Hungry Mother, one of the original six Virginia State Parks, has long been a favorite. It's known for beautiful woodlands and a placid 108-acre lake in the heart of the mountains. The park has a sandy beach with a bathhouse, boat rentals (canoe, kayak, paddle boats and paddleboards), a boat launch and a universally accessible fishing pier. Guests also enjoy its campgrounds, cabins, yurts, gift shops, visitor center, six-bedroom family lodge, and hiking and biking trails. The Hemlock Haven Conference Center, which is available for retreats, conferences and special events, is also here. Catering is available.

The Legend of Hungry Mother

Legend has it that when the Native Americans destroyed several settlements on the New River south of the park, Molly Marley and her small child were among the survivors taken to the raiders’ base north of the park. They eventually escaped, wandering through the wilderness eating berries. Molly finally collapsed, and her child wandered down a creek until the child found help. The only words the child could utter were "Hungry Mother." The search party arrived at the foot of the mountain where Molly collapsed to find the child's mother dead. Today that mountain is Molly’s Knob, and the stream is Hungry Mother Creek.

The Hemlock Haven Conference Center includes meeting rooms, cabins, a sports complex and picnic area. Packages and fees vary. Call the conference center directly at 276-781-7425 for more information and reservations. Cabins are reserved through the Customer Service Center, 800-933-7275.

State Parks Tagged With: Marion