H. Cooper Black Jr. Memorial Field Trial and Recreation Area
🏆 South Carolina’s 7,000-Acre Equestrian Paradise — Longleaf Pine, Field Trials & Backcountry Trails — Updated for 2026 with trail maps, camping info, field trial schedule, and visitor guide
Seven thousand acres of longleaf pine forest stretch across the rolling South Carolina Piedmont, laced with 40+ miles of sand trails built for horses, dogs, and the kind of slow-paced outdoor experience that most parks have forgotten how to offer. This is H. Cooper Black Jr. Memorial Field Trial and Recreation Area — South Carolina’s premier destination for equestrian riding, hunting dog field trials, and backcountry camping in a landscape that looks like the South was always supposed to.
Named after a legendary sportsman and conservationist, Cooper Black hosts national-level field trial competitions and retriever events throughout the year, drawing competitors from across the country. But you don’t need a horse or a bird dog to enjoy this park — hikers, mountain bikers, anglers, and campers find a rare combination of space, silence, and Southern hospitality across its expansive grounds.
What Makes Cooper Black Special
40+ Miles of Equestrian Trails
Sandy trails through longleaf pine forest — plus stables with 24 stalls, corrals, and arenas.
National Field Trials
One of America’s premier venues for pointing dog and retriever competitions. Year-round events.
7,000 Acres
Vast longleaf pine ecosystem — one of the largest dedicated recreation areas in the SC state park system.
Peaceful Camping
27 sites with hookups plus primitive camping. Rarely crowded. Deep Southern quiet.
Activities
- 🐴 Horseback Riding: 40+ miles of sand trails. Bring your own horse. Stables, corrals, arenas. Coggins test required
- 🐕 Field Trials: National-level pointing dog and retriever competitions. Spectators welcome
- 🦌 Hunting: Seasonal deer, turkey, and small game (no quail). Check schedule for event conflicts
- 🎣 Fishing: Three park ponds with bass and bluegill. Call ahead to confirm no events
- 🚶 Hiking: Multi-use trails through longleaf pine forest and open fields
- 🚴 Mountain Biking: Shared-use trails with varying terrain
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Sites | 27 campsites with water and electric hookups + primitive sites |
| 🚿 Amenities | Restrooms, showers. WiFi and EV charging available |
| 🐴 Equestrian | 24-stall stable, kennels, corrals, arenas at campground |
| 📅 Open | 24 hours daily. Park office has limited hours |
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
| Season | Months | Weather | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🍂 Fall | Sep–Nov | 55-75°F | 🏆 Perfect riding weather. Field trial season begins. Hunting. Cool and comfortable |
| 🌸 Spring | Mar–May | 60-80°F | 🏆 Dogwood blooms, green trails, spring field trials. Beautiful riding |
| ☀️ Summer | Jun–Aug | 85-95°F | Hot and humid. Early morning rides. Fishing in ponds |
| ❄️ Winter | Dec–Feb | 35-55°F | Hunting season. Mild winter riding. Quiet camping |
Budget Calculator
| Expense | Day Trip | Camping Weekend | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Admission | $3/adult | $3/adult | SC seniors $1.50, children 6-15 $1 |
| Camping (2 nights) | — | $20-30/night | Water/electric hookup sites |
| Total (2 adults) | $6 | $46-$66 | Extremely affordable Southern camping |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need my own horse?
Yes — this is a bring-your-own-horse facility. 24-stall stable, corrals, and arenas are available. Coggins test papers required.
What are field trials?
Competitive events for pointing dogs and retrievers — they test a dog’s ability to find, point, and retrieve game birds. Cooper Black hosts national-level events. Spectators are welcome.
Can I hunt here?
Yes — deer, turkey, and small game hunting is permitted in season. No quail hunting. Always check event schedules first.
Is it good for hiking?
Yes, but this park is primarily designed for equestrians. Hikers share the sandy trails and will enjoy the longleaf pine forest. Over 40 miles of trails to explore.
🐴 7,000 Acres of Southern Countryside
This is the South at its most spacious — longleaf pines whispering in the breeze, sandy trails stretching into mist, and the sound of a pointing dog working a field while its handler watches from horseback. Cooper Black isn’t just a park; it’s a way of life that celebrates the sporting traditions of the South Carolina countryside. Whether you ride, hunt, fish, or simply camp under the pines and listen to the quiet, you’ll find 7,000 acres of room to breathe.
📍 Address: 825 Copes Creek Road, Patrick, SC 29584
📞 Phone: (843) 498-6005
