Nestled on the east side of Anderson Island, the enchanting Josephine Lake stands as a serene residential haven. Anderson Island, situated in the vast expanse of Puget Sound, is adorned with a myriad of waterways and twists. Rich with history, both Anderson Island and the beloved Josephine Lake’s past have been meticulously chronicled by the Anderson Island Historical Society. Commander Charles Wilkes named the island in honor of the Hudson’s Bay Company’s renowned head trader, Alexander Caulfield Anderson, in 1841. Initially known as Fisgard Island and Wallace Island, the island eventually settled on its current moniker, Anderson Island. Meanwhile, Josephine Lake exudes its charm, enveloped by lakeside abodes amidst verdant forests. The lake was lovingly named by Charles Hopkins in 1906, who dedicated it to his wife and daughter, both named Josephine. Josephine Lake was known as “Dahl Lake” prior to this charming gesture, in honor of the pioneering Dahl family who arrived on the island in 1889. Josephine Lake’s inviting shores boast a harmonious blend of residential dwellings and lush woodlands. Residing under the alias “Lake Josephine,” this idyllic retreat hosts many lots within the Riviera Homeowners Association, fondly known as the Riviera Community Club. Opportunities abound for interested buyers, whether seeking developed properties or aspiring to construct their dream abode on a vacant parcel. Near Josephine Lake, the Riviera Community Club extends its embrace to Florence Lake and Pine Lake, with Florence Lake seamlessly feeding into Josephine Lake during elevated water levels. The equilibrium of Josephine Lake’s water levels is maintained through a control structure erected in the mid-1900s at the lake’s southern outlet. These three interconnected lakes – Josephine, Florence, and Pine – cater to residents and guests seeking various aquatic activities. Enthusiastic anglers revel in the tranquil waters of Josephine Lake and Pine Lake, stocked annually with rainbow trout. Members of the Riviera Community Club enjoy complimentary fishing privileges at Josephine Lake, while day visitors may partake in angling by paying a nominal fee. Pine Lake, on the other hand, is reserved for novice anglers and children aged 12 and below, offering them an opportunity to snag the stocked rainbow trout. Designated as a serene water body, Josephine Lake invites the use of canoes, kayaks, and boats equipped with small electric motors. Despite prohibiting water skiing and jet skiing activities, Lake Josephine offers a peaceful sanctuary, while Florence Lake caters to these more spirited aquatic pursuits as a public lake. The Riviera Community Club provides a private boat launch at Florence Lake for the convenience of its members. Indulging in the panoramic vistas, lakeside dining options, a leisurely round of golf, or invigorating swims are just a few ways residents and visitors alike can bask in the allure of Josephine Lake.; established in 1975, the Anderson Island Historical Society finds its home west of Josephine Lake at Johnson Farm. Originally founded by John Oscar Johnson and his wife Alma Marie, Johnson Farm now serves as a museum dedicated to preserving artifacts and the rich historical legacy of Anderson Island. A nature trail winds through the southern expanse of Johnson Farm, meandering amidst enchanting forests and marshy landscapes. Visitors are invited to explore the farmhouse and barns, gaining insight into life on Anderson Island before the 1940s. Johnson Farm plays host to a myriad of events that are open to the public, fostering a deep appreciation for the island’s heritage. One need not be a resident of Josephine Lake to relish in its offerings, with vacation rental homes catering to those seeking a reprieve. The Riviera Community Club extends its hospitality through an RV park and campground, beckoning members and guests to immerse themselves in the tranquil island ambiance. Adorned with a calmness that offers respite from the urban bustle, the island beckons visitors to shed their worries. A ferry service shuttles passengers between Anderson Island and the dock in Steilacoom, Washington. Steilacoom emerges from Anderson Island as a gateway to exhilarating day trips. Seekers of metropolitan allure can journey north to Seattle, partaking in a vibrant tapestry of art galleries, museums, theatrical performances, and culinary delights. Iconic landmarks such as the Space Needle, erected in 1962 for the World’s Fair, offer breathtaking views from its observation deck perched 520 feet above Seattle. The daring can make a separate day excursion to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. Spanning over 1.3 million acres, the national forest sits southeast of Anderson Island. Mount Rainier Forest Reserve and National Park stand northeast, a Gifford Pinchot National Forest segment. Adventurous souls may set their sights on scaling the 14,410 feet of Mount Rainier, enjoying a majestic panorama that encompasses Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, Mount Baker, and Glacier Peaks. On the western frontier of Anderson Island lies the sprawling Olympic National Park, an expansive sanctuary boasting over 922,000 acres where visitors can hike, picnic, camp, or simply unwind on the sandy shores. Winter brings with it the joys of cross-country skiing. Josephine Lake is an alluring destination for a vacation retreat or a permanent abode. When the gorgeous sunsets paint the skies above lakefront terraces, locals and guests alike find comfort in letting their troubles slip away into the calm waters of Lake Josephine.