Lake Cushman

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Lake Cushman
Image:LakeCushman.JPG Stumps along the eastern shore. The people in the lower right corner provide a sense of scale
Location	Mason County, Washington
Lake type	reservoir
Primary sources	Skokomish River
Primary outflows	Skokomish River
Basin countries	United States
Surface area	4,010 acre (16 km²)
Settlements	Lake Cushman

Lake Cushman is a 4,010 acre (16 km²) lake on the north fork of the Skokomish River in Mason County, Washington. The lake is maintained by Cushman Dam No. 1 providing electrical power to the Tacoma Power system. Though slightly colder than out-of-state lakes, Lake Cushman's temperature is relatively normal for Washington lakes. It is fed by the Skokomish River which is a glacial runoff river.

As a popular retreat for hiking, fishing, boating and kayaking, Lake Cushman's shoreline is dotted with resorts and rental cabins. The lake is notable for its beautiful crystal clear blue water and the huge round rocks surrounding it, as well as thick stands of hemlock, fir and cedar trees.

Lake Cushman was named in honor of Orrington Cushman, who served as interpreter for Governor Isaac Stevens during the Treaty of Point Elliott negotiations with Puget Sound Indians in 1854.^[1]

There is also a town near Lake Cushman known as Lake Cushman, Washington, or simply Cushman, Washington. Still unincorporated, it is the fastest growing community in Mason County, Washington.