Grindstone

Grindstone campground is a large, primitive NF site that will only have a single loop(Opossum) open with no water or electricity for 2021 and the foreseeable future.  I spoke with volunteers who stated there are extensive infrastructure needs and no funds to complete the repairs. So, if you have a tent or smaller RV, bring your own drinking water, and enjoy this quiet, wooded campground. There are portable toilets. Some of the site drives are sloped. The dump station is unavailable. For a site without facilities, the price seems a bit steep  ($24 for a single,$48 for a double site).

If you have kids, there’s a play area, as well as a basketball and volleyball courts. There is also a small stone pool along the creek. I camped here with friends the weekend we decided to hike Mt Rogers. The trail leaves from the campground with some switchbacks. The summit of Mt Rogers, VA’s high point, is wooded, but there are some open fields and the potential to see wild horses as you approach the final ascent. There are easier trails than this, but you can enjoy relative solitude for most of the trail until you join the madness that is Grayson Highlands with the crowds out for a quick ascent.

Such a nice campground. Woodsy sites, access to hiking trails. Spacious camp sites with all the amenities.

Took a last minute trip with the family and we were not disappointed. I grew up camping but my wife has never been. I knew I would have to pick a spot that would change her opinion about camping. On our way home she was already looking for camping arrangements for next season.

We stayed at Camp 5 which was gravel and came in handy when it rained, no muddy mess packing up. I believe all the tent grounds had gravel. The fire pit had a great grate for cooking in our cast iron pans and the picnic table was a huge plus. Bathrooms were clean and the Host were extremely friendly and can answer all of your questions from the campground to local things to do.

Things I wish I had- more twine/rope to hang rain fly (trees are far apart). Bring firewood from the local grocery store, Food City, in Chilhowie. An axe to cut some of that wood into smaller pieces. I had it but remember to bring cash to pay for your stay. I’m not sure if they take cards, we arrived at 9pm and had to fill out an envelope and place in a drop box. Also, at the time of this review, the gates absolutely close at 10pm to 7am. Make sure you are in/out of the gates in time.

Great campground for seasoned campers and even better for beginners.