. Its position away from major highways contributes to its tranquil atmosphere.
To reach Exeter, I usually take Route 102, which meanders through the countryside, offering glimpses of the town’s pastoral beauty. The lack of urbanization and the surrounding woodlands make Exeter feel like a hidden retreat, perfect for those seeking peace and quiet.
8. The Remote Corners of Hopkinton
Hopkinton, home to about 8,000 people, is a town where nature reigns supreme. I enjoy exploring its lesser-known trails and hidden ponds that offer a true escape into the wilderness. The town’s economy is modest, with small businesses and agriculture forming the backbone.
Its sparse housing and being over 15 miles from urban centers contribute to its secluded nature. Hopkinton’s charm lies in its untouched landscapes and the sense of being comfortably removed from busy city life.
Where is Hopkinton?
Situated in the southwestern corner of Rhode Island, Hopkinton borders Connecticut, adding to its remote feel. It’s accessible via I-95, but once you exit the highway, the quiet roads lead you deeper into tranquillity.
The seclusion is due in part to the town’s extensive natural areas and minimal commercial development. Driving into Hopkinton feels like entering a peaceful sanctuary away from the rest of the world.
7. Solitude in Greene
Greene is a small village straddling Coventry and West Greenwich, with a population that comprises part of these towns’ residents. When I’m in Greene, I cherish the large properties and the dense forests that surround them.
There isn’t much in the way of industry here—just the way I like it—with an absence of commercial zones maintaining the quiet ambiance. The natural barriers provided by woodlands offer ultimate privacy, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude.
Where is Greene?
Located in the western part of Rhode Island, Greene is tucked away off Route 117. Its seclusion comes from both its geographic location and the surrounding natural landscape.
To get there, I often take the scenic routes that wind through West Greenwich’s rural areas. The journey underscores Greene’s remoteness, as you pass through stretches of unspoiled nature before arriving in this serene village.
6. Peaceful Living in Chepachet
Chepachet, part of Glocester, has a population of around 7,600 in the town, with Chepachet being the main village. I find its historical roots fascinating, with antique shops and old mills that hark back to the past. Outdoor activities like kayaking on the Chepachet River offer a peaceful way to enjoy the surroundings.
The town’s expansive undeveloped areas contribute to its seclusion, and being away from major highways means less traffic and noise. Chepachet’s peaceful environment stems from its distance from city life and its embrace of a slower pace.
Where is Chepachet?
Chepachet is located in the northwest corner of Rhode Island, along Route 44. Its position away from urban centers like Providence adds to its tranquility.
I usually drive through scenic country roads to reach Chepachet, enjoying the rural landscapes along the way. The town’s location amidst forests and farmlands makes it a peaceful enclave, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle of larger towns.
5. The Quiet Village of Clayville
Clayville is a small community straddling the towns of Scituate and Foster, with a combined population of just over 10,000.
I appreciate the village’s historic charm, including the Clayville Historic District with its preserved 19th-century buildings. Surrounded by woodlands, Clayville offers opportunities for hiking and nature walks.
There aren’t any major industries here, which helps maintain its quiet atmosphere. The seclusion comes from its tucked-away location and the dense forests that envelop the village, providing a peaceful retreat.
Where is Clayville?
Situated along Route 14, Clayville lies in the western part of Rhode Island. Its location away from major highways keeps it off the beaten path.
When I visit, I enjoy the drive through winding rural roads that emphasize the village’s hidden nature. The surrounding woodlands and minimal commercial development make Clayville feel like a well-kept secret nestled within the state.
4. Rural Bliss in West Greenwich
West Greenwich, with a population of about 6,100, is the epitome of rural living. I enjoy the vast tracts of undeveloped land and the average lot sizes over one acre, which provide plenty of space and privacy. Outdoor activities abound, from hiking in the Big River Management Area to fishing in its numerous ponds.
The town has limited commercial activity, focusing instead on preserving its natural surroundings. West Greenwich’s seclusion is due to its low population density and expansive rural landscapes.
Where is West Greenwich?
Located in Kent County, West Greenwich is easily accessible via I-95, yet maintains a feeling of remoteness. Its seclusion is enhanced by the extensive forests and open spaces that separate it from neighboring towns.
Getting there involves a mix of highway travel and scenic rural roads, which I find adds to the sense of escape. The town’s commitment to preserving its rural character makes it a quiet haven away from urban centers.
3. The Secluded Wilderness of Arcadia
The areas within the Arcadia Management Area are some of the most remote locales in Rhode Island. When I want to immerse myself in nature, this is where I go. The vast undeveloped lands offer endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
There are very few homes here, which contributes to the low housing density and the sense of being in true wilderness. The absence of industry and development ensures that the natural landscape remains untouched, making it a perfect spot for secluded living.
Where is Arcadia?
Arcadia Management Area spans across several towns, including Exeter, West Greenwich, and Hopkinton. Its central location in Western Rhode Island adds to its accessibility while maintaining seclusion.
I usually enter through one of the many trailheads off Route 165. The area’s vastness and dense forests make it feel remote, and the gravel roads and trails emphasize the departure from urban life. Arcadia’s sheer size and natural beauty make it a unique secluded destination.
2. Tranquility in Harmony
Harmony, a village in Glocester with a population that contributes to the town’s 10,000 residents, lives up to its name. The peaceful atmosphere here is palpable, with spacious properties and a rural setting that feels miles away from the city.
I enjoy visiting local farms and exploring the quiet backroads. There’s little in the way of industry, which helps preserve the tranquility. Being at least 15 miles from urban centers, Harmony offers a true sense of solitude that I find incredibly refreshing.
Where is Harmony?
Harmony is located along Route 44, west of Glocester’s main village. Its distance from Providence and other urban areas enhances its secluded feel.
Driving to Harmony involves passing through scenic countryside, which I always find relaxing. The village’s rural setting, combined with its lack of commercial zones, makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking peace and quiet.
1. The Hidden Gem of Escoheag
Escoheag is a tiny village within West Greenwich that feels like a world apart. With a sparse population, it’s one of those places where I can truly disconnect. Surrounded by dense forests and large lot sizes, Escoheag offers ultimate privacy.
Outdoor activities are a highlight here, with trails leading through the woodlands and fishing spots along freshwater streams. There’s virtually no industry, preserving the natural beauty and seclusion of the area. The natural barriers provided by the landscape make Escoheag a true hidden gem.
Where is Escoheag?
Located in the southwestern part of West Greenwich, Escoheag is tucked away near the Connecticut border. Its seclusion is due in part to the surrounding Arcadia Management Area and the lack of major roads.
To reach Escoheag, I take Route 165 and then venture onto smaller country roads that lead deep into the forested areas. The journey emphasizes the village’s remoteness, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a secluded retreat.
