The 710 acres that would become Fort Cooper State Park were acquired in 1970 from private owners. It opened to the public in 1977. The swamp and marsh areas around the lake, the hardwood hammock, and the sandhill communities provide opportunities to observe the extensive wildlife on the park's 5 miles of self-guided trails. Deer, fox, rabbits, owls, herons and cardinals are all residents of park. The park offers primitive tent camping for groups of up to 30 people.
Visitors can play volleyball and horseshoes in the main use area of the park.
There is also a playground available. Swimming , sunbathing and fishing are very popular activities at this park. The hardwood hammock is an excellent picnic area complete with grills, tables and pavilions. Pavilions are available to rent as are canoes and paddle boats which can be rented for a day of enjoyment in the lake. Each year in March, the park holds Fort Cooper Days.