Touring the Ocean State Harley-Davidson Shop

Harvest Hosts is an incredibly unique RV membership program. Through this program, members are granted access to 5295 host locations across North America for overnight accommodations with no camping fees. To support each of these businesses, members typically make a small purchase of wine or produce or whatever it is that the business is selling or offering. Locations include establishments such as farms, wineries, breweries, museums, restaurants, attractions, and more. Ocean State Harley-Davidson Shop is a prime example of one of our awesome hosts. Located in Exeter, Rhode Island, this shop sells a variety of Harley-Davidson-themed gifts, cleaning supplies, clothing, and more. Continue on to learn all about the shop, its history, the business today, and its joining of the Harvest Hosts program.

The History

After pondering the idea of opening his own business for quite awhile, Russ and Barbara Hampton, along with the help of their daughter Amy, opened the Ocean State Harley-Davidson in Warwick, Rhode Island, in 1988. It quickly became popular, expanding to include sales, service, and a parts department. Fifteen years later, they opened a second shop in Exeter, Rhode Island, giving customers an alternative to traveling into Warwick. Today, the business in Exeter continues to thrive, with a sales team, service department, shop, and more. 

The Business Today

With over thirty years in business in Rhode Island and seventeen years at their Exeter location, the business also continues to function as a popular meeting area for group rides, runs, and rallies for the New England motorcycle community. Their sales department features a massive inventory, and they are always expanding to add new stock. In addition, they sell various goods and gifts, as well as clothing and Harley-Davidson themed gear. Their service department performs regular maintenance and repairs, in addition to selling motorcycle parts for those who do their own work. They also host regular events throughout the year and feature a rotating museum of vintage gear and bikes, switching up the displays every few months.

Joining Harvest Hosts

Ocean State Harley-Davidson Shop joined the Harvest Hosts program in late 2020. They offer potable water and a 15-amp hookup for guests, and they give parking directions upon arrival. Shop guests can patron them by purchasing something from their shop, which includes gear, cleaning supplies, and more.I personally visited this Harvest Hosts location on a road trip through New England in April 2021. The shop is not formally open until May 5, 2021, but I was permitted to park in the parking lot. It was quiet and safe, and I plan to return at a later date to actually check out the facilities. Check in was also easy, and they were very friendly and accommodating.Ocean State Harley-Davidson Shop is an incredible Rhode Island Harvest Hosts location, perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts or anyone with an interest in owning a bike. Be sure to stop by on your next trip through central Rhode Island.Looking for more RV camping locations in Rhode Island? Check out this list of recommendations for RV Camping in Rhode Island.