Grindstone

GRINDSTONE

Part of George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

Overview

Grindstone Campground is tucked in the Fairwood Valley among pastures and wooded hillsides. The surrounding Mount Rogers National Recreation Area provides endless opportunities for fun and relaxation in the nature setting. The Campground will be closed until further notice due to facility repair needs. Opossum Loop will be open for tent campers. There will be no available water. No Dump Station available. 

Facilities

All sites have a fire ring with a cooking grate, lantern post, picnic table, and tent pad. Domestic pets are allowed as long as they are attended and kept on a leash no longer than six feet. Standard electric sites have 30 amp service and a water hook-up. PLEASE NOTE ALL CAMPSITES IN COTTONTAIL AND GROUNDHOG DEN WILL BE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. NO AVAILABLE WATER IN OPOSSUM, COTTONTAIL, AND GROUNDHOG DEN LOOPS. 

Natural Features

At 3,800 feet, Grindstone is surrounded by mixed hardwoods, hemlock and rhododendrons. The Mount Rogers National Recreation Area spans 200,000 acres of National Forest, with four wildlife-rich wilderness areas.

Recreation

The area offers excellent hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and hunting. Recommended hiking trails include the Mount Rogers Trail at 7.5 miles and the Whispering Waters Nature Trail at 0.6 miles.

Several streams pass by just beyond the campground, with trout fishing available in abundance.

The campground boasts a water play area in the creek, an amphitheater, a playground and volleyball courts to entertain families.

Nearby Attractions

The Mount Rogers Scenic Byway, which traverses more than 50 miles with views of forestland and open rural countryside, is accessible nearby.

Contact Info

This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (276) 783-5196.

Important Notices

  • Due to maintenance at Grindstone campground, the facility will be partially closed for the 2024 season. We apologize for any inconvenience.  

  • There are 20 camping units in the Opossum Hollow Loop available on a first-come, first-served basis. There are no reservalbe sites. Porta johns are provided in Oppossum Loop.

  • Cottontail and Groundhog Loops are closed for the season.

  • All bathhouses and the trailer waste disposal station are closed. 

  • There are no water, sewer, or electric sites available.

  • There is a $5.00 fee for overnight parking and day-use visitors. Fee envelopes are available at the kiosk near the contact station.

  • Click here for more information on George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
  • Don't Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.

Available Activities

  • Day Use Area - Day Use Area
  • Hiking - Hiking
  • Fishing - Fishing
  • Camping - Camping
  • Biking - Biking
  • Scenic Drive - Scenic Drive

Directions

From Marion, Virginia, take exit 45 to Highway 16 south. Continue for 17 miles, then turn right onto Highway 603. After 6 miles turn left into the Grindstone Campground entrance.

Contact Information

1946 Laurel Valley Road
Troutdale, VA 24378

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip

Available Campsites

Photo Gallery