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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.”
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The Latest News & Updates
Join us for a volunteer work weekend!
Come give back to a place that has given so much to so many people. On Saturday, Nov 2nd we invite you to help us keep Chanco beautiful. We will be doing an assortment of projects. These projects will include painting, landscaping, and even some light carpentry. