How much does camping cost at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Camping fees at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur range from $2-$5/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur first-come first-served or reservation?

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur is open No specific details provided regarding open and closed seasons.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Yes, Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Fire policies at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur: Fire pits are available at campsites. Visitors must bring their own wood.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Popular activities at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

4.49

194 reviews

1690 FM 3505, SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas, 75482, United States

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Hiking Camping Texas

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

509 ft

Price

$2 - $5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

No specific details ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowersWiFi

Book on Texas State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

509 ft

Price

$2 - $5/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

No specific details ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowersWiFi

Book on Texas State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

$2.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsites with Electricity (50 Amp | South Sulphur Unit) People per Site: 8 Number of Sites: 42 Located in Bright Star loop. Some sites are back-in,...

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve America

Provider

9039455256

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

1690 FM 3505, SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas, 75482, United States

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

1690 FM 3505, SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas, 75482, United States

Nearby places

Sulphur Springs (approximately 10 miles), Commerce (approximately 18 miles), Cooper (approximately 10 miles), Paris (approximately 40 miles).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Sulphur Springs, approximately 10 miles away. Firewood vending machines are available at the campground headquarters.

Driving directionsFrom Dallas: Take I-30 East to Exit 122 in Sulphur Springs. Go North on SH 19 for 10 miles. Then West on State Highway 71 for 4 miles. Take FM 3505 North for 1 mile. From Commerce: Travel East on State Highway 11 for 7 miles, then north for 4.2 miles on FM 2653. Continue on State Highway 71 for 7.5 miles, then North for 1 mile on FM 3505 to the park entrance. From Cooper: Travel East for 1 mile on State Highway 154, then South on FM 1529 for 5 miles (cross the lake dam) to State Highway 19, then South on Highway 19, then West on Highway 71 for 4 miles to FM 3505, then North for 1 mile to park entrance. From Paris: Take SH 19/24 towards Cooper. Go South on SH 19 towards Sulphur Springs. Go West on FM 71, then North on FM 3505 to park entrance.

Roads to the campground are paved and generally accessible year-round. No indications of seasonal closures or challenging terrain were mentioned.

Weather at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

Current alert: Fishing piers and some trails have damage, with no current repairs mentioned.

Best Time to Camp at Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

Spring is the sweet spot here. March through May brings daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-80s and cool nights in the 40s to 60s, with wildflowers along the trails and active fishing. Summer gets humid and buggy. Chiggers are aggressive enough that reviewers recommend showering immediately after walking around. Winter offers crisp, dry days and clear nights, though the lake is less inviting. Fall brings cooler temperatures and golden light, but spring remains the most comfortable season for hiking, biking, and boating without the heat or the bugs.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Described as the 'sweet spot' with wildflowers, cool nights and active fishing—top season.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: No specific details provided regarding open and closed seasons.

About Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur sits along the eastern shore of Cooper Lake, a reservoir built in the 1990s in the East Texas Piney Woods. The park offers tent sites, RV hookups, primitive camping, screened shelters, and cabins, with fees ranging from $2 to $5 per night. Sites are generally large and well-spaced, though cell service is spotty and chiggers are a persistent complaint in warmer months.

The park offers diverse camping options, including primitive camping, RV sites, tent sites, group sites, and cabins.

Weather and SeasonsSpring is the sweet spot here. March through May brings daytime highs in the mid-60s to mid-80s and cool nights in the 40s to 60s, with wildflowers along the trails and active fishing. Summer gets humid and buggy. Chiggers are aggressive enough that reviewers recommend showering immediately after walking around. Winter offers crisp, dry days and clear nights, though the lake is less inviting. Fall brings cooler temperatures and golden light, but spring remains the most comfortable season for hiking, biking, and boating without the heat or the bugs.

ElevationElevation details are not provided for this campground.

Natural Features and SceneryRolling hills with steeper slopes in the South Sulphur Unit, offering spectacular views of Cooper Lake. Shaded forests covering over 600 acres, panoramic lake vistas, and forested trails.[3][5][6]

Geological RegionNestled in the heart of Texas Region 6, Cooper Lake State Park showcases the distinctive beauty of East Texas's Piney Woods. This gently rolling landscape, carved by ancient waterways and blanketed in lush forests, represents a unique ecosystem where southern pines mingle with hardwood bottomlands. The flat to gently undulating terrain makes exploration accessible to all skill levels, while Cooper Lake itself – a massive reservoir created in the 1990s – adds a dramatic aquatic element to this forested paradise.

Scenic ViewsThe campground provides views of Cooper Lake and surrounding woodlands. Cabins offer scenic lake views and sunrises/sunsets are particularly praised.

