About Cooper Spring Nature Park
About Us
Welcome to Cooper Spring Nature Park, a serene 25-acre oasis highlighted by natural springs and lush habitats for birds and butterflies. Stroll our walking trails and enjoy the tranquil beauty of native plants and wildlife in a perfect setting for nature lovers and bird watchers alike.
The Cooper Spring Nature Park Foundation is dedicated to forever preserving the diverse native plants and wildlife around Lampasas' historic springs, creeks, and uplands for the enjoyment and benefit of both residents and visitors. Our focus is on creating sustainable habitats for native birds and butterflies and conserving soil and water resources. We keep infrastructure minimal to keep the focus on nature, while providing safe access for all.
Our dedicated Board of Directors oversees the development, maintenance, and educational programs at Cooper Spring Nature Park, ensuring that every aspect of the park aligns with our conservation goals and community values. The park thrives thanks to the hard work of our teams of volunteers who meticulously maintain the grounds, supported by the generous donations from our community. Together, we are committed to restoring this natural sanctuary for enjoyment, today and into the future.
Cooper Spring Nature Park is deeply rooted in the history of Lampasas, preserving the historic springs that have long shaped the city and provided enjoyment for generations. Our mission emphasizes the conservation of soil and water resources associated with these vital natural features, along with the creeks and uplands that are integral to our local ecosystem. By focusing on creating and maintaining habitats for all wildlife, with a focus on native birds and butterflies, we ensure that the natural heritage of Lampasas is not only preserved but also thrives. This commitment benefits both the residents and visitors of the city, continuing a legacy of natural stewardship and appreciation that defines our community.
Most of the land for the park was donated by Lampasas residents Linda and Rex Johnson. They were approached in 2005 by then-Mayor Judy Heatherly with the idea of a creating a nature park for City residents to enjoy.
At the time, the land was showing the effects of overgrazing, rubble dumping, and the invasion of non-native plants, but its location was ideal. At the time, a community center was being discussed for the land across the street (now Campbell Park). The Johnson’s land could serve double duty as a park and a parking lot for visitors to the community center.
The community center never materialized, having been rejected by voters, but the idea of a park persisted. In fact, without a parking lot to share the land, the concept blossomed into a vision of a serene getaway tucked into the heart of the City. In 2008, the land was deeded to the City of Lampasas, and Cooper Spring Nature Park was born and the restoration continued.
Mayor Heatherly, City Parks Director Micky Tower, and Lampasas resident Harrell Clary began to plan and implement the restoration process, which included clearing rubble and removing non-native vegetation. Cooper Spring—the Park’s namesake body of water—was cleared of decades of accumulated organic matter.
The Johnsons were so impressed with the transformation of the land that they donated the construction of the pavilion, the high fencing, and a heavy equipment operator to continue the improvements.
Today, through several additional donations and acquisitions of land, the park includes just over 25 acres. It fully encompasses Burleson Creek, a freshwater creek on the north and east, and Cemetery Creek (also known as Spring Branch) along the south. Cemetery Creek brings with it the distinctive smell of sulphur from the historic Lampasas sulphur springs.
More than 150 species of birds have been documented within the park. The Monarch butterfly visits the park each fall along its winter migration to Mexico. Dozens of other butterfly species are attracted to the nectar offered by the native wildflowers.
Crushed granite and mowed trails meander through the park, providing visitors with an easy stroll along the creeks. Occasional benches or resting rocks beckon visitors to sit quietly to hear the birdsong or the gentle murmur of the creek.
Each season and each day bring new discoveries to park visitors. With continued stewardship, that will remain true for years to come.
Before & After…
2009
This photograph, taken in 2009, shows overgrown vegetation that blocks the view of Spring Branch. The creek flows under the train trestle where the photographer is standing.
2024
It’s hard to believe, but this photograph was taken 15 years later from the same vantage point. The open, grassy landscape allows for an annual proliferation of sun-loving wildflowers and other native species. It’s a paradise for birds and butterflies.
