How much does camping cost at Grindstone?

Camping fees at Grindstone are $24 - $36/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Grindstone first-come first-served or reservation?

Grindstone accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Grindstone before I book?

Yes! Grindstone has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Grindstone?

Grindstone is open April 02 to November 29. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Grindstone?

Yes, Grindstone has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Grindstone?

Fire policies at Grindstone: 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.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Grindstone have?

Grindstone has 100 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Grindstone?

Yes, pets are allowed at Grindstone. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Grindstone?

Grindstone offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Grindstone?

Popular activities at Grindstone include Hiking, Fishing, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Grindstone

4.30

163 reviews

1946 Laurel Valley Road, Troutdale, VA 24378, USA

Top 14% in VAFall

B+Report Card

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Featured in:Fall Camping Virginia Tent Camping Virginia Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Virginia +6 more

Quick Facts

3,800 ft

Price

$24 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

100 campsites

Season

Open season for rese...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on George Washington & Jefferson National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

3,800 ft

Price

$24 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

100 campsites

Season

Open season for rese...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on George Washington & Jefferson National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Grindstone

$24.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD ELECTRIC-Double: $36.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $24.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC-Double: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00....

Group Site Fee$48.00

Get Notified When Available

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263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

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Provider

(276) 783-5196sm.fs.mrnra@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

1946 Laurel Valley Road, Troutdale, VA 24378, USA

Grindstone

1946 Laurel Valley Road, Troutdale, VA 24378, USA

Nearby places

Marion, VA (23 miles, approximately 40 minutes)

Chilhowie, VA (22 miles, approximately 37 minutes)

Grayson Highlands State Park (11 miles, approximately 20 minutes)

Weather at Grindstone

Current alerts(5)

closed until further notice due to facility repair needs. | CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. | will be closed until further notice due to facility repair needs.
At the Mount Rogers Trailhead 36.689230, -81.532605
Click here for more information on George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Due to maintenance at Grindstone campground, the facility will be closed for the 2026 season. We apologize for any inconvenience. All Camping Loops are closed for the season. The overnight parking and day-use visitors area are closed.

Best Time to Camp at Grindstone

Best season: fall. Fall delivers the clearest benefit: spectacular high-elevation foliage and crisp, hiking-friendly weather (daytime highs typically 45–60°F, nights often 25–35°F at 3,800 ft). Trails, mountain-biking routes, and wildlife-viewing are at their peak as rhododendrons fade into golden and crimson displays and trout streams run clear—perfect for photography and long ridge hikes. Weekends around peak color draw more visitors, but weekdays remain pleasantly quiet, making October the sweet spot for both景观 Peak months: October, September, June, May Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 14% in VA

Fall is the best season: spectacular high-elevation foliage and clear hiking weather per reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 02 to November 29. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season for reservations is April 1 - November 30. Closed during winter months.

About Grindstone

Grindstone sits in the foothills near Troutdale, Virginia, operated by George Washington & Jefferson National Forest. This large campground serves as a base for exploring Mount Rogers and Grayson Highlands, offering tent sites, RV hookups, primitive walk-in options, and group camping. Visitors come for hiking, mountain biking, and trout fishing, with a playground and splash area drawing families during seasonal operation.

The campground supports multiple camping styles, including primitive tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Double sites are available for larger groups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall delivers the clearest benefit: spectacular high-elevation foliage and crisp, hiking-friendly weather (daytime highs typically 45–60°F, nights often 25–35°F at 3,800 ft). Trails, mountain-biking routes, and wildlife-viewing are at their peak as rhododendrons fade into golden and crimson displays and trout streams run clear—perfect for photography and long ridge hikes. Weekends around peak color draw more visitors, but weekdays remain pleasantly quiet, making October the sweet spot for both景观 Peak months: October, September, June, May Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation3800 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies Fairwood Valley, where rolling pastures transition into forested hillsides beneath a canopy of hardwoods and native rhododendrons. Mountain streams flow nearby, supporting native trout populations and providing a constant soundtrack. The elevation creates a noticeably cooler microclimate compared to surrounding valleys. Wildlife sightings include black bears, white-tailed deer, and hawks riding thermal currents overhead. The geology tells a billion-year story, from ancient basement rocks to more recent volcanic formations visible in the surrounding terrain.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available at the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThe amphitheater occasionally hosts campfire programs. Reviewers noted an appreciation for these activities, though specific details were not provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum 8 people per single site.

Groups

Group sites, including double sites, feature space for multiple vehicles and tents, with amenities such as two picnic tables and fire rings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.

AccessibilityThe campground includes some basic accessible features such as accessible picnic tables. Users noted some unlevel areas that may pose challenges for accessibility.

Site SizeCampsites are generally spacious, with some double sites available for groups. Group sites can accommodate multiple vehicles and tents.

