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The Spiritual Heart of the Diocese of Southern Virginia
Chanco on the James is a retreat center for youth and adults as well as one of the longest running summer camp programs in Virginia. An outdoor ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Virginia, Chanco is a spiritual place for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.
A ministry of the Episcopal Church in the Diocese of Southern Virginia, Chanco is open year-round to meet all of your retreat needs.
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Conferences & Retreats
Chanco is a perfect location for church retreats, corporate groups, youth programs, and families who want a remote location to relax, learn, and connect.
Sandy beaches, excellent dining, and peaceful accommodations will make you feel like you are staying at a private resort.
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Camp Chanco
Our residential camp offers a wealth of traditional activities, including high and low ropes courses, zip lining, archery, pool activities, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and sailing, as well as nature instruction and arts and crafts classes.
We offer an ACA accredited summer camp program for youth ages 8-16.
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The #1 Summer Camp in Virginia
For 6 years in a row, Chanco has earned the top spot as “Best Summer Camp” by Virginia Living magazine. Thank you to everyone who voted!
Testimonials
Words from our Wonderful Visitors
“I will always carry the Chanco spirit with me no matter how old or far away I am. Thank you for everything you have done for me. By introducing me to Chanco, my life has been changed. I have met great life-long friends and have definitely been brought closer to God.”
“We had a great retreat! You are our Diocesan retreat center! We tell EVERYBODY (all other Canterbury groups) what a great place Chanco is!”
“I got the foundation of my success as a military commander as a counselor and Program Director on the banks of the James…I’ve never stopped practicing what I learned at camp.”
our blog
The Latest News & Updates
Chanco Chatter: E-Newsletter Digest
Stay up-to-date with the latest from Chanco with the Chanco Chatter e-newsletter: July 2020: Chanco is open for retreats!June 2020: Our staff gives thanks for youJune 12, 2020: Family Camping at ChancoJune 18, 2020: Staying connected to our campersSpecial Edition:...
Help Chanco Win a Printing Grant
Conquest Graphics offers up to $5,000 in free printing services to the non-profit with the most votes. Help Chanco win by clicking this logo, choosing “Chanco on the James” and submitting your vote today! It takes just two minutes of your time. Now more than ever...
Bishop Letters on the Death of George Floyd
June 1, 2020 We cannot continue to be silent. Too long we have refused to receive the breath of the Holy Spirit. Martin Luther King, Jr. said “There comes a time when silence is betrayal.” In our silence we have dismissed the indiscriminate killing and violence levied...
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