Virginia / Smyth County / Jefferson National Forest / Mount Rogers National Recreation Area

Grindstone

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates mid-April through late November. During the open season, only Opossum Hollow Loop (20 sites) is available for primitive tent camping due to ongoing wastewater system repairs. No reservations accepted.

About

Tucked in the Fairwood Valley at 3,800 feet elevation, Grindstone Campground offers a cool mountain retreat within the 200,000-acre Mount Rogers National Recreation Area. The campground is undergoing a major wastewater system replacement project funded by the Great American Outdoors Act, resulting in most facilities being closed. However, the Opossum Hollow Loop remains accessible for tent campers seeking primitive camping experiences. The area offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and trout fishing. The Mount Rogers Trail (7.5 miles) begins from the campground and leads to the summit of Virginia's highest peak. The shorter Whispering Waters Nature Trail (0.6 miles) provides an easy walk through the forest. Several trout streams flow nearby, and the Mount Rogers Scenic Byway offers stunning views of forestland and rural countryside. Wildlife is abundant in the surrounding four wilderness areas, and the elevation provides relief from summer heat.

Directions

From Marion, VA (I-81 exit 45), take Highway 16 south for 17 miles. Turn right onto State Route 603 and continue 6 miles to the Grindstone Campground entrance on the left. From I-81 northbound, take exit 35 at Chilhowie, turn right onto County Road 762 and travel approximately 10 miles (becomes County Road 600 at the blinking yellow light). Turn left onto State Route 603 and continue 5 miles to the campground entrance on the right.

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