Aerial survey view of Children's Graveyard (Duncan Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery)Aerial survey · USDA NAIP · public domain
Cemetery / Burial Ground

Children's Graveyard (Duncan Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery)

A small, old hillside burial ground off Old Buncombe Road near Furman University in Greenville, SC, locally called the 'Children's Graveyard,' where visitors report lights, laughter, and running sounds among 18th- and 19th-century graves.

Old Buncombe Road (near University Square), Greenville, SC 29617

Research updated May 2026

Age

All Ages

Cost

Free

Historic cemetery; no admission. Respect the grounds and any posted access rules.

Access

Limited Access

Small wooded hillside cemetery reached by a short unmarked trail; uneven ground.

Equipment

Photos OK

Children's laughter heard among the gravesSounds of children runningUnexplained lights and dark mistSudden unease or waves of strong emotion

According to Random Connections, South Carolina Haunted Houses, and regional Greenville ghost coverage, the legend of the 'Children's Graveyard' holds that the small hilltop cemetery is animated by the spirits of children. The most commonly reported phenomena are auditory: visitors describe hearing children's laughter and the patter of running feet among the markers, often when no one else is present. Others report seeing unexplained lights, a dark mist, or feeling sudden disorientation and waves of uncontrolled emotion when on the grounds.

The lore is tied closely to the cemetery's nickname, even though, as the history section notes, the site does not actually hold an unusual number of children's graves — a discrepancy that local researchers point to as evidence the legend grew in the retelling. The cemetery's secluded, wooded setting and the age of its markers (some reportedly dating to the 1700s) have made it a long-standing destination for Greenville legend-trippers.

This listing presents the activity as reported folklore rather than verified fact. Visitors should also be aware of practical, non-paranormal hazards documented at the site: it is reached by an unmarked trail, sits near a police facility, and wildlife including bobcats has reportedly been seen in the area. HauntBound encourages respectful daytime visits and discourages the trespass and vandalism that have damaged this historic burial ground.

Notable Entities

Spirits of children, per local folklore

Plan Your Visit

1 way to experience
Self-Guided Visit

Children's Graveyard Visit

A short walk to a small, historic hillside cemetery with markers dating to the 1700s and 1800s, long the subject of Greenville ghost lore.

Duration:
30 min

Sources & Further Reading

Every HauntBound history is researched from documented sources. We clearly separate verified historical fact from paranormal folklore.

  1. 1.randomconnections.com/the-childrens-graveyard
  2. 2.southcarolinahauntedhouses.com/real-haunt/childrens-graveyard--duncan-chapel-methodist-church-cemetery.html
  3. 3.travelersresthere.com/childrens-cemetery-unusual-things-south-carolina
  4. 4.findagrave.com/cemetery/2182091/duncan-chapel-methodist-church-cemetery

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Children's Graveyard (Duncan Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery) family-friendly?
A quiet historic cemetery; the lore centers on children's spirits rather than gore. The trail is unmarked and wooded, and wildlife (including bobcats) has been reported, so daytime visits with supervision are advised. Overall family fit: Moderate.
How much does it cost to visit Children's Graveyard (Duncan Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery)?
Historic cemetery; no admission. Respect the grounds and any posted access rules. This location is free to visit.
Do I need to book in advance?
No advance booking is required, but checking availability is recommended.
Is Children's Graveyard (Duncan Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery) wheelchair accessible?
Children's Graveyard (Duncan Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery) has limited wheelchair accessibility. Terrain: Small wooded hillside cemetery reached by a short unmarked trail; uneven ground..