Rhode Island has 15 state parks, and most of them vary wildly both in scenery and amenities. Forth Wetherhill State Park is a former coastal defense battery and training camp… but in spite of its history, it’s now one of the most quiet, peaceful places in the state. If the views don’t make you fall in love with this place, the history certainly will.

Forth Wetherhill State Park is located in Jamestown, and it sits directly across the water from Fort Adams State Park.
Andrew Kondrashov / Google
The park occupies almost 62 acres at the southeastern tip of Conanicut Island.
Between the year 1901 and the end of World War II, Fort Wetherill and Fort Adams were part of a string of coastal defenses designed to protect the bay's entrance points.
leahleopard / TripAdvisor
During World War I, the area was fortified by five companies of the Rhode Island National Guard. After a brief deactivation, it was reactivated in 1940 by the U.S. Army.
In 1946, the military ceased operations at Fort Wetherill, and the site laid abandoned for decades.
Scotty Lyons / Google
In 1972, the state of Rhode Island officially acquired the fort and converted it into a state park.

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These days, the park is known as much for its sweeping views of Newport Harbor and the East Passage of Narragansett Bay as it is as its former military fort status.
Max Donovan / Google
This place has also been a popular sight for viewing the numerous Tall Ship Events and America’s Cup Races.
In addition to history buffs, this place is a big draw for scuba divers.
Dave A / Google
Diving Clubs from New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and right here in Rhody use the facilities all year long.
Fort Wetherill State Park is a one-of-a-kind gem here in Rhode Island.
Pdgram / TripAdvisor
Check it out the next time you're in the area and see for yourself. This is a beautiful place to visit in any season.

Have you ever been to this historic gem?

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Fort Wetherill State Park, 3 Fort Wetherill Rd, Jamestown, RI 02835, USA