Big Pond Equestrian Campground

Advanced riders should check out the 9.5mile Big Loop Trail, which starts near the Kiowa camping area the cuts through rugged badlands on terrain that alternates between narrow rocky sections with steep and fast descents and old ranch roads. Expect portages, scary descents, and some difficult climbs, while surrounded by all the nature that West Texas has to offer. The weather is likely to be steamy in the summer, so carry lots of water. You’ll also find a variety of shorter and flatter trails here, or you can just head out to cover only one section of the Big Loop Trail.

If you’re not heading out on a canoe or kayak to see what you can catch, trying fishing from the pier on the southeast side of Lake Copper Breaks. A fish-cleaning area can be found on the opposite side of the lake near the boat-launch area.

Copper Breaks State Park offers a number of trails for those looking to get out and hike! Here you'll find a trail system that's well-marked and maintained. Expect fairly flat and easy terrain with no large ascents or descents. The park's most challenging trails are the Juniper Ridge Nature Trail (.7 miles) and the Rocky Ledges Loop (1.63 miles). More moderate trails include the Bull Canyon Trail Long Loop (2.36 miles) and the Equestrian Trail (3.69 miles). The simplest hikes are the Bull Canyon Trail Short Loop (.96 miles) and Chris Link (1.25 miles). Many of these trails connect, so grab a trail map and plan a route if you're on the hunt for a longer hike.

Take your horse out for a scenic ride on the Equestrian Trail at Copper Breaks State Park. You’ll pass through prairie, wetland, and woodland settings, so keep your eyes peeled for a variety of flora and fauna while trotting along. Keep in mind that this is the park’s only trail that permits horseback riding. To accommodate horses, the park offers a large parking area and a water tank, along with six equestrian camping sites.

Cool off after a hike with a dip in Lake Copper Breaks. Here you'll find a designated swimming area, but be prepared as no lifeguards are on duty. In the water, children must be supervised by an adult who knows how to swim.

You’ll find a great array of natural beauty and wildlife at Copper Breaks State Park. Birders should be on the lookout for roadrunners, great blue herons, ducks, quail, doves, meadowlarks, cardinals, owls, bluebirds, hawks, kites, mockingbirds. If you or the kids are trying to see some mammals, the best times to look are early morning and late evening, when you may be lucky enough to set your eyes upon bobcats, porcupines, coyotes, mule deer, raccoons, rabbits, armadillos, and opossums. Near the lake you may also see a horned toad, frogs, lizards, and turtles. Bird and wildlife checklists can be obtained at park headquarters.