Mason County

Mason County, the Gem of the Hill Country and one of the most diverse counties in Texas, is located about 115 miles northwest of Austin. Come to Mason County and plan on spending some time because there is so much to see. The beautiful Llano River winds through the Hill Country with scenic bluffs and rapids. Deer, turkey, dove, quail and many other species of wildlife abound throughout the county.

Take the time to view our 932 square miles by traveling our major roads and back roads and taking pictures of the wildflowers, scenery and old homesteads built by the original German immigrants who settled in the county. Among the many visitor attractions is Fort Mason, organized as an Indian outpost; it also served as a posting to General Robert E. Lee.

Also located in Mason County is the famous Bat Cave, the home to millions of Mexican Freetail bats that can be observed during the summer.

Agriculture is the primary business in Mason County, although tourism and many small businesses and antique stores cater to locals and out-of-town visitors. The city of Mason has many beautiful and historic homes and other sites to visit and stay such as the many bed and breakfast spots available for families. Probably the most eye-catching area to visit is the Mason Square and County Courthouse with its beautiful pecan trees and large lawn area.

The Blue Topaz, the Texas state gem, is only found within the borders of Mason County. There are several ranches that allow topaz hunting on their property. Mason also has one of the oldest movie theaters in Texas, the

Odeon Theater, which has been in continuous operation since 1928.

Other available activities can be found at the golf course, tree-shaded parks, swimming pool and, of course, tennis, the sport where Mason High School students are the proud owners of 57 state titles.

Go by the M. Bevens Eckert Library and spend some time browsing through the Fred Gipson exhibit. Gibson, the author of “Old Yeller” and other books was a Mason County native.

Take the time to gear your lifestyle down and visit Mason County. If fishing, hunting, canoeing, golf or just plain relaxing is your game, we will gladly be your hosts. – County Judge Jerry Bearden