News Summary
William R. Mason Regional Park in Irvine, California, spans 345 acres and features trails, a picturesque lake, and wildlife. Renowned for its outdoor amenities, including picnic shelters and fitness courses, this park is a cherished destination for families, students, and nature enthusiasts. Its proximity to UC Irvine adds to its appeal, offering a serene escape for visitors. The park also hosts unique events, such as remote-controlled yacht races, making it a vibrant community space for recreation and relaxation.
Irvine, California – William R. Mason Regional Park, a prime outdoor recreation destination, spans 345 acres and offers a variety of amenities for residents and visitors alike. The park is located at 18712 University Drive and features 3 miles of paved biking and hiking trails suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.
At the heart of the park lies a picturesque 9-acre lake that attracts a diverse array of birdlife, creating a serene environment for nature lovers. The park is not only home to recreational facilities but also to wildlife such as quail, rabbits, and the occasional roadrunner, enhancing its appeal as a nature-centered space. About 123 acres of William R. Mason Regional Park are designated wilderness, providing several trails for exploration and discovery.
Visitors to the park can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including playgrounds for children, a fitness course for physical activity, an amphitheater, and ball fields. The park also has dedicated areas for bird watching, with easily accessible spots to observe various species. Dogs are permitted on leashes, making it a pet-friendly site for families and dog owners. For those looking to host events, the park features six covered picnic shelters available for rental that include barbecue areas and running water.
William R. Mason Regional Park has designated park hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily during the fall and winter months, and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. during spring and summer. Parking fees are $3 per vehicle on weekdays, rising to $5 on weekends. This reasonably priced accessibility encourages a diverse range of visitors, including local residents and families enjoying outdoor activities together.
The park’s proximity to UC Irvine adds to its allure, providing a refreshing escape for students and faculty members who seek outdoor recreation. Among the recreational activities recommended by park officials is the opportunity to attend remote-controlled yacht races. These events are hosted by the Orange County Model Sailing Club on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, further engaging visitors to the park.
Local resident John Justeson exemplifies the community’s connection to the park through his regular visits with his dog. He expresses appreciation for the scenic beauty found in the park, particularly the lakes populated by swans and turtles. Such interactions with nature underscore the park’s role as a gathering place for families and individuals seeking tranquility and leisure.
In summary, William R. Mason Regional Park not only serves as a significant green space within Irvine but also functions as a vital resource for community well-being and outdoor enjoyment. Its combination of recreational options, natural beauty, and wildlife encounters establishes it as a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike. For more information, visitors are encouraged to check the official park website at ocparks.com/masonpark.
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Additional Resources
- OC Register: William R. Mason Regional Park
- Irvine Standard: 10,000 Steps at Mason Regional Park
- LA Times: White Pelicans Fly Free in Irvine
- OC Register: Persian New Year Celebration at Mason Park
- LA Times: Stars and Stripes Honored at OC Flag Day Celebration
- Wikipedia: Irvine, California
- Google Search: William R. Mason Regional Park
- Google Scholar: William R. Mason Regional Park
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Irvine
- Google News: William R. Mason Regional Park
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
