Moonrise Kingdom, a picturesque cove nestled in Jamestown, Rhode Island, is a hidden gem located within the expansive Fort Wetherill State Park. This idyllic cove derives its name from the 2012 movie "Moonrise Kingdom," a cinematic masterpiece produced by the renowned director Wes Anderson. The film is set in 1965 on the fictional island of New Penzance, situated off the coast of New England. The heartwarming story revolves around twelve-year-olds Sam and Suzy, played by Jared Gilman and Kara Hayward, who fall in love and embark on a daring adventure. When a violent storm threatens the island, a group of quirky adults, including characters portrayed by Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, and Bill Murray, mobilizes a search party to find the young runaways before disaster strikes. The movie beautifully captures the essence of young love, friendship, and the adventurous spirit of youth.

Fort Wetherill State Park, where Moonrise Kingdom cove is located, has a rich history. It was once home to Fort Wetherill, the largest fort within the Harbor Defenses of Narragansett Bay. The fort played an active role through World War II but was subsequently decommissioned. In the early 1970s, the state of Rhode Island acquired the site and repurposed it for recreational use, preserving its historical significance.

Within the park, two beaches were used as filming locations in the indie favorite "Moonrise Kingdom." The beach where Sam and Suzy set up their tent, dance, and take exhilarating jumps off the rocks is a key location. Additionally, the beach where the young protagonists engage in heartfelt conversations about their aspirations and inscribe the words "Moonrise Kingdom" into the sandy shores adds to the movie's charm.

Visitors to Moonrise Kingdom cove and Fort Wetherill State Park can enjoy the convenience of free parking. There's a well-sized parking lot right at the cove, providing easy access to the scenic beauty of the area. The park boasts numerous additional parking areas throughout, offering hundreds of spaces in total. While the park tends to get busy during the summer months, the off-season offers a more tranquil and peaceful experience, making it an ideal destination year-round for those seeking natural beauty and a touch of cinematic magic. During the summer, many people enjoy swimming, scuba diving, and sunbathing at Moonrise Kingdom. Photographers flock to the location year-round too!