I know by now you are convinced that August's Park of the Month Hungry Mother State Park is the perfect vacation spot. But if you still need a little more reason to visit, let me tell you about the surrounding area.

Hungry Mother State Park offers relaxation to everyone

Town of Marion:

It is true that Marion is a small town. But there is plenty to do here. The downtown streets are lined with antique shops, restaurants, and even the Lincoln Theater, home of Song of the Mountains series. During the summer months a local favorite is the Park Place Drive-In . It is a traditional drive-in theater with many modern conveniences including an ice cream shop, mini-golf, and current feature movies.  And where else can you get two movies for the price of one?

Marion Virginia is packed for of things to do and places to eat

Trails, trails, and more trails:

Reading about a state park, I am sure you are anticipating the hiking trail experience. If Hungry Mother State Park's 17 miles of trail isn’t enough there is always the Appalachian Trail. Hiking a section of the famed Appalachian Trail is a bucket list item for many hikers. Access points are scattered throughout the county.

Hiking on the Appalachian Trail is a bucket list item for some

If Hungry Mother State Park’s trails have met your hiking needs, why not try out the Blue Ridge Highlands Fishing Trail? Along this designated fishing trail you will find beautiful trout streams, and breathtaking lakes full of bass. There are places for both shoreline and boat fishing. Hint: If you are staying at Hungry Mother State Park and want a few tips of where to go, find Park Ranger John Allison. He is always willing to share.

The South Fork of the Holston River is along the Blue Ridge Highlands Fishing Trail

The last trail I want to tell you about is the Back of the Dragon, not to be confused with the Tail of the Dragon in North Carolina. The Back of the Dragon, Highway 16, runs from Marion, Virginia to Tazewell, Virginia. This is a popular scenic drive over mountain tops and through rich valleys. In the name of full disclosure, I have to tell you this road crosses over three mountains and has many switchback turns that enrich the experience for many.

The Back of the Dragon Motorcycle Trail runs by Hungry Mother State Park

Other Virginia State Parks (within an hour’s drive):

Grayson Highlands State Park – The mountainous terrain provides hikes with a different look and feel. There is a 1,700 feet elevation change between Hungry Mother State Park (2,200 feet) and Grayson Highlands (3,900 feet) offices. The highest peaks within the park are over 5,000 feet high. Needless to say when there is that kind of change in elevation, there is also a noticeable change in the climate. Grayson Highlands is known as being a Gateway to the Appalachian Trail, a bouldering destination, and the home of the wild ponies. This park is approximately 45 miles from Hungry Mother State Park.

Grayson Highlands State Park is a "Gateway to the Appalachian Trail"

New River Trail State Park – The Park is a 57-mile rail to trail park. The trail runs along an old rail road bed and much of the trail runs beside the New River. This trail is primarily flat and makes a great day outing for families with children. Bikes, canoes, kayaks and tubes can all be rented at the park. This park also does guided horseback rides, both short rides and long rides. New River Trail State Park is approximately 45 miles North on Interstate 81.

The New River is a perfect place to kayak

Claytor Lake State Park – With three miles of lake frontage, Claytor Lake State Park has a swim beach, fishing, and a marina within the park. It also has nearly four miles of easy rated hiking trails. Bikes can be rented at the park as well.  Enjoy a family picnic or moments of solitude sitting by the lake. Claytor Lake State Park is approximately 65 miles from Hungry Mother State Park.

Summer days spent fishing at Claytor Lake make great memories

This entire region is known for vibrant colors throughout the autumn season. You may want to keep in mind that fall foliage begins to turn earlier the higher you go in elevation. There could be as much as two week's difference in peak color times. You may want to call the park ahead of time to check out the normal color peaks for that park.  

Fall foliage brings a new beauty to Hungry Mother State Park

There is so much to do here at Hungry Mother State Park you may have to plan a second trip just to see it all. I hope to see you soon.