Paris Mountain State Park's history begins in the 1920s, when the park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps around the singular rocky peak of Paris Mountain. The current structures all maintain the same wood and stone aesthetics as the original lodge. The main lodge next to the ranger's residence has educational materials and games for kids. Across the street is a playground with a volleyball net and a large open field for team sports.

One main road leads through to the top of the mountain and to many parking areas, creating easy access to over 15 miles of mountain biking/hiking trails. Each trailhead features a picnic area and a bike maintenance area complete with tools and air pumps. The trails allow hiking and mountain biking and are considered very technical for biking because they are filled with rocks and roots. Mountain bikes are not allowed in the park on Saturdays due to the high number of hikers. There are five primitive trailside campsites around the North Lake Trail Loop and 39 paved campsites midway through the park with individual water and electrical hookups for RVs, 13 of which have tent pads. Camping reservations must be made, and fees vary based on site type and length of stay. There are four lakes in the park, but the main draw of the park is Lake Placid, which allows hiking around the Lake Placid Trail, swimming, fishing, paddle boarding, and kayaking/canoeing (personal watercraft not allowed). On the opposite side of the lake, Mountain Creek Trail leads to an outdoor amphitheater that hosts free solar-powered concerts through September and October. There are day use and picnic areas scattered around the lake and barbecue grills that are available to all.

The Lodge at Camp Buckhorn is a rentable space that seats up to 75 people. It has been fully renovated, has a state-of-the-art kitchen, and is popular for weddings, reunions, and other large group gatherings. The rental of Camp Buckhorn includes nine small cabins that sleep up to four.