Polk Township

Polk Township is a peaceful, rural municipality located in the southwestern corner of Monroe County, Pennsylvania, where the Pocono Mountains begin to soften into the rolling hills of the Lehigh Valley. With its blend of forested ridges, open farmland, and historic hamlets, Polk offers a quiet, grounded sense of place rooted in Appalachian heritage.

🗺️ Geographic & Civic Snapshot

• Established: 1846, named after President James K. Polk
• Area: ~31.2 square miles (80.8 km²), mostly land
• Elevation: ~902 feet (275 m)
• Population: 7,473 (2020 Census)
• School District: Pleasant Valley School District

🏘️ Villages & Features

• Kresgeville: The civic and historical heart of the township, home to the first school (1825) and post office (1845)
• Jonas, Dottersville, and Gilbert (shared with Chestnuthill Township): Small hamlets with deep local roots
• Pohopoco Creek: Drains the township westward into the Lehigh River, shaping its natural boundaries
• Pohopoco Mountain: Forms the northern edge, offering scenic views and forested terrain

🏞️ Landscape & Recreation

• Natural Beauty: Rolling hills, dense forests, and open pastures define the landscape
• Outdoor Activities: Hiking, fishing, and hunting are popular, with access to nearby state parks and game lands
• Historic Sites: Includes the Kresgeville Covered Bridge, a local landmark reflecting 19th-century craftsmanship

🏠 Short-Term Rentals (STRs)

• Regulations: STRs are not permitted in R-1 residential zones
• Permitted Zones: Allowed in other zoning districts with a license and inspection

🌄 Regional Identity

Polk Township is a place where quiet resilience and natural heritage define daily life. It’s less commercialized than eastern Monroe County, offering a slower pace and stronger connection to land, legacy, and community. Its villages—especially Kresgeville—serve as cultural anchors, with local events and civic pride shaping its identity.