Natural swimming hole
Hungry Mother State Park
Lake · Virginia
About this swimming hole
Hungry Mother State Park's 108-acre lake has a swim beach in the mountains above Marion. The park's legend - a mother and child surviving Indian captivity - gives it its name. It's Southwest Virginia's classic state-park swim.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | shallow beach entry |
| Best season | May-September |
| Fees | Park pass |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Seasonal beach hours |
| Parking | Park beach lot |
| Amenities | restrooms, lifeguard seasonal, campground, picnic tables |
| County | Smyth County |
| Nearest town | Marion |
| Safety notes | Lifeguard seasonal; swim within marked area |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Hungry Mother State Park?
Yes — Hungry Mother State Park is listed as a natural swimming spot in Virginia. Heads-up: Lifeguard seasonal; swim within marked area. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Hungry Mother State Park require reservations?
No reservations are required at Hungry Mother State Park based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Hungry Mother State Park?
Reported fee info: Park pass. Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Hungry Mother State Park?
The best season is typically May-September.
Keep exploring
Verify before you go. Conditions, fees, reservations, and access can change — confirm details with the official link before visiting. Last verified: September 2026