Copper Breaks State Park
Comanche Country
Early Americans, including the Comanche, camped in this part of North Texas for thousands of years, replenishing body and soul. You can do the same today at Copper Breaks State Park.
Things to Do
The rugged terrain, quiet water bodies, and dark night skies provide lots to do and see in the park.
Sunrises and sunsets are spectacular here. Reserve a front-row seat in one of the Big Pond equestrian campsites (open to all campers). Or hike the Juniper Ridge and Rocky Ledges Loop trails for higher vantage points.
Members of the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd live in the park; look for them in the south pasture near the park entrance.
Reserve our group hall, pavilion or a group camp for your next gathering.
Hiking and biking
Most trails in the park are open to hiking and mountain biking. Take a virtual tour on our interactive trails map.
The Juniper Ridge Nature Trail (hiking only) is a short, challenging hike to great views of the red rock landscape. If you are seeking a thrill on wheels, explore MTB Loop and Chris’ Link on mountain bike.
Fishing and swimming
Try your luck fishing Lake Copper Breaks or Big Pond. You do not need a license to fish here. We loan fishing gear for use in the park.
The lake has a designated swimming area, but no lifeguards.
Read through our water safety tips before your visit.
Camping
Choose from a variety of campsites: drive-up sites with amenities and hike-in primitive sites. We also have two group camping areas.
Stargazing
The International Dark Sky Association has designated Copper Breaks as an International Dark Sky Park. Learn more on our Stargazing page.
We offer monthly star parties April through November, as well as other night sky programs throughout the year. Check our Events page for the schedule.
Horseback riding
Explore rugged canyons and grass-covered mesas on the 3.8-mile Equestrian Trail. We have equestrian campsites, a parking area, and a large tank for horses.
You must provide your own horse and proof of negative Coggins test at check-in.
Paddling and boating
Bring your kayak, canoe or small fishing boat. Lake Copper Breaks has a small boat ramp. The 60-acre lake is a no-wake zone; jet skis are not allowed.
Note: Lake levels are currently very low. Check with the park before bring your watercraft.
Get involved!
Ask at headquarters how you can help. Or you can:
- Visit our Volunteer page.
- Donate at the park or online to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation
Ranger Programs
We offer programs throughout the year; check our Events page for the schedule. Contact the park to schedule a program for your group.
Learn more about this area at the museum at headquarters, on our History page, or by downloading our Interpretive Guide | PDF.
Connect with us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news, interesting finds and photos of the week.
Kids
Become a Junior Ranger!
- Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with tools (binoculars, field guides and more).
- Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal | PDF. Complete tasks to earn a badge.
Area Attractions
Four prominent hills about 10 miles east of the park near Highway 6 make up Medicine Mounds, a ceremonial and religious site of the Comanches. The mounds are on private property and trespassing is prohibited. Please observe from the highway or the nearby town of Medicine Mound.
The Hardeman County Historical Museum in Quanah and the Firehall Museum in Crowell display early Texas artifacts.
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