Cooper Lake dominates the camping landscape near Commerce, Texas, with its 19,300-acre reservoir offering water-based recreation opportunities about 30 minutes from town. The lake extends across both Hopkins and Delta counties with elevation ranging between 420-440 feet. Winter temperatures typically stay above freezing with occasional cold snaps, while summer camping requires preparation for heat and humidity.
What to do
Kayak fishing opportunities: Access the waters at Liberty Grove Campground at Cooper Lake State Park Doctors Creek Unit where the concrete pads provide a convenient base for water activities. "We stayed at spot 18, it was a quick walk to the lake and had the most beautiful wooded view from the campsite," notes Christina H., highlighting the ease of water access.
Hiking trail exploration: Several trails wind through the park system with varying difficulty levels. "There are a lot of great hiking trails with wildlife including deer, coyotes, armadillos, and butterflies," mentions David R. about Deer Haven Campground. The trails are well-maintained and range from short half-mile loops to longer routes through wooded areas.
Wildlife encounters: Feed horses by hand at Sleep Under The Pecan Trees, a private 100-acre camping area. "Wild, yet docile horses will approach you. You can pet them and feed them by hand. Tall trees and gorgeous campsites. Donkeys hee-hawing, birds singing, and fire flies glowing," describes Aaron W. The property features scattered ponds throughout, offering additional wildlife viewing areas.
What campers like
Lake visibility: Many sites throughout the Cooper Lake system provide direct water views. At Bright Star Campground, campers appreciate the well-designed sites. "We stayed at campsite 8 in the bright star loop and it was one of the best campsites I've stayed in. It was spacious and felt very private even though we knew there were other campsites close by," shares Donna D.
Well-spaced campsites: The camping areas feature concrete pads with good separation between sites in most areas. "The sites are large and fairly private. The restrooms could use some work but they do keep them clean," mentions David R. about Deer Haven Campground. This spacing creates privacy even during busier periods.
Clean facilities: Campground bathrooms and shower facilities receive regular maintenance. According to Melanie W., "The bathrooms and showers were nice and clean" at Liberty Grove Campground. Most developed campgrounds provide showers, restrooms, and access to potable water.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat affects camping comfort from June through September. "We spent three hot days exploring the DR Creek Unit of Cooper Lake State Park. This is a great campground! Most of the sites are in deep shade and are very level concrete pads," explains Dude R. The shade becomes essential during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Campground closures: Flooding can affect access to certain areas. Barbara T. reported in her review of Liberty Grove Campground, "Currently closed due to flooding." Always check park status before planning a trip, especially after heavy rains.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife requires proper food storage and awareness. "My camp site was accosted by a family of raccoons. They were not friendly and not scared of people at all. Be careful if you have young children," warns Anna S. about Oak Grove Campground. Multiple reviewers also mentioned wild hogs appearing near campsites after dark.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer designated play areas and swimming beaches. "Clean bathrooms, good playground and beach area. Cabins, RV, equestrian and tent sites," notes Danelle I. about Oak Grove Campground. The swimming areas typically include designated zones with boundary markers.
Cabin options: For families wanting more structure, cabins provide a comfortable alternative to tents. "The cabins are always clean and tidy. They have spacious bathrooms, an open living/dining area, a small kitchen and bedroom. most also have a nice back porch with picnic table," shares Tori M. about Pecan Ridge Cabins.
Animal encounters: Several campers mention wildlife viewing opportunities perfect for children. "Took my 6 year old daughter for her first camping trip and she loved it. The horses came into our camp and she was mesmerized by their size and beauty. Most amazing experience. She caught her 1st bass in the pond as well," describes Mike J. about Sleep Under The Pecan Trees.
Tips from RVers
RV site leveling: Most RV pads throughout the region are concrete and generally level. "The CG roads are paved, as are the sites. The site pads themselves are concrete and most looked to be fairly level, but a few had a bit of slope," notes Ray & Terri F. about their stay at Bright Star Campground in a 36-foot Class A with tow vehicle.
Cell service considerations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "AT&T coverage was pitiful, with only 1 bar of LTE service and speeds up to 0.1 MB/s," reports Ray & Terri F. Those requiring reliable internet should bring alternative connectivity solutions.
Overnight transit options: For RVers passing through the area, Stinson RV Park in Campbell provides convenient pull-through sites about 15 minutes south of Commerce. "Right off I-30, usually has spots available, very friendly people. All sites are pull-through," mentions Sharon, making this a practical option for overnight stays when passing through the region.
