Visit
100 YMCA Camp RdCleveland, SC 29635Gathering: Sunday Not specified (Church Services)
When to go
Worship and gatherings
- SundayNot specified · Church Services
About
Summary
Pretty Place Chapel, also known as Fred W. Symmes Chapel, is an outdoor chapel located in Cleveland, South Carolina, on the grounds of YMCA Camp Greenville. Constructed in 1941, it serves as a spiritual center for the camp and is open to the public for visits and events. The chapel is known for its stunning mountain views and is a popular spot for weddings, proposals, and quiet reflection.
Details
Pretty Place Chapel, or Fred W. Symmes Chapel, is an outdoor spiritual space located on the 1,400-acre YMCA Camp Greenville property in Cleveland, South Carolina. Gifted in 1941 by Mr. Symmes, the chapel has been a central part of the camp's spiritual life and has undergone several renovations, including major updates in 2012, 2018, and 2025 following Hurricane Helene. The chapel sits at an elevation of 3,200 feet above Stone Mountain, offering panoramic mountain views and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to meditate, pray, or enjoy the scenery.
The chapel is open to the public at no charge during daylight hours, except when it is in use for summer camp (May–August) or for private events such as weddings, dedications, and memorial services. Visitors are encouraged to check the visitation schedule before planning a trip to avoid conflicts with scheduled events. Porta-potty-style bathrooms are available on-site for convenience.
The chapel is a popular destination for engagement proposals, sunrise and sunset visits, and family gatherings. Its serene environment and breathtaking views make it a favorite among visitors, who often describe the experience as 'breathtaking' and 'peaceful.'
While Pretty Place Chapel is not a traditional congregation with regular services, it functions as a spiritual and community space for campers and visitors. The chapel is maintained through donations and private event fees, which also help support scholarships for children who might otherwise not be able to attend camp.
From Faith Near Me
Fred W. Symmes Chapel, known as Pretty Place Chapel, is a serene outdoor spiritual space located in Cleveland, South Carolina, on the grounds of YMCA Camp Greenville. Visitors will find a welcoming atmosphere for reflection, with panoramic mountain views and a peaceful setting ideal for weddings, proposals, and quiet gatherings. The chapel’s open hours and availability for private events reflect its role as a community and spiritual resource.
Pros
- The chapel offers free public access during daylight hours, excluding event times.
- It provides a peaceful, scenic environment for meditation, prayer, and reflection.
- The site is available for weddings, dedications, and memorial services, with a schedule for visitors to check.
- Porta-potty-style bathrooms are available for visitor convenience.
- The chapel is maintained through donations and event fees, supporting camp scholarships.
- Its high elevation offers stunning panoramic mountain views.
Cons
- The chapel is only open during daylight hours and may be closed for private events or summer camp sessions.
- Visitors should check the schedule in advance to avoid conflicts with scheduled events.
- The site is not a traditional congregation with regular services, so ongoing worship gatherings are not available.
- The steep drive to the chapel may pose accessibility challenges for some visitors.
- Public access can be limited during peak times due to event bookings or high visitor turnout.
Reviews from around the web
Public comments we collected from listing sources. Not written on Faith Near Me.
- Kristin3 months ago
We visited on a Friday around 8:30 and the drive was very steep and silly as promised. I get car sickness but since I was driving I had no problems at all. Upon reaching the first gate there was a propped up sign in the middle of the road saying the chapel was closed. However, I knew it wasn't and the big board to the left that showed the opening times for the day agreed with me. So we drove around the closed sign and went up anyway. There were at least 15 other people up there in the chapel and more came after us. So im not sure what happened there. It was breathtaking. Pictures do not even do it justice. What an amazing spot to feel gods presence! Highly recommended. Parking was plentiful when we went and easy in and out. There are porta potties if needed. There is also a handicapped ramp to get into the church if needed.
- TNTaraTheTraveler!4 months ago
Breathtaking Experience! Even the most beautiful pictures do NOT do this justice! And it’s free to the public! This should be seen by all! As I arrived just walking thru the entrance of the chapel was special and beautiful! And as you near the cross… there just are no words! Although it’s free there are donation boxes and you’ll be more than happy to donate to this cause! There were a lot of people that day but all were considerate of each other taking pics. Check the schedule before going up as they do close for events.
- Hannah Petersen4 months ago
I photograph lots of surprise proposals here at pretty place and it’s always so beautiful. Sunrise can be a bit busy but I recommend seeing a sunrise here at least once in your life. Pretty place is always beautiful rain or shine. Always check the website to make sure they are open before making the trip here it does get booked quickly for weddings/bookings.
- X D3 months ago
Beautiful place to visit with an amazing view. Unfortunately it can be ruined by the amount of people (especially “influencers”)trying to take pictures and standing around talking. Definitely recommend coming early in the morning before 10 AM. Overall though it’s a nice place to visit at least once.
- Tawnya Ouderkirk3 months ago
It was amazing! The grounds keeper/ security employee Michael was great! He couldn’t have been more helpful! We had drove 16 or so hours just to see this place and well we wouldn’t have seen it if it wasn’t for him. Thank u Michael for letting us experience this amazing place
- Stu Schulman3 months ago
After the tough trek up the winding roads, this place was amazing. Incredible views, quiet space. This is a must see.
- Makayla Taylor3 months ago
Never felt more at peace. Went as sun was setting. I’d recommend at sunrise seeing as driving back in the dark is hard. Really nice and grabbed pamphlets
- Vero Portillo5 months ago
It is amazing place to go and have a reflection time. It is free and you can take wonderful pictures. Place for couples to get engaged or families reunions . The view of the mountains looks perfect memories for everyone.
- DebbieLou9 months ago
Fred W. Symmes Chapel dubbed “The pretty place” located in Cleveland, South Carolina is a beautiful chapel! The chapel sits up above Stone Mountain at 3200 ft with stunning panoramic mountain views. There’s something very nostalgic about this place; the cross, the energy, the peacefulness. It’s a great place to visit, meditate, pray, watch a sunrise and just absorb the atmosphere. Engagement proposals, weddings, church services, etc. also occur. Met a lot of nice people and it’s a very respectful environment. Went on a Sunday and it was extremely busy. A must see/experience. Will definitely circle back. Note: Please check their website for hours of operations for public access — as the open hours may fluctuate. Not pets allowed. #HappyPlaces❤️
- Jeanie Huppert10 months ago
Its's the Most beautiful place i have even seen in my life! We were then around 7 and the traffic was backed up on the road due to no available parking but it was unusual for this to happen and it was worth the 1/4 mile walk to see that view!
Services and facilities
Facilities
- Porta-Potty-Style Bathrooms
- Donation Boxes
Events and programs
Weddings
As scheduled
Pretty Place Chapel is a popular venue for weddings and other private events.
Memorial Services
As scheduled
The chapel is available for memorial services and other private events.
Dedications
As scheduled
The chapel can be reserved for dedications and other special events.
Church Services
As scheduled
The chapel hosts church services, which can be very busy on Sundays.
Connect
- Contact page
- Open contact page