Hungry

This large, undeveloped island is located on the Back River just east of the mouth of the Medomak River. The Penobscot Nation purchased Hungry Island from Chewonki in 2025 with help from Maine Coast Heritage Trust, who holds a conservation easement on the island guaranteeing public access in perpetuity. The island has three campsites open for public use on the Northwest Side, The East Cove, and the South Point. Trails connect all three sites through a meadow and an old farm site.

The Penobscot people have a profound and symbiotic relationship with their environment. This relationship is deeply rooted in their history, culture, and spirituality. The Penobscots view themselves as caretakers of the land, rivers, and forests surrounding them. The Nation members are known for their reliance on traditional ecological knowledge, which has been passed down through generations. The Penobscot community actively participates in conservation efforts and engages in dialogues about environmental policies affecting their land and water resources. They have taken significant steps to restore the ecological health of the Penobscot River and the surrounding waterways, which has endured damage from pollution and industrial waste.

The Penobscot Nation continues to innovate in its approach to environmental stewardship. They engage in initiatives focused on education and community involvement, aiming to instill ecological awareness among younger generations. These programs emphasize the value of traditional practices and modern sustainability principles in combating contemporary environmental challenges.

The island sees frequent use by local residents in and around Muscongus Bay. There are extensive mudflats to the east and rocks and ledges along the west shore, so please navigate carefully.