Cooper Lake State Park features several camping options within 30 miles of Arthur City, Texas. The area sits at the edge of the Blackland Prairies region with elevations around 400-500 feet. This northeast Texas location experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F and mild winters. Campgrounds in this area typically offer both wooded sites with shade and open sites with lake views.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pat Mayse West, visitors can access multiple fishing spots along the shoreline. "This is a good place to go for a family camping spot! Great for fishing, kayaking, riding bikes!" says camper Tammie L. The lake has "plenty of shoreline for swimming and fishing as well as 2 boat ramps on site."
Hiking trails: The Coffee Mill Lake Recreation Area offers trails through the Grassland National Forest. As one reviewer noted, "The campground is secluded in The Grassland National Forest." Another camper mentioned you can "choose wooded areas or open without trees" for your site, making it ideal for trail access.
Water recreation: Beavers Bend State Park Campground provides access to a river that's perfect for canoeing. "We had a great time canoeing on the river. Deer were everywhere in the evening," wrote reviewer Sherry S. The park is also known for its fly fishing opportunities, with one camper noting, "even though I didn't catch anything my first time out fly fishing, the tranquil scenery made up for it."
What campers like
Quiet, secluded spots: At McGee Creek State Park Campground, campers appreciate the seclusion. "I stayed at 'tent hill' primitive area. Spot number 3 and it was PERFECT! Wooded area, quiet, peaceful. Trail literally right across from the section," writes Nikki F. The park offers various camping options including lakeside sites.
Clean facilities: Liberty Grove Campground at Cooper Lake receives high marks for maintenance. "The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean. The lake was beautiful and clear," notes one visitor. Another camper added, "Most of the sites are in deep shade and are very level concrete pads."
Star viewing: McGee Creek State Park offers exceptional night skies. "There is no lights around the lake except at the park. Star gazing is amazing," one camper noted. Another reviewer mentioned, "This place is really dark at night and some campsites are very private. You can see so many stars."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Storms can affect camping conditions. At Liberty Grove Campground, one camper noted, "Sites easily flooded in rain and park seems often wet." The sites at this park are "mostly shaded with full hookup's," which provides some protection.
Reservation requirements: Busy weekends require advance planning. "We arrived here because all the campgrounds in a 50 mile radius were booked up," wrote one camper about Cooper Lake State Park. Most state parks in the region allow reservations up to 5 months in advance.
Amenities vary widely: Some sites have limited facilities. At Coffee Mill Lake, "The campground is small, maybe 12 sites, vault toilets decently cleaned, and multiple water spigots." Another camper noted, "This is basic no frills car camping here if you are interested."
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly amenities: Lake Bonham Recreation Area offers numerous family activities. "There's a basketball court and kayak rentals. There's a fishing pier and lots of covered tables and grills and it's a nice Sandy Beach," one camper shared. The park also offers boat rentals so families can "get out to where the fish are hiding."
Choose parks with educational opportunities: Pat Mayse West features ranger programs on weekends during summer. "The staff and volunteers patrol the park frequently making sure the park is clean and the facilities are clean as well," notes one visitor, indicating an active management presence.
Consider yurt options for families: Yurt camping near Arthur City, Texas provides a comfortable alternative for families with young children. Many parks, including Beavers Bend, feature yurt accommodations with climate control while still providing outdoor experiences.
Tips for RVers
Site selection matters: At K River Campground, RV sites offer good shade coverage. "Lots of tall trees plus some open areas. Trees will not block canopies or pull outs!" notes Bart R. The campground provides both 30 and 50 amp service.
Dump station availability: Plan your waste management. Pat Mayse West provides a sanitary dump station, though one visitor mentioned some sites have "water access sometimes very far from the campsite and sometimes right on each site there is no consistency, so an extra hose is advisable."
Leveling considerations: Many campgrounds require preparation. "The spot was unleveled but that's no big deal if you have leveling blocks," mentioned Elizabeth B. about Pat Mayse West. Several campgrounds in the Arthur City area feature concrete pads, particularly at the state parks, while others have more natural terrain.
