State Parks and National Parks

Hungry Mother State Park

The legend has it that when Native Americans destroyed several settlements along the New River, Molly Marley and her child were among the survivors taken to the raiders' base. Molly and her child eventually escaped, wandering through the wilderness eating berries. Molly finally collapsed and her child wandered down the creek until she found help. The only words the child could utter were "hungry mother."

Today, these 2,215 acres of woodlands and water are a popular family destination, with hiking paths, camping, cabins and fishing.

The 108-acre Hungry Mother Lake is renowned for its walleye and muskie.

There are three campgrounds and 20 log and wood-frame cabins with rustic furniture available for weekly rental. The 35-acre Hemlock Haven is the state park system's first conference center.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. Courtesy of Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.