Lake County

Lake County is an administrative division in northwest Montana centered on Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the western United States. The territory includes both water bodies and forested mountains that shape its landscape.

This county was established in 1923 when portions of neighboring Flathead and Missoula counties were separated to create a new administrative region. The division responded to growing settlement and the need for local governance.

Much of this county lies within the Flathead Indian Reservation, where different communities share the same land and daily spaces. You can feel this cultural mix in local gatherings and how residents use their communities together.

The main town of Polson serves as the hub for services and supplies, with shops and dining options spread throughout. Exploring the town center helps you locate what you need, as amenities are distributed across different areas.

The largest freshwater lake of western America sits within this county and dominates its character. This massive body of water shapes local weather patterns and supports year-round outdoor activities.

Location: Montana

Inception: 1923

Capital city: Polson

Shares border with: Flathead County, Missoula County, Sanders County

Website: http://lakecounty-mt.org

GPS coordinates: 47.65000,-114.09000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 20:40