City Directories and History: Paris Mountain is significant for its association with the establishment and development of a system of state parks in South Carolina. As one of sixteen state parks constructed in the state by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), Paris Mountain is expressive of the conservation, recreation, and design ethic of the early twentieth century state parks movement. Specifically, Paris Mountain is significant for its association with early utilitarian conservation efforts in South Carolina before the 1930s, and the establishment of local recreational parks during the Great Depression. Paris Mountain also reflects the rustic style of park architecture and landscape design. Buildings and structures in the park were built using local materials, such as rubble stone and rough hewn logs, in a manner that harmonized with the natural environment.
The CCC structures are grouped into three main areas, all surrounding or close to lakes. The most concentrated development occurs along the south side of Lake Placid. This section of the park includes picnic spots, the bathhouse, swimming area, amphitheater, athletic field, and park administrative buildings. The area around Sulphur Springs and Mountain Lake includes trails, picnic areas, and the archery range. Hidden deep within the park is the Buckhorn organized group camp, which consists of a lodge and camper cabins. All of these areas are joined by park roads, which serve to unify the overall park design. Listed in the National Register April 30, 1998.
View a map showing the boundaries of the Paris Mountain State Park Historic District.
View the complete text of the nomination form for this National Register property. In addition, the Historic Resources of South Carolina State Parks includes historical background information for this and other related National Register properties.(Courtesy of South Carolina Department of Archives and History)
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