Melrose Caverns and Harrison Farmstead

Melrose Caverns and Harrison Farmstead is a 142-acre property with limestone caverns, a Greek Revival farmhouse built in 1859, and several agricultural buildings along U.S. Route 11. The structures include a preserved limestone filling station from 1929 and a log summer kitchen dating to 1820.

During the Civil War, Union and Confederate soldiers carved their names into the cavern walls, leaving marks that remain visible today. These inscriptions document the passage of troops through the region during the conflict.

The site became known as Blue Grottoes of Virginia, drawing visitors who came to explore the natural cave formations and learn about local history. This identity shaped how people understood and visited this corner of the Shenandoah Valley.

The property sits along North Valley Pike in an easily accessible location on U.S. Route 11. Visitors should know that the site is no longer actively operated as a tourist attraction, though it remains preserved as a historic landmark.

The area became a quiet, abandoned property in 1967 when Interstate 81 redirected tourist traffic and the caverns closed. This shift away from tourism allowed the place to preserve its historic appearance to this day.

Location: Rockingham County

GPS coordinates: 38.51722,-78.79167

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:01