Once again, history and nature merge to create an outstanding outdoor recreation spot in South Carolina. Most people don't know about this 240-acre park in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains - or its historical significance tied to being a former state park.

Pleasant Ridge Park is located near Marietta in northern Greenville County.

The park's history is one we don't often hear promoted. It began as a state park (Pleasant Ridge State Park) that opened in 1951 — a segregated park meant to be the corresponding African American park for then all-white neighboring Paris Mountain State Park. However, by the 1960s the two were both integrated. By the mid-1980s, the state decided that Paris Mountain was the more popular of the two parks and it offered Pleasant Ridge to Greenville County who began operations of the park in the late 1980s.

The park is a terrific place for families to gather.

Trails for both hiking and biking are abundant, with the longest trail at six miles and the shortest trail at just over a quarter of a mile.

That short trail?

That would be the one to the waterfall! Not only is it short, it's also an easy stroll.

Other trails lead to evidence of the history of the park.

An old homestead and mill are among the many finds; as is this grand old fireplace. In total, this scenic little park is home to a little more than eight miles of hiking and biking trails.

You can't see it in the above aerial photo but there's also a picturesque lake that's four acres strong.

It's perfect for fishing on a lazy day. But that's not the only cool thing you'll find at this county park. It has a climbing tower just for the kids, cabin rentals, a group lodge available for special occasions, a playground, and picnic shelters.

And in the height of the summer... a swimming pool.

Nestled in the valley with some big mountain peaks all around, this pool is a sure ringer for having a better view than any other in the county!

This could be the perfect year to discover a new favorite place to relax for the day in the mountains of South Carolina.

Have you ever been to this fun park? And did you realize it's a lost state park??

Pleasant Ridge Park is open year-round, seven days a week. The hours are March through October from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and November through February 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Park admission is free. Learn more at this link on the official website of Greenville County Rec.

Address: 4232 Highway 11, Marietta, SC, 29661