Starve Hollow State Rec Area

I write this review through in reference to the hiking trails. I have been an avid hiker my entire 37 years. Was very excited to hike this beautiful piece of property for the first time this weekend. Sadly, what I experienced was by far the most neglected set of trails I have ever been on. Nearly all trails were in need of major maintenance. On top of that, the trail map in dangerously deceptive in the descriptions. For example, trail 5 is labeled as "moderate" when its by far the toughest non mountain trail I have ever been on. There are several placed where the trail has a 40-50% incline. There were several water crossings that you either couldnt cross at all or had to jump over. There are many hikers who could not take this on, but would think they could as it is labeled "moderate" when it should be labeled as "very rugged". Trail 1, which is the single access point to all the other trails was completely flooded. There was literally a creek flowing through it going into the lake. It was pretty clear this is a common occurrence but there were 0 stepping stones, board walks, or bridges. The few bridges that did exist in the park, werent in the areas they were needed most. The park must do a better job of maintaining and describing these trails. I highly encourage folks to follow the All Trails app info vs the park map.

Part of my New Years goal is to get one Hike in each of the next 21 days...Starve Hollow was sopping wet but it was good to see the waterline back up again. And I saw two muskrats swimming along the water's edge. Pretty cool little critters.. I'd never seen them before. The trails are pretty well marked but still a little confusing. For me at least🤪 In the summertime, this place has a nice, clean little beach.

I love the sights and sounds on a winter's day! Plus there's no gate fee. Yay!