Volunteer Park is a truly wonderful place and a one-of-a-kind amenity in Lakeside, Montana.
The 1.5-acre park, along the Flathead Lake waterfront, is at the end of Adams Street (the area where the Bayshore Motel previously stood).
View of Flathead Lake from the docks at Volunteer Park in Lakeside, Montana.
Volunteer Park: Swimming, Boating, Picnicking, Relaxing
Residents and visitors enjoy this waterfront park throughout the year. But the park comes alive in the spring and summer when people of all ages swim, kayak, picnic, or just relax on the rocks along the roughly 200 feet of Flathead Lake shoreline.
Volunteer Park also has clean restrooms, a water fountain, bike racks, and a dock with easy access and special accommodations for people with wheelchairs.
The three pavilions at the park share the tall pine trees and waterfront view of Flathead Lake. Each of the pavilions can be rented for large groups, but anyone can pull up a bench and enjoy a picnic lunch.
The beauty and joy of the park is obvious. And even after a few minutes, you’ll find it hard to leave (especially at sunrise or sunset). But perhaps less obvious is the generosity and true volunteer spirit behind the park.
Volunteer Park: The Generosity of Bruce Ennis & Margaret Davis
The park was a generous and very gracious gift from Bruce Ennis and his wife, Margaret Davis. They developed the idea of a lakefront park and then donated it to Flathead County for everyone to enjoy. The Flathead County Commissioner’s office accepted the deed to the park on August 12, 2012. And the park was officially opened to the public the following day, according to a Daily Inter Lake article.
When asked about the name of Volunteer Park, Margaret remarked:
“The name, Volunteer Park, really is more in reference to how things happen in Lakeside … It’s the bigger picture of what makes Lakeside tick.”
A Tribute To Lakeside Volunteers
An article in the Flathead Beacon noted that Bruce and Margaret “wanted to highlight the spirit of volunteerism that has been a part of the resort community since Day One. From the community library and food bank to the quick-response unit, community club and other nonprofit endeavors, Lakeside folks have always helped one another out.”
That volunteer spirit is embodied in the name, and also the residents of Lakeside. I live and work in Lakeside and I’m proud of my town. And I’m sure myself and my family are not the only ones who are grateful for the generosity of Bruce and Margaret for giving us all such a wonderful place to share the lake — and lake-side memories for years to come.