Cities and Towns in Mason County, Washington

Founded in 1854, Mason County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Mason County was formed from King County. The city of Shelton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Mason County has a population of 65,726 and area of 959 square miles (2,484 km²).

List of all cities in Mason County, WA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Allyn, WA	98524	360/564
Belfair, WA	98528	360/564
Cushman Dam, WA	98548	360/564
Eldon, WA	98555	360/564
Grapeview, WA	98546	360/564
Harstine, WA	98584	360/564
Hoodsport, WA	98548	360/564
Kamilche, WA	98584	360/564
Lilliwaup, WA	98555	360/564
Matlock, WA	98560	360/564
Shelton, WA	98584	360/564
Skok, WA	98584	360/564
Skokomish, WA	98584	360/564
Skokomish Nation, WA	98584	360/564
Tahuya, WA	98588	360/564
Union, WA	98592	360/564

Major Cities and Towns in Mason County, Washington

Mason County is located in the Puget Sound region of Washington, bordered by the Olympic Mountains to the west and the Hood Canal to the east. Known for its beautiful waterfronts, forests, and recreational opportunities, Mason County is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The county has a rich history, including significant Native American influence, early logging industries, and later development tied to tourism and agriculture. Below are the major cities and towns in Mason County:

Shelton

Area

• 6.88 square miles

Population

• Approximately 10,000

Zip Codes

• 98584

Latitude and Longitude

• Latitude: 47.2105° N
• Longitude: 123.1007° W

City Location and History

Shelton is the county seat of Mason County and is located at the southern end of the Hood Canal. The town was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Skokomish people. European settlers arrived in the 1850s, and Shelton became a significant center for the timber industry, particularly for sawmills, logging, and later pulp mills. The city’s economy remained strongly tied to logging throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Shelton was incorporated in 1889, and today, while the timber industry remains important, the city also serves as a service hub for the surrounding communities. Shelton’s proximity to both water and mountains gives it a unique location for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and water sports. The town has a rich cultural heritage with several historic buildings and a growing arts and entertainment scene.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Shelton is served by the Shelton School District, which includes Shelton High School, known for its academic and athletic programs. Other schools include Olympic Middle School and several elementary schools. Shelton’s landmarks include the historic Shelton Railroad Depot, which is now a museum showcasing the town’s early industrial history. The Mason County Historical Society Museum offers exhibits related to Shelton’s logging past, Native American history, and the region’s natural history. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Olympic National Forest for hiking and camping or enjoy the Hood Canal for boating and fishing. Shelton also has the Shelton Civic Center, which hosts various cultural events, performances, and community gatherings. The nearby Harstine Island and its parks offer additional recreational opportunities, making Shelton a base for exploration of Mason County’s natural beauty.

Allyn

Area

• 1.57 square miles

Population

• Approximately 2,200

Zip Codes

• 98524

Latitude and Longitude

• Latitude: 47.3950° N
• Longitude: 122.9233° W

City Location and History

Allyn is located on the eastern shore of Case Inlet, a branch of the Puget Sound, in the southern part of Mason County. The area was originally inhabited by the Skokomish and other Native American tribes who relied on the waters for fishing and gathering resources. European settlers began arriving in the mid-1800s, and Allyn quickly became a center for logging and fishing industries. Over the years, it developed as a small, rural community with a focus on agriculture, waterfront activities, and tourism. The town’s waterfront location has made it a popular destination for those seeking outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and birdwatching. Although Allyn was never formally incorporated, it remains an important part of the region, known for its scenic views and close-knit community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Allyn is part of the Shelton School District, with children attending schools in the nearby Shelton area. Though it lacks a large school system of its own, local students are integrated into regional education programs. Key landmarks in Allyn include the Allyn Waterfront Park, a popular spot for picnicking, fishing, and enjoying views of the Puget Sound. The nearby Twanoh State Park offers hiking trails, a sandy beach, and a boat launch, making it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Allyn’s proximity to the Hood Canal makes it an excellent destination for water sports such as kayaking, boating, and fishing. Allyn also has the Allyn Community Club, which organizes local events and serves as a gathering space for the community. The area’s rural charm, along with its waterfront access, makes it a serene escape for those looking to enjoy nature and tranquility.

Belfair

Area

• 1.77 square miles

Population

• Approximately 5,400

Zip Codes

• 98528

Latitude and Longitude

• Latitude: 47.4641° N
• Longitude: 122.8667° W

City Location and History

Belfair is located at the southern tip of Hood Canal, a stunning inlet of the Puget Sound, and has a history tied to early European settlement and maritime activity. Originally part of the land of the Skokomish Tribe, Belfair grew in the late 19th century as a small settlement, primarily based around the timber industry, agriculture, and fishing. The town was officially incorporated in 1945 and has since become an important community within Mason County. Belfair’s scenic location and access to water and forests make it a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. As the population has grown, Belfair has developed into a hub for both residents and visitors, offering a range of services and amenities while retaining its rural charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Belfair is served by the North Mason School District, which includes North Mason High School, Belfair Elementary, and several other schools in the region. The district is known for its commitment to community involvement and student achievement. Belfair’s landmarks include Belfair State Park, which offers opportunities for boating, camping, and hiking along the shores of Hood Canal. Nearby, the Twanoh State Park is another popular destination for outdoor recreation, offering hiking trails and a scenic beach. Belfair is also home to the historic Belfair Bridge, which spans the Skokomish River and connects the town to the surrounding areas. The town is known for its quaint shops, local restaurants, and access to outdoor activities, such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking in the nearby forests and waterways.

Union

Area

• 1.08 square miles

Population

• Approximately 700

Zip Codes

• 98592

Latitude and Longitude

• Latitude: 47.3158° N
• Longitude: 123.1132° W

City Location and History

Union is located at the northern tip of Hood Canal and is known for its scenic beauty and quiet, rural atmosphere. The town was originally inhabited by the Skokomish Tribe, who relied on the waters for fishing and hunting. European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, and Union became a small waterfront settlement. In the early 20th century, Union gained prominence as a resort community, attracting visitors to its stunning waterfront and temperate climate. Incorporated in 1949, the town has remained a peaceful, residential community that draws people looking for a slower pace of life while still offering access to nearby recreational opportunities. Union is often considered a hidden gem in Mason County, offering access to both natural beauty and outdoor activities, from fishing to hiking.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Union is part of the Shelton School District, with students attending schools in Shelton and nearby areas. Notable landmarks in Union include the Alderbrook Resort & Spa, a waterfront retreat that has been a popular getaway for decades, offering luxurious accommodations, a marina, and spa services. The nearby Hood Canal is a major attraction for visitors, offering a variety of water sports, including boating, kayaking, and fishing. Union is also close to the Olympic National Forest, providing ample opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the area’s rich natural history. The Union community is known for its strong ties to nature, with several local parks and trails that invite residents and visitors to explore the surrounding wilderness.

Grapeview

Area

• 2.13 square miles

Population

• Approximately 800

Zip Codes

• 98546

Latitude and Longitude

• Latitude: 47.2690° N
• Longitude: 123.1200° W

City Location and History

Grapeview is a small community located along the shores of Case Inlet in the southern part of Mason County. The area was originally inhabited by the Skokomish Tribe, who used the inlet for fishing and gathering resources. European settlers arrived in the 1850s, and the community developed around fishing, agriculture, and later, timber. Grapeview grew gradually as a rural settlement, with a focus on farming and timber industries. The town’s name derives from the many grapevines that grew in the region, and it became a quiet, residential area by the mid-20th century. Today, Grapeview is known for its serene waterfront properties and rural charm, offering residents and visitors a peaceful escape with scenic views and access to outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Grapeview is served by the Grapeview School District, which includes Grapeview School, offering K-8 education to local students. Major landmarks in Grapeview include the Case Inlet, which is popular for fishing, boating, and water sports. The town is also near the Hood Canal, which provides additional recreational opportunities such as kayaking, fishing, and hiking. Grapeview is a gateway to exploring the nearby Olympic National Forest, which offers hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic vistas. The small, rural community is known for its agricultural roots, and visitors can explore the local farms and enjoy the quiet, rural atmosphere. Grapeview is also known for its strong community spirit, with local events and activities that bring people together year-round.