Virginia State Park's original six state parks opened in 1936, Hungry Mother State Park remains a visitor favorite.
What makes Hungry Mother so popular?
The lake is 108 acres and in the center of activities at the park. Kayak, canoes, and paddle boats are all available to rent at the Dock and Shop located on the lakes edge just behind the Restaurant. Visitors are welcome to bring their own boats as well. Only non-gasoline powered motors may be used on the lake.
The Boat House
Swimming
The park’s swim beach is a family favorite because it has something for everyone. For those just wanting to relax, there is plenty of room to spread out a blanket and soak in the sun or for the more adventurous, there is the high dive. The diving tower has been here since the park opened. Swimming is offered Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Fishing
Fishing from the shore or by boat is a popular activity at the park. The lake is home to Crappie, Blue Gill, Catfish, Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Muskie, and Carp. All of Virginia’s fishing regulations apply while fishing at Hungry Mother State Park.
Trails
There is over 17 miles of trails at Hungry Mother. Unless marked otherwise, the trails are accessible to both hikers and bikers. The trails in the park range from a easy paved trail that runs through the park to the difficult 1 mile hike to the summit of Molly’s Knob. The newest of the trails at Hungry Mother opened in 2012. The Clyburn Hollow Loop Trail is classified as an easy trail with vistas that overlook the lake. It doesn't’ matter your which trails you use, the views will be your reward.
Overlook from the Clyburn Hollow Trail
Overnight Accommodations
There is so much to do in the park and visit in the surrounding area, consider staying a few nights or a week. The park offers four campgrounds including Camp Burson, one of only two Virginia State Parks campgrounds with sewer hookups and a tents only campground that features unique platforms and great views.
Platform tent camping
Some of the sites in Camp Burson offer views of the spillway
Hungry Mother also has more than 30 cabins. Many of the cabins are log or frame cabins built by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The Hungry Mother Lodge is a beautifully restored CCC era building that sleeps up to 15.
One of the park's cabins
Overnight lodging can be booked up to eleven months in advance either through our Virginia State Parks managed information and reservation center open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Simply call 800-933-7275. Or you can also book 24/7 through our web reservations.
And There's More
The park offers a seasonally operated You can find more information here.
There is so much to do in the surrounding area. Route 16 that runs through the park is know as the Back of the Dragon and a great trip. Click here for a detailed list of area attractions.
How To Find Us
Hungry Mother State Park is in Smyth County. To get there, take Exit 47 from Interstate 81. Travel approximately one mile on Route 11 toward Marion. Turn right on Route 16 north and travel four miles to the park Register at the Discovery Center.