Cooper Lake State Parks

Within 90 minutes of Dallas, Texas, Cooper Lake State Park offers two park units and plenty of space to roam and engage in all kinds of outdoor activities. From camping and swimming to hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and more, Cooper Lake State Park has it all.

On the water, visitors to the park can swim, boat, water-ski, and fish. There are several boat docks, fishing piers, and cleaning stations. Fishers in Texas do not need permits if fishing from the shore. The park also offers kayaks and paddleboards for rental, or canoes from the South Sulphur unit.

Bring your horse and camp at the South Sulphur Unit (bring proof of negative Coggins test), which also has a ten-and-a-half-mile trail that crosses nearly 600 acres of shaded forest and crosses hillsides and creek gulches. Some parts of the trail may be challenging. The park offers several equestrian campsites with trail access right from camp.

Just like other Texas state parks, Cooper Lake State Park does not allow pets inside any buildings. And for your pet’s safety and for the protection of local wildlife, dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet long at all times. If you’re hiking with your dog, you should always bring enough water for yourself and your pet. In the park, it’s always a good idea to bring waste bags, as they aren’t always available. And always be sure to clean up after yourself and your pet. Be respectful of posted rules and of other park visitors; never bring aggressive dogs or unvaccinated puppies, or allow your dog to be a nuisance to others.

Cooper Lake State Park is experiencing closures of some aspects of the park. The Sunset Cove/Eagle Point pier is closed until further notice. You may contact the park office directly to inquire about closed facilities and current status. If you’re in the Dallas area and looking to get away with your family or your pets, look no further than Cooper Lake State Park.