Paris Mountain State Park Campground

For South Carolina residents seeking the perfect blend of natural serenity and urban convenience, Paris Mountain State Park Campground in Greenville stands out as an unparalleled gem. This beautiful park offers an accessible escape into the great outdoors, proving that you don't have to travel far to immerse yourself in nature's tranquility and enjoy a wide array of recreational activities. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a family looking for outdoor fun, or a hiker eager to hit the trails, Paris Mountain State Park provides an inviting and well-maintained environment for all.

South Carolina is celebrated for its diverse landscapes, from its pristine coastlines to its rolling Upstate hills. For many locals, the charm of Greenville and its surrounding natural areas is a strong draw. Paris Mountain State Park, often affectionately referred to as the "mountain" rising above the city, offers a unique opportunity to experience a true natural retreat without sacrificing the convenience of city amenities. As one delighted camper put it, "It is a beautiful park close to Greenville (10min to Lidl for forgotten items) and full of trails and activities for the family." This blend of accessibility and abundant recreation makes it a prime choice for South Carolinians looking for quality outdoor time close to home.

The campground itself is consistently lauded for its cleanliness and the welcoming atmosphere created by both staff and fellow campers. Reviews highlight that the "campground is kept so clean and everyone is super friendly," which instills confidence and allows visitors to relax, knowing their "kids safety while walking around and having fun" is not a concern. This sense of security and community contributes significantly to the overall enjoyable experience.

Beyond the camping experience, the park is a hub of activity. With a lake featuring a designated swimming area and rentable fishing gear, kayaks, and canoes, water enthusiasts will find plenty to do. The extensive network of "wonderful" trails, even after events like hurricanes, are "well maintained" and offer varying levels of difficulty, ensuring there's a path for every hiker and mountain biker. Paris Mountain State Park truly embodies the ideal local getaway, where adventure and relaxation go hand-in-hand.

Paris Mountain State Park Campground is ideally located at 199 Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville, SC 29609, USA. This address places it just six miles north of downtown Greenville, a significant advantage for both local residents and visitors to the Upstate region. Its close proximity to the city (approximately 10 minutes from amenities like a grocery store for any forgotten items, as one reviewer noted) offers unparalleled convenience, allowing campers to easily access supplies, restaurants, and other urban attractions while still enjoying a distinct natural environment.

While the park is conveniently located, it's worth noting some aspects of its internal accessibility. Reviews mention that "the drive into Sleepy Sheep was really rough and had gulleys that were bad" for a nearby park, however, for Paris Mountain specifically, reviewers state that the "roads are nice" and "very shady." Some RV campers note that while the park can accommodate RVs up to 35-40 feet, the "winding road, and once in the park there are tight turns and narrow roads," so driving slowly is advised. Larger RVs may find some turns "difficult if not impossible to get level" on certain sites. However, improvements are being made to site pads, and the campground aims to accommodate. It's always wise for RVers to check site-specific details and consider their rig's size.

Despite its popularity, Paris Mountain State Park can "get full easily," particularly the hiking trails, and parking can be limited. This highlights the importance of arriving early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, to secure a spot and fully enjoy the park's offerings. For campers, a gate code is provided upon registration for after-hours entry and exit. Overall, the park’s location truly offers a convenient and accessible escape into nature, a rare find so close to a bustling city center.

• Campsites: The campground features 39 paved campsites, each equipped with individual water and electrical hookups (30/50 amp available). 13 of these sites also offer tent pads, making them suitable for tent camping within an RV-friendly setup. Some sites accommodate RVs up to 35-40 feet.

• Primitive Walk-To Campsites: In addition to paved sites, there are five primitive walk-to campsites located along the North Lake Trail Loop, offering a more secluded experience for tent campers.

• Bathhouses with Hot Showers: Conveniently located restroom facilities with "hot showers" are available, ensuring comfort for campers.

• Dump Station: A dump station is provided for RVs, though one reviewer noted it might require leveling blocks due to pavement tilt.

• Park Store/Gift Shop: A "cute store" is available, offering essentials and souvenirs. It also has an "interactive display of the park."

• Equipment Rentals: Guests can rent "fishing gear/kayaks/canoes" directly from the park store, making water activities easily accessible.

• Lake Access & Swimming: An 8-acre Lake Placid features a designated "lake with a beach" and "swimming area" (swim at your own risk) with "plenty of tables or chairs for you to lounge in."

• Fishing: Fishing is permitted in Lake Placid and the larger 15-acre Reservoir #3 (accessible via a 2-mile hike), both stocked with bass, bream, and catfish. A valid SC fishing license is required.

• Playground: A playground is available for children, located near the ball field and volleyball court.

• Hiking & Biking Trails: Extensive trail system (15-17 miles) for both hiking and mountain biking (biking not allowed on Saturdays).

