![]() The Hemlock Haven Conference Center includes meeting rooms, cabins, a sports complex and a picnic area. The debate over the legend and the park name continues to this day. The name was changed to Southwest Virginia Lake and then to Hungry Mother State Park not long before the park opened. Originally it was to be called Forest Lake. The name of the park is wrapped in its own mystery. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps developed the park, and the creek was dammed to form the lake. The mountain went on to be called Molly’s Knob and the stream Hungry Mother Creek. The only words the child could utter were “Hungry Mother.” A search party later found Molly dead at the foot of the mountain near the creek. One day Molly collapsed from exhaustion, and the youngster continued along the creek until help was found. Molly and her little one eventually escaped and wandered through the woods foraging for food and searching for shelter. ![]() Legend has it that a pioneer named Molly Marley and her small child were captured by a Native American tribe and taken to their mountain camp. The one widely accepted by the people of Southwest Virginia goes like this… The Legend of Hungry Mother takes many forms, and all have whispers of the truth. The Hemlock Haven Conference Center, which is available for retreats, conferences and special events, is also here. Guests also enjoy campgrounds, cabins, yurts, gift shops, a visitor center, a six-bedroom family lodge, and hiking and biking trails. ![]() The park has a sandy beach with a bathhouse, boat rentals (canoe, kayak, paddleboats and paddleboards), a boat launch and a universally accessible fishing pier. It's known for beautiful woodlands and a placid 108-acre lake in the heart of the mountains. One of the original six Virginia State Parks, Hungry Mother has long been a favorite. Please check here for the interpretive program schedule. Hemlock Haven Conference Center and the Lakeview Event Facility are available for private events and catering, please call the park for reservations. Lakeview Event Facility (formerly The Restaurant) is not available for public dining. Swimming at this time is not recommended due to the air and water temperatures. Unguarded swimming is available in the roped off area when guards are not present and at no additional fee. Guarded swimming, concession stand and beach restroom are closed for the season. Guests may visit or contact the main office at 27 to check in.Ĭreekside is open for the season. Guests arriving for Camp Burson can pick up their packet from the kiosk located to the left of the Burson office door. to 4 p.m.Ĭamp Burson office/gift shop is currently closed for the season. The Discovery Center (main office) is open daily 8 a.m. This content takes priority over any other information provided on this park's webpage.
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