Grotto History
The Front Royal Grotto, a local chapter of the National Speleological Society (NSS), was established to serve the vibrant caving community in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia. Nestled near the karst-rich terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Front Royal has long been a gateway to some of the most fascinating cave systems in the eastern United States. The grotto formed as a way to bring together enthusiasts, scientists, and conservationists who shared a passion for exploring and protecting these underground wonders.
Throughout its history, the Front Royal Grotto has been deeply involved in cave exploration, mapping, and education. Members have conducted surveys of previously undocumented caves, participated in regional and national NSS events, and offered training in safe caving techniques. Conservation has always been a cornerstone of the grotto’s mission—its members have worked to preserve delicate cave ecosystems, protect bat habitats, and promote responsible access to privately owned cave sites.
Today, the Front Royal Grotto continues to thrive as a hub for speleological activity in Virginia. With a mix of seasoned cavers and curious newcomers, the group hosts regular meetings, field trips, and outreach events to foster community and stewardship. As environmental pressures mount and interest in outdoor adventure grows, the grotto remains committed to its founding principles: exploration, education, and conservation of the subterranean world.
Current Leadership
Chair
Janet Tinkham
Janet was introduced to caving in 1982 through the George Mason University Outing Club and in 1991 became one of the founding members of the Front Royal Grotto. In addition to serving as FRG Chair, Janet serves on the board of the Cave Conservancy of the Virginias, is Chair of the Virginia Region Land Owner Award Committee and a member of Tri-State Grotto.
Janet and her husband Rex have a son, daughter, four grandchildren, a dog and 2 cats.
Vice-Chair
Eric Zieg
Eric first went caving as a kid in scouts, and loved it! Years later, as an adult he joined the Front Royal grotto to get back into it. When not caving, he can often be found doing Dad things or hammering away in his blacksmith shop. Eric is a NSS member and is involved with the Page and Shenandoah County Surveys.
Secretary
Samantha Spector
Sam fell in love with caving after joining West Virginia University’s student grotto in 2021. She is a member of the NSS and has explored caves across WV, VA, OH, PA, KY, TN, AL, and GA,
along with several caving trips abroad including New Zealand and the Dominican Republic. In addition, Sam works as an Environmental Scientist and volunteers to help protect wildlife.
Treasurer
Mike Armstrong
“I grew up in northern Illinois, close to the Illinois Wisconsin border. The only cave I remember visiting was Cave of the Mounds, a commercial cave in Wisconsin. In the fall of 1966 I enrolled in The American University in Washington DC. It was there that I heard about a small caving club on campus. I made contact with their leader, and was invited to join their small group on a caving trip to West Virginia. At that time, in northern va. the best source for caving gear was in Oakton Va, at a store called Appalachian Outfitters. They had everything necessary to equip the outdoor enthusiast. Our groups were small, usually 4 to 5. We would leave Washington on a Friday afternoon and head west on route 55. There was no complete route 55 at that time. We would usually stop in Front Royal at a greasy spoon restaurant for dinner. Our destination was the PSC field house outside Riverton near Seneca Caverns. I remember the breakfasts at Mrs, Smiths. At that time, it was much easier to gain access to most of the caves.”