Lodging & AccommodationsCabins and screened shelters are available. Cabins are described as clean and cozy with amenities like grills and fire rings. "Cabin 1 is the best," according to one user.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive programs are available; visitors are advised to check with the park for schedules.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.

Check-out

Not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources.

Stay Limit

Maximum of 8 people permitted per campsite. Duration limits not explicitly mentioned.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people permitted per campsite.

Groups

Group camping is supported with facilities like a large smoker at the group pavilion.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spacious and spread out, with good privacy in most areas. Some loops sit closer to the lake. Tent areas have tighter spacing than RV sites, but still offer reasonable separation.

Reservation PlatformsVisitors are encouraged to check with the park directly via phone for reservation details. Online booking may be available, although not explicitly stated.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly mentioned; however, it is possible walk-ins might be accepted based on some user reviews mentioning self-check-in systems.

Cancellation PolicyIf plans change, visitors are encouraged to modify or cancel their reservation as soon as possible.

AccessibilityAccessible cabins and trails available for visitors with disabilities. User Julie Serna-Hendricks confirmed accessibility for disabled guests.

Site SizeSites are large and can accommodate RVs, tents, and group camping.

PrivacySites are generally well-spaced, providing privacy, though some tent areas are closer together.

Recommended SitesFor privacy and scenic views, Oak Grove sites are preferred. Cabin 1 and 3 are highlighted for lakefront views.

Best CampsitesBright Star loop (42 sites with 50 amp electricity, some pull-through and ADA accessible); Deer Haven loop (31 sites with 30 amp electricity, some pull-through and ADA accessible); Buggy Whip Equestrian Camping Area. No specific camper-recommended sites from reviews.[1][7]

Need help booking Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur offers a variety of amenities including basketball and volleyball courts, restrooms, hot showers, a dump station, fishing facilities, firewood, and public WiFi. "This park has restrooms that are clean and close," as noted by user Dee Reyes. The hot showers are highlighted for their good pressure and warmth by users like Alicia Moore. Firewood is available through a vending machine, as confirmed by user Mahailey Oliver. Some reviewers noted maintenance issues, such as collapsed wooden walkways and damage to piers.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

WiFi

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities include hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The park also has designated trails for biking and horseback riding.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mentioned poison ivy, chiggers, biting flies, and roaches as common issues. Wildlife such as raccoons and armadillos can be disruptive at night.

Fire PolicyFire pits are available at campsites. Visitors must bring their own wood.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services include Sulphur Springs for hospitals and police stations, approximately 10 miles away. The park itself has a ranger station available for emergencies.

Trash & RecyclingTrash cans are available throughout the park, including near campsites and day-use areas.

Water FeaturesCooper Lake is the main water feature. Swimming areas, fishing piers, and boat ramps are offered.

Camp HostPark staff are described as friendly and helpful by multiple reviewers.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.5

194 reviews

Recommended

Cooper Lake State Park South Sulphur is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, users describe the park as clean, family-friendly, and rich in amenities. While most reviews are positive, issues like maintenance and bugs are noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 194 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 194 reviews.

Site 36Loved
Site 36 in Bright Star Loop: Well-shaded but limited lake views.
Site 73DIssues noted
Site 73D: A double site with challenging terrain and electrical panel issues.

What Campers Love

Remote and quiet 'hidden gem' near DFW; family-friendly with lakeside views, shaded forests, and equestrian options; secluded cabin locations near water.[6][8]

Based on 194 reviews

Common Concerns

Maintenance issues such as damaged piers and walkways, high bug populations (chiggers, roaches, and scorpions), and some dissatisfaction with the swimming area.

Based on 194 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Check for trail closures due to weather, storm damage, or prescribed burns (September-April); verify road conditions on SH71 via TxDOT as it often closes when raining; confirm current status of boat...

Based on 194 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter: Cozy cabins and fewer crowds. Summer: High bug activity and heat. Spring and fall: Optimal weather for camping and outdoor activities.

Based on 194 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Cabin 1 is the best cabin." - Robbie Bostick; "Restrooms are clean and close." - Dee Reyes; "The beach area had lots of shade with picnic tables and grills." - Brittany Beane.

Based on 194 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible cabins received positive feedback. User Julie Serna-Hendricks appreciated the park's accommodations for disabled visitors.

Based on 194 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. They are not permitted in swimming areas or on the beach.

Based on 194 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Spring campers who fish, bike, or paddle will get the most out of this place. Cooper Lake has a boat ramp, watercraft rentals, a fish cleaning station, and shaded forest trails, all for $2-$5 a night with electric hookups available in Bright Star Loop.

Skip if

Summer heat and aggressive chiggers are a real problem, and reviewers are serious enough about them to recommend showering immediately after any time outdoors. Damaged piers and walkways haven't been repaired, and the swimming beach draws complaints about quality.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited