Coopers Rock State Forest gets its name from a legend about a fugitive who hid from the law near what is now the overlook. During the Depression the CCC built numerous structures in the forest, of which 11, including the rustic picnic shelters near the overlook, are on the National Register. Its 12,713 acres are bisected by Interstate 68. Although the forest serves as a recreation and preservation area, its forests also serve for forestry research, timber management, and watershed and wildlife protection. 25 tent/trailer campsites, fishing, hunting (in season), picnicking, playground, hiking/cross-country ski trails and a trading post/snack bar.