Lake Mary Ronan

Lake Mary Ronan State Park encompasses 140 acres on the northwest shore of Lake Mary Ronan in Lake County. The park provides camping and fishing on a scenic mountain lake surrounded by forests in western Montana's Salish Mountains.

Lake Mary Ronan supports kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, yellow perch, and largemouth bass. Loons call on the lake, and ospreys nest nearby. Black bears, moose, and white-tailed deer inhabit the surrounding forests.

Dense forests of Douglas fir, western larch, and ponderosa pine surround the lake. The understory includes huckleberry, beargrass, and other native shrubs. Wildflowers bloom prolifically in spring and early summer.

Lake Mary Ronan is a natural mountain lake formed by glacial activity in the Salish Mountains. The lake covers about 1,500 acres at an elevation of approximately 3,600 feet. The surrounding mountains consist of Belt Supergroup sedimentary rocks.

Western Montana's mountain climate produces cold, snowy winters and pleasant summers. Annual precipitation at the lake exceeds 20 inches. The lake typically freezes in winter and thaws by May.

The lake and surrounding area have been important to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. The lake was named for Mary Ronan, wife of Indian agent Peter Ronan who served at the Flathead Agency.

Lake Mary Ronan State Park was established to provide public access to this scenic mountain lake. The park offers one of western Montana's most popular camping and fishing destinations.

Fishing for kokanee salmon is the primary draw, especially during the fall spawning run. Boating, swimming, and camping provide diverse recreation. The forested mountain setting provides scenic beauty.

The park offers 27 campsites, a boat ramp, and day-use facilities. It is located about 7 miles northwest of Dayton via a paved road off Highway 93.

Fish management balances native and introduced species. The park protects lakeshore habitat while providing recreation. Invasive species monitoring protects the lake ecosystem.