RV Rentals in Polson, Montana

Explore Polson, Montana, in an RVshare RV Rental

Polson, Montana, is a city of about 4,500 people on the south end of Flathead Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in the Western United States. For thousands of years, it was the home of the Salish and the Pend d'Oreilles Native Americans. The first non-Native American fur traders arrived about 1820, and there was a growing demand for larger shipping facilities. Abraham Finley opened a ferry service across the south end of Flathead Reservoir in 1840. He sold the business to Baptiste Aeneas in 1869, and this merchant built the first non-Native American log cabin. 

Governor of the Washington Territory Isaac Stevens signed the Treaty of Hellgate with the Native Americans in 1855, and the government created a reservation where Polson is now. Officials laid out the city in 1909, and in 1910, President Taft authorized non-Indians to settle on surplus reservation lands, so many settlers moved to the area. Simultaneously, Congress approved $6,000 for the deepening of Polson Harbor so that steamboats could use the facility. The railroad reached Polson in 1918. You can learn more about these events by touring the Polson-Flathead Historical Museum, which is part of Lewis and Clark National Park and the Miracle of America Museum. 

Wild sweet cherries have continuously grown in the area. In the late 1900s, Lambert cherries were grown by over 90 producers on over 600 acres near Flathead Lake. Much of the demand for Lambert cherries has dissipated, but growers are still growing other varieties that mature around Labor Day. From July to Labor Day, you can find many cherry vendors lining local highways. You can also pick-your-own cherries at Fat Robin Orchard & Farm, Hansen Farms, and Spotted Bear Vineyards & Lavender Farm. Head to Good Grub MT, Lake City Bakery and Eatery, or Betty's Diner to find dishes created with local cherries. 

Starting in the 1940s, many people from nearby towns built homes at Flathead Lake. You can easily rent a vessel or bring your own and launch it on this river. Flathead Lake State Park operates boat ramps in six different places. Other options include Elmo Fishing Access Site and Sportsman Bridge. 

Events in Polson, Montana

• Cherry Festival- Celebrate sweet cherries at this two-day festival in early August featuring sidewalk art contests, Montana-made products, pancake breakfast, and entertainment in the downtown area. 

• Flathead Festival of Art – This late July festival in Sacajawea Park features a juried art show and the chance to meet many Montana artists. 

• Sandpiper Art Gallery Festival – Participate in workshops and view art at this early August festival held on the Lake County Courthouse lawn. 

• Cruisin' By the Bay Car Show – See one of the largest classic car shows in the Pacific Northwest at this mid-August festival.