LOWELL JOHNSON PARK

About Lowell Johnson Park and Florence Lake

Tucked away on Anderson Island — one of Puget Sound's most unhurried corners — Lowell Johnson Park offers something increasingly rare: a genuine escape. Reached only by ferry from the historic waterfront town of Steilacoom, this community park sits at the edge of Florence Lake, a glacially carved freshwater gem surrounded by dense Pacific Northwest forest. The moment the ferry pulls away from the mainland and the tree line of Anderson Island comes into view, you'll feel the pace of ordinary life begin to ease.

The Setting and Landscape

Florence Lake sits in a shallow basin shaped over thousands of years by glacial movement, and the landscape around it reflects that ancient drama. Towering conifers and lush understory vegetation crowd the shoreline, their reflections shimmering on the surface of the water. Bald eagles circle overhead with casual authority, and if you're patient and quiet, you may spot river otters slipping through the reeds near the bank. Wildflowers bloom along the trails in spring, and come fall, the surrounding forest ignites in amber and gold. Even in the middle of summer, there's a stillness here that feels earned — perhaps because getting to Anderson Island requires genuine intention.

Swimming in Florence Lake

The water in Florence Lake is clear and inviting, with the kind of freshwater quality you'd expect from a glacially formed lake fed by a forested watershed. On warm summer afternoons, the surface warms to a comfortable temperature, making it ideal for casual swimming, floating, and wading. The lake's natural edges mean you won't find groomed sandy beaches, but the organic shoreline — stones, soft sediment, and fringing vegetation — is part of what gives this place its wild, unmanicured character. This is an unofficial swimming site, so come prepared: there are no lifeguards on duty, and you swim at your own discretion. Children and less confident swimmers should be supervised closely.

Practical Visit Information

Lowell Johnson Park is located at the corner of 114th Avenue and Guthrie Road on Anderson Island. Access is free — there is no entry fee. The park provides restrooms and changing areas, as well as picnic tables for a post-swim lunch or a lakeside afternoon with family. Be aware that there is no food or drinking water available at the park, so pack everything you'll need before boarding the ferry. The terrain in the park is somewhat uneven, and cyclists making the trip from the ferry landing should expect a moderately steep hill. The best time to visit for swimming is June through September, when warm weather and long days make the lake most inviting.

Plan Your Visit

To reach Anderson Island, take the Pierce County ferry from Steilacoom, a charming historic town roughly 10 miles southwest of Tacoma. Nearby communities including Lakewood offer additional dining, lodging, and supply options before you make the crossing. Give yourself a full day if you can — Anderson Island rewards those who linger. Pack a picnic, bring layers for the ferry crossing, and let Florence Lake do the rest.