St. John has enjoyed a 49-acre peninsula on Clarks Hill (now Thurmond) Lake almost since the lake was created in 1954. The property is on South Carolina Highway 28, about 25 miles outside of Augusta. These wooded acres provide a natural retreat close to the city, with a sand beach for swimming, a pavilion and firepit overlooking the lake, a lodge with kitchen and dining area, and the Chapel Under the Pines.

The outdoor chapel was created in 1964. Every June and July, ministers from various denominations have preached each Sunday from a floating pulpit to a congregation seated in a natural amphitheater on the shore, or on boats anchored in the cove. During the months of Covid lockdown when our sanctuary in Augusta was closed, the chapel served as our church, the only place where members could gather safely for services.                      

St. John members come up here to camp, swim, picnic, boat, and relax in the breeze on the point overlooking the lake. Every evening, the sunset preaches a beautiful sermon.