William R. Mason Regional Park

A variety of recreational opportunities are offered at William R. Mason Regional Park. Picnic areas are dispersed among the meandering hiking, jogging and bicycling trails. Three sand volleyball courts and a frisbee golf course are available for the athletically inclined. Mason Park also features an amphitheater designed for recreational and interpretive programs. For the younger set, there is a fully equipped tot lot.

History

William R. Mason Park was originally part of Rancho San Joaquin. This land was granted to Jose Sepulveda in 1842 by the Mexican Governor Alvarado. The 48,803 acre rancho was acquired by Irvine, Flint, Bixby and Company in 1864. The firm purchased an additional 59,381 acres from the Rancho Lomas de Santiago and a portion from the adjoining Rancho Santiago de Santa Anal In 1876, James Irvine Sr. bought out his partners to become sole owner of the vast ranch, over 100,000 acres. The Irvine Company donated 345 acres for this park site. Reflecting nearby U.C. Irvine, the park was originally named University Park. The Board of Supervisors changed the name in recognition of William R. Mason, who served as president of the Irvine Company from 1966 until his untimely death in 1973.

Phase I of the park consisted of 45 acres and was opened to the public in 1973. Phase II development, a total of 50 acres, was completed in 1978 and included the nine-acre lake. Reclaimed water is used to fill the lake and irrigate the park turf. Park visitors are reminded that bodily contact with the lake is restricted. Phase l l l, completed in 1988, consists of 3 miles of hiking and bike trails through the park's eastern wilderness section. Future plans for the acquisition of Sand Canyon Reservoir would increase the park size to 440 acres.

Please:

• A speed limit of 10 mph is enforced at all times.
• Anglers must comply with State Fish and Game codes, including the possession of a vlaid fishing license for all those age 16 and over.
• Fires are permitted only in fireplaces and approved camp stoves.
• Vehicle operation is limited to paved roadways and parking areas. No vehicles allowed on trails.
• Swimming or wading is not permitted in the lake.
• Please put all garbage and litter in trash receptacles

Let no one who follows regret you were here.

Entrance Information

Operating Hours:
November 1 to March 31, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
April 1 to October 31, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Parking Fees:

*Pro-rated to $9.00 and $2.25 repectively

Groups:
All groups of 50 or more must obtain a group permit at least 15 days in advance. Forms are available from the park office. Reservations will be accepted at group shelters only; no electricity provided.