PrivacySites are well-spaced and wooded, providing a good level of privacy. Some sections, like the inner circle of the Cottontail Loop, are less secluded.

Total Campsites100 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites #78-86 if you prefer quiet as these are near the road. Sites in Cottontail Loop offer privacy and shade.

Best CampsitesSite #29 has a small trail behind it leading to both the playground and creek. Site #64 gets praised for proximity to trails and amenities. Site #43 sits near the Konnarock Store. Double sites work well for groups needing multiple vehicles and tents. Avoid the inner circle of Cottontail Loop if you want more seclusion.

Need help booking Grindstone?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Grindstone Campground is located in the Fairwood Valley, surrounded by mixed hardwoods, hemlock, and rhododendrons at an elevation of 3,800 feet. During regular operations, it offers a mix of amenities such as fire rings with cooking grates, tent pads, picnic tables, lantern posts, and electric sites with 30-amp service and water hookups. However, due to the current facility repair needs, the campground has limited amenities available. The Opossum Loop is open for tent campers on a first-come, first-served basis, with no potable water, showers, or dump station available. Porta johns are provided in the Opossum Loop.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Grindstone

The campground offers a diverse range of recreational activities, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The area provides hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, trout fishing, and hunting opportunities. Additionally, the campground itself features family-friendly activities like a playground, volleyball court, and an amphitheater.

Hiking5.0/5Top 6% in Virginia

Direct access to Mount Rogers Trail, Whispering Waters and multiple trails; campground is a hiking base for Mount Rogers/Grayson Highlands.

Fishing4.0/5

Mountain streams around the campground support native trout; anglers frequently cite trout fishing opportunities.

Biking4.0/5Top 17% in Virginia

Mountain biking opportunities are available within and near the campground.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Located in wildlife-rich area with frequent deer and bird sightings.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation, national forest setting suggests darker skies; scenic/remote feel supports stargazing.

Photography4.5/5High-elevation fall colors, pastoral valley-to-forest transitions and wildlife provide strong photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Grindstone

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.3

163 reviews

Satisfactory

Grindstone is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Grindstone Campground generally receives positive reviews, with an average sentiment of 4.39. Users frequently praise the natural beauty, spacious sites, and variety of recreational activities. However, recent comments highlight frustration over partial closures and lack of maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 163 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 163 reviews.

Site #64Loved
Site #64 is noted for being spacious and family-friendly.
Site #29Mentioned
Site #29 is recommended for its proximity to the playground and trails.

What Campers Love

Users highlight the serene atmosphere, excellent hiking trails, and family-friendly amenities like the playground and splash area. The campground's proximity to Mount Rogers and Grayson Highlands is...

Based on 163 reviews

Common Concerns

Some campers express dissatisfaction with the lack of maintenance, noting overgrown areas and outdated facilities. Others mention the high cost relative to current conditions, especially during...

Based on 163 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies due to the campground's remote location. Sites like #29 and #64 are praised for their proximity to trails and amenities. Visitors also suggest...

Based on 163 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the campground is busiest during peak summer and fall foliage seasons. Campers enjoy the cool elevation during summer, while fall visitors appreciate the vibrant autumn colors. Winter...

Based on 163 reviews

Camper Quotes

"One of the most beautiful campgrounds we've stayed at!" – Tara Goode. "Bring a map, or download local maps before coming, because you won't have cell service here." – Michael Paige. "We loved the...

Based on 163 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some users noted unlevel areas and challenges for larger RVs, but there were no significant complaints specific to accessibility for campers with disabilities.

Based on 163 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed as long as they are leashed and attended at all times. No specific feedback from pet owners was provided.

Based on 163 reviews

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Grindstone

$24.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $33.97; STANDARD ELECTRIC-Double: $36.00; STANDARD ELECTRIC: $24.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC-Double: $36.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $24.00....

Group Site Fee$48.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(276) 783-5196sm.fs.mrnra@usda.gov

Nearby Campgrounds

3714 Hwy 16, Marion, VA, 24354, USA

Fox Creek Horse Camp sits in the George Washington & Jefferson National Forest near Marion, Virginia, operated by the United States Forest Service as a seasonal equestrian-focused campground. The mid-elevation forest setting offers direct access to horse trails, primitive tent sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Riders and campers enjoy fishing in nearby streams, wildlife viewing, and fall foliage along the trail network.

Grindstone

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Grindstone

Campground Map

Weather at Grindstone

Current alerts(5)

Best Time to Camp at Grindstone

Planning Tips

About Grindstone

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Grindstone?

Amenities available

RV details

Things to do at Grindstone

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

How campers graded it

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Grindstone

Current alerts(5)

Best Time to Camp at Grindstone

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Grindstone?

Amenities available

Things to do at Grindstone

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns