this area. The Mason Tract originated from acceptance of a 1500-acre gift from the George Mason family in 1954. Over time, additional acreage has been acquired from the US Forest Service and private individuals through land exchanges. The Mason gift was contingent the area be used as a permanent game preserve, no part shall ever be sold or developed [i.e. natural gas fracking] by the state, and no camping be allowed in the area for 25 years. The State of Michigan has continued the no-camping restriction in the Mason Tract. The only camping allowed is within Canoe Harbor State Forest Campground, located at the north end of the Tract on the Au Sable River. The Mason Tract offers quality fishing, hunting, and canoeing opportunities. The Mason Tract is home to the pristine Mason Chapel. The Mason Family constructed the Chapel in 1960 to provide fishermen with a place of reverence and has developed into a popular tourist attraction. The Mason Tract also contains the Mason Tract Pathway, which is used for hiking and cross-country skiing. Mountain biking on the Mason Tract Pathway is prohibited via a Director’s Order." See also Ogemaw Hills Pathway References External links Michigan Department of Natural Resources: Au Sable State Forest webpage Regional geography, geology and ecology of the area Google Images search for Michigan State Forests maps Michigan state forests National Natural Landmarks in Michigan Protected areas of Crawford County, Michigan Protected areas of Oscoda County, Michigan Protected areas of Roscommon County, Michigan Bogs of the United States Important Bird Areas of Michigan