While German settlers may have arrived as early as 1846, the community of Mason grew around Fort Mason, which the government opened in 1851 on a site chosen by Lieutenant Colonel William J. Hardee. Experts debate if the fort's name paid honor to Lieutenant George T. Mason, who died during the Mexican War, or General Richard Barnes Mason, who died in 1850. Soldiers kept Kiowa, Lipan Apache, and Comanche tribes away from the area to make settlers feel safe. Explore the historic fort for yourself and learn more about its history.
James E. Ranck opened the second business in Mason and was instrumental in attracting others to the city. Along with Ben F. Gooch, Ranck purchased 5,000 acres and sold it to sharecroppers. The fort became instrumental during the Civil War as housing for prisoners of war. You will want to explore downtown Mason, which is typical of many Texas towns as the downtown business district surrounds the courthouse. While you are exploring the city of about 2,300 people, stop at Cooper's Pit Bar-B-Q for some Texas-style barbecue like folks have been doing since 1953. In the evening, head to Willow Creek Club and Café for Southern comfort food.
While in Mason, visit the Seaquist House. This mansion that was vacant for many decades is being remodeled, and it is open for tours. You will also want to see this area's wineries. If you enjoy hunting, check out the big game ranches in this area, including The Wildlife Ranch and Bar-A Hunting and Fishing Ranch.
Mason County Livestock Show – Watch young people show the animals that they have raised at this weeklong event in January at Fort Mason Park.
Roundup Festival and Rodeo- This one-day June festival features a parade through downtown Mason and a rodeo at night.
Mason Chamber Music Festival – This festival featuring orchestra music occurs at Heritage Park, Odeon Theater, and the First United Methodist Church in June.
Winterfisch – During this festival at the James River Crossing, you can learn to fish. Then, prepare your catch over a campfire or take it to a participating Mason restaurant for cooking.
South Llano River State Park near Junction is a fantastic place to go on a floating adventure. You can also kayak, canoe, and fish at this state park. There are over 27 miles of hiking trails, with many of them offering stunning views of the water. This is an ideal place to go stargazing, so book a campsite for a night or two.
Colorado Bend State Park near Bend, TX is a fantastic place for a camping adventure. Take the short hike to see the 70-foot-tall waterfall after a rainstorm. Rangers sometimes lead wild cave tours at this park.
Inks Lake State Park is an ideal spot for a picnic at the tables overlooking the lake. While no lifeguards are on duty, the lake is a great place to swim. Bass fishing is often excellent.
Stop at the Mason Public Library to see the outdoor statue of Old Yeller and Travis. This bronze statue pays tribute to the book's author Fred Gipson. Garland Weeks created the statue in 1959.
If you do not want to camp at the city park, there are several other options near Mason. Dos Rios RV Park is a fantastic option located at the confluence of the Llano and James rivers. If you love rock hunting, then head to Bar M Ranch Services to camp, where you may find blue and black topaz and quartz. Otherwise, you may want to consider heading to San Angelo campgrounds, about 100 miles away, where you will find San Angelo KOA Holiday, Concho Pearl RV Estate, and San Angelo State Park.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Mason, TX, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Mason?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Mason from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Mason?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.