Wintertime at Cooper Lake State Park brings very special opportunities for outdoor exploration. No mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, and some of our other not so favorite animals are dormant so get out here and trop through the woods. January is the best month of the year for stargazing. With the park’s dark skies, celestial adventures await. Take a cool hike on almost 20 miles of parkland trails. Go trout fishing at the end of the month in our special event pond. Campout and enjoy a roaring campfire as you sip a steamy cup of hot chocolate as you roast a s’more!Are you excited yet?
Cooper Lake State Park is thrilled to host a series of fun and engaging educational events scheduled for the second half of January at both Doctors Creek and South Sulphur Units. Among these, the centerpiece is the eagerly anticipated “Annual Kid’s Trout Fishing Day” on Saturday, Jan. 20 at the South Sulphur Unit. This is a perfect opportunity for young anglers to experience the joy of trout fishing, an unusual experience for sure for Texas. Kids be sure to bring an adult and they can fish too! No Fishing Licenses Required and we will have bait and loaner poles too!
The journey continues at South Sulphur, the starry night of Jan. 13 will bring the 'Stargazing' event to life. Starting at 7 p.m. at the Gulls Bluff Boat Launch Parking Lot, you can gaze upon the celestial wonders and catch a glimpse of the Quadrantids meteor shower. The journey continues with and artistic flare Jan. 14 with another 'Art in the Park' session at 2 p.m. at the Gulls Bluff Pavilion, inviting more participants to join the State Fish Art contest. Finally, on Jan. 27, try your hand at archery with 'Archery 101.' This event, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Buggy Whip Restroom, requires prior registration and is limited to 12 participants. It's a fantastic opportunity for those aged 10 and up to learn archery, regardless of experience level. To reserve your spot, contact Alicia O'Connor at Alicia. O’Connor@tpwd.texas. gov or call 903-945-5256.
At Doctors Creek, the journey begins with the 'Skins and Skulls' event on Jan. 13. At 2 p.m., gather at the Doctors Creek Headquarters for a fascinating glimpse into the lives of local wildlife. The following day, on Jan. 14, 'Art in the Park' beckons all creative spirits to Pelican Point Pavilion at 10 a.m. Here, artists of every skill level can express their creativity in the State Fish Art contest, with all materials provided. On January 20th, survival enthusiasts and nature lovers alike won't want to miss 'Fire Building 101.' Starting at 10 a.m. in the Bluebonnet Day Use Area, you'll learn the art of building the perfect campfire. The month at Doctors Creek culminates with the 'Wildlife Detectives' event on Jan. 27. Meet at 2 p.m. at the South Loop trailhead at Pelican Point parking lot for an enlightening walk on the South Loop Trail, where you'll learn to read the signs of the local fauna.
We warmly invite everyone to participate in these enthralling activities, especially the Annual Kid’s Trout Fishing Day, a unique and delightful experience for budding fishing enthusiasts. Cooper Lake State Park is excited to offer these engaging events, fostering a connection with the natural work and sparking new interests. Join us for a January filled with discovery and fun! Park is committed to providing educational and recreational opportunities that connect our community with nature. We look forward to welcoming you to our park!
All programs and are free with your entrance permit.
For more information on events and programs at Cooper Lake State Park, visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website and Facebook pages of call South Sulphur Unit at 903-945-5256 or Doctors Creek Unit at 903-3953100.