Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Paris Mountain
Overview
Paris Mountain State Park is a historic treasure located in the heart of the South Carolina Piedmont. Originally established in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, this 1,540-acre park offers a tranquil retreat from the urban bustle. It is anchored by the scenic Lake Placid, where visitors can enjoy reflections of the surrounding hardwoods and the quiet rustle of the forest. The park preserves the natural beauty of one of the area's most iconic monadnocks, providing a lush, green sanctuary for both locals and travelers.
Location & Surroundings
Situated just six miles north of downtown Greenville, SC, the park offers a unique balance of wilderness and convenience. The elevation provides a cooler atmosphere than the city below, with the landscape dominated by dense oak and hickory trees. Staying here feels like being deep in the mountains, yet you are only minutes away from the vibrant shops and restaurants of one of the South's most popular cities. The terrain is characterized by rolling hills and rocky outcrops that define the Blue Ridge Foothills region.
Amenities & Park Features
The camping area features paved sites nestled within the trees, designed to accommodate various rig sizes. The park provides the following essential amenities:
- 39 paved RV sites equipped with water and up to 50-amp electrical hookups.
- Modern bathhouses that include hot showers and clean restroom facilities.
- A convenient on-site dump station located near the campground entrance for easy access.
For recreation, the park offers a seasonal swimming area and boat rentals, including kayaks and canoes, allowing guests to explore the peaceful waters of Lake Placid.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Outdoor adventure is the primary draw, with over 15 miles of multi-use trails catering to hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. Anglers can spend an afternoon fishing for bass or bream in the well-stocked lakes. Beyond the park gates, a short drive leads to the famous Swamp Rabbit Trail, a 22-mile multi-use greenway. Visitors can also explore Falls Park on the Reedy, which features a stunning suspension bridge and manicured gardens in the center of Greenville.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize natural scenery and trail access over luxury resort amenities. It is a perfect fit for families looking for a weekend of swimming and exploring, or for travelers who want a quiet, wooded base camp while visiting the Upstate. Because many of the sites are shorter or have slight inclines, it is best suited for small to mid-sized RVs and those who appreciate the rustic charm and historic character of a state park setting.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Desiree W (Coffee and Wandering)
Admission is $6 per person, there was an employee working at the entrance so it is possible to pay via card. The employee working inside the office in the park was helpful and friendly when choosing a trail. The lake was beautiful and calm. There is a short trail that circles the lake and has stunning views of the lake and dam. It is child and dog friendly. There were many other trails in the park but limited parking. Arrive early if you want to find parking.
John Hutchison
We traveled through the state park on the weekend of October 18th. The drive through was amazing, so much beauty in there. Where are the roads are posted 15 miles per hour, do that. LOL You don't want to miss a scenic view, but you also do not want to drive off the road and down hundreds of feet into the trees below. It's just a short walk to view the 19th century dam, which is located just inside the park. Watch your step, however. On the day we went, there was not much water coming over the top, being early in the fall and not having much rain in the area. It did not detract from the beauty and the incredible workmanship that produced the dam. This would be a beautiful place to just come to relax and take in the sounds of the water and the animals nearby.
Tom Riggle
We have enjoyed this park on several recent occasions. My interests (as you can see form the photos) is mainly on nature and finding trails more or less secluded. But this is also a great place for outings for friends and family. There are a number of well-maintained trails. Signage is pretty good as well.
Emily Gettys
What a great spot in Greenville! Lots of trails for all abilities, a lake with a beach where you can swim and kayak, and a playground. I love bringing my kids here. Would recommend getting the SC states parks pass for $90 if you plan to come here frequently (can buy the pass at the visitors center).
Vita Yurovsky
Peaceful park to relax at. My huge family loves to come and picnic here. They have a little Lake and so many hiking trails! A nice easy one goes all around the lake and passes by a dam waterfall. I would check water quality before swimming because sometimes the bacteria levels are high. $5 for a 30 minute paddle boat ride! Green & beautiful.