• Geocaching: Several geocaches are located within the park for those who enjoy this treasure-hunting activity.

• Pets Welcome: Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas and campsites, provided they are kept on a leash (not allowed in or around cabins, cabin areas or swimming area).

• Camp Buckhorn: A group facility with 9 small cabins and a central lodge, available for rental for larger groups.

• Water Bottle Filling Station: A new amenity making it easy to refill reusable bottles.

• Wi-Fi: Available at the Park Center office and the Camp Buckhorn lodge (not accessible in the main campground area).

• Urban Oasis: A truly unique feature, offering a full state park experience just minutes from downtown Greenville, making it incredibly convenient for locals.

• Beautiful & Well-Maintained: Consistently described as a "beautiful park" and the "campground is kept so clean," with trails that are "well maintained" even after adverse weather.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Praised for its safety and welcoming environment, making it ideal for families with children ("don’t worry about my kids safety").

• Diverse Trail System: Offers "wonderful trails" of varying "difficulty level," from easy loops around Lake Placid to more "challenging spots" and strenuous ascents for serious hikers and mountain bikers (note: no biking on Saturdays).

• Lake Activities: Features an 8-acre lake with a sandy beach, swimming area, and easily rentable kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats, providing plenty of water-based fun.

• Community & Friendliness: Guests report that "everyone is super friendly," contributing to a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

• On-site Store & Rentals: The convenience of a park store with rentable gear enhances the experience, especially for spontaneous adventures.

• Shaded Sites: Many areas and roads within the park are "very Shady," providing comfort during warmer months.

As a South Carolina State Park, Paris Mountain State Park Campground operates with a standard admission and camping fee structure, rather than offering specific, limited-time "promotions" in the commercial sense. However, its affordability and the comprehensive amenities included with park access can be considered a consistent value offer for locals.

The park's daily admission fees are structured to be accessible:

• Adults: $6.00

• SC Seniors (age 65 & older): $3.75

• Children (age 6-15): $3.50

• Children 5 and younger: Free

These admission fees include access to the designated swimming area when open, adding value to a day visit or a camping stay. Camping rates vary by season and demand, and reservations typically require a minimum of two nights. While there aren't explicit "buy one get one free" type promotions, the park consistently provides a rich array of activities and well-maintained facilities for its established rates.

South Carolina residents can also explore the South Carolina State Parks Passport, which offers annual access to all state parks, representing a significant saving for frequent visitors. This acts as a long-term "special offer" for dedicated state park enthusiasts. For the most current rates and reservation details for campsites or group facilities like Camp Buckhorn, it is always recommended to check the official South Carolina State Parks website or contact the park directly. Given its popularity, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, booking well in advance is highly advisable to secure your preferred dates.

To plan your visit, make reservations, or inquire about specific details regarding Paris Mountain State Park Campground, you can reach out directly using the following contact information:

• Address: 199 Paris Mountain State Park, Greenville, SC 29609, USA

• Phone: (864) 244-5565

• Mobile Phone: +1 864-244-5565

For camping reservations or to view current rates, you can also call the toll-free reservations line: 1-866-345-PARK. For reservations requested less than one day in advance of check-in, direct contact with the park is required. The park office staff are generally very helpful and can provide up-to-date information on trail conditions, facility availability, and any park news.

For South Carolina residents, Paris Mountain State Park Campground represents an exceptional and highly suitable destination for outdoor recreation and relaxation, offering a unique blend of convenience, natural beauty, and robust amenities right in their own backyard. Its prime location, just minutes from downtown Greenville, is a game-changer for locals. It means less travel time and more time enjoying the park, making it easy to pop out for forgotten items or to explore the city's attractions before returning to the peaceful embrace of nature. This accessibility encourages more frequent and spontaneous visits, enriching the lives of Upstate residents.

The park's commitment to maintaining a "beautiful" and "clean" environment, from the "pristine" campground to the "well maintained" trails and "clean bathhouses," ensures a comfortable and worry-free experience. For families, the emphasis on safety ("don’t worry about my kids safety") and the abundance of activities like the "cute store with rentable fishing gear/kayaks/canoes" and a "lake with a beach" make it an ideal spot for creating cherished family memories without extensive planning or travel.

Furthermore, the diverse and engaging trail system, offering everything from easy strolls around Lake Placid to more "challenging spots" for avid hikers and mountain bikers, caters to all fitness levels and interests. The "very friendly" atmosphere, both among staff and other visitors, fosters a welcoming community spirit that enhances the overall enjoyment. Paris Mountain State Park Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a vital green space and recreational hub that empowers South Carolinians to connect with nature, engage in healthy activities, and enjoy quality time with loved ones, all within the convenient and stunning landscape of their cherished home state. It's a true urban oasis designed for local enjoyment.