William R. Mason Regional Park Irvine
A 339-acre oasis in Irvine with a 9-acre lake, playgrounds, trails, and a wilderness area for picnics and recreation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
William R. Mason Regional Park Irvine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 339-acre oasis in Irvine with a 9-acre lake, playgrounds, trails, and a wilderness area for picnics and recreation.
"A serene 345-acre gem in the heart of Irvine, perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat."
🚗 Parking Fees
Weekday parking is $3, weekends are $5. Plan accordingly!
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially on sunny days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
9-Acre Lake
Central lake area
A picturesque spot for model sailboats, wildlife viewing, and tranquil picnics.
Paved Trails
Circumferential and wilderness areas
Miles of paved trails perfect for walking, biking, or scootering with scenic views.
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Playgrounds
Multiple locations
Kid-friendly play structures offer fun for children of various ages.
Wilderness Area
123-acre natural area
Explore a tranquil 123-acre natural space for quiet walks and observing local flora and fauna.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Fees & Hours
Embrace the Outdoors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
Weekday parking is $3, weekends are $5. Plan accordingly!
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially on sunny days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it great for pet owners.
⛵ Model Sailboats
Catch the Orange County Model Sailing Club on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
Weekday parking is $3, weekends are $5. Plan accordingly!
☀️ Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially on sunny days.
🐶 Dog-Friendly
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it great for pet owners.
⛵ Model Sailboats
Catch the Orange County Model Sailing Club on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
🦋 Butterfly Habitat
Look for the butterfly habitat for a touch of natural beauty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise William R. Mason Regional Park for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and beautiful lake views, making it a breath-taking and relaxing escape. It's highly recommended for families, dog owners, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in Irvine. While parking fees are noted, they are considered reasonable for the quality of the experience.
"The park was extremely clean and very spacious and very breath-taking. The views were extremely nice and the people around were extremely respectful of my space. I had a really great time here with my family. I was able to picnic and walk my dogs all around the park. And across the lakes and over the bridge is because the park is so spacious and so nice. I had a great time in the air. Was extremely fresh and I will definitely come back here again even though you have to pay for parking. But that ISO k because parking is extremely cheap. I definitely recommend anyone who is just even passing by 2 just drop by here. Just even for 1 hour or 2 because this is. A great place and a great place to relax and take a breath from all the hard work."
R J
"I truly enjoy visiting William R Mason Regional Park and spending quality time here with my children. It’s always clean, surrounded by lush greenery, and features a beautiful pond where turtles make their home. The park has great playgrounds for kids and offers a wonderful setting for celebrating birthdays. My only small drawback is the $5 entrance fee."
Olena Stoianovska
"We absolutely loved this park! We were in the area for a show and stopped here beforehand. It was a beautiful day to walk around, enjoying the lake and nature. Perfect place for taking pictures, having a picnic, playing outdoor games, going for a walk/jog, or just napping in the grass. There are loads of turtle, geese, ducks, and also some frogs. (Please be mindful not to feed them or leave trash, it really isn't good for them.)
There is a small entry fee. The park is wonderfully maintained and we spent a good few hours there, just enjoying the afternoon. I do recommend wearing sunscreen or a hat on sunny days."
Maika Rothfuss
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located at 18712 University Dr, Irvine, CA. It's easily accessible by car and has multiple parking lots.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed, Irvine generally has good public transit options. Check local transit schedules for routes serving the University Drive area.
The park features 3 miles of paved trails that circle the lake and extend into the wilderness area, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Yes, the paved trails are suitable for e-bikes, and many visitors enjoy riding them through the park.
Yes, the park has multiple parking lots, including Lot E which is often used for events.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Parking fees are $3 per vehicle on weekdays and $5 on weekends.
The park is open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM during Spring-Summer and 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM during Fall-Winter.
While the entrance may close, some visitors have reported leaving after the official closing time without issue. However, it's best to plan your visit within operating hours.
Reservations are not typically required for general park entry, but may be needed for specific events or picnic shelter rentals.
The pumpkin patch is free in September but requires reservations and a $20 per person fee on October weekends.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy picnics, walking, biking, hiking, visiting playgrounds, watching model sailboats, and exploring the wilderness area. +1
Absolutely! It features playgrounds, picnic areas, and plenty of open space for kids to play.
Yes, dogs are permitted on-leash throughout the park.
Yes, clean and well-maintained restrooms are available throughout the park.
Visitors often spot turtles, geese, ducks, and frogs around the lake.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park has numerous shaded picnic spots with tables and barbecue grills, perfect for bringing your own food.
Yes, it's an ideal spot for picnics with ample space and facilities.
There are no restaurants within the park itself, but many dining options are available in the surrounding Irvine area.
Yes, picnic shelters can be reserved for parties and gatherings.
It's best not to feed the wildlife, as it can be harmful to them.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake, tree-lined trails, and the wilderness area offer beautiful backdrops for photography.
Yes, with its lake, diverse plant life, and wildlife, it's a great location for nature photographers.
Watching the model sailboats on the lake or spotting butterflies in the habitat can make for unique photos.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with park management or local regulations before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to take advantage of the numerous picnic areas with tables and grills. The park's spaciousness means there's plenty of room for games and relaxation. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as many areas are open and sunny.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
+1 The Lake Loop trail provides a scenic route around the 9-acre lake, ideal for a refreshing hike or jog. Keep an eye out for local birds, butterflies, and other small creatures. The park's diverse landscape, from open fields to wooded areas, provides a rich environment for nature lovers.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wilderness Area
+1While the wilderness area is less developed, it's still accessible via marked trails. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, and remember to stay on designated paths to minimize your impact. The tranquility of this area makes it a favorite for nature enthusiasts and photographers looking for a more secluded experience.
It's important to note that while the park is generally safe, the wilderness area can be less populated. It's always a good idea to let someone know your plans if you intend to spend significant time exploring this section. The fresh air and natural beauty make it a worthwhile adventure for any visitor.
Model Sailboats and Lake Activities
+1Beyond the model sailboats, the lake offers a serene environment for picnics and leisurely strolls along its perimeter. The lake loop trail is a popular choice for walkers and bikers, providing lovely views of the water and surrounding greenery. It's a great place to relax, enjoy the fresh air, and observe the local waterfowl like ducks and geese.
While swimming is not permitted in the lake, its visual appeal and the activity of the sailing club make it a charming feature of the park. It adds a unique element to the park's offerings, blending natural beauty with community hobbies.
Family Fun and Playgrounds
Beyond the playgrounds, the park's spaciousness and amenities like picnic tables and barbecue grills make it ideal for family gatherings and birthday celebrations.
Parents often praise the park for its cleanliness and the overall pleasant atmosphere, making it a reliable choice for a fun-filled family outing.
Social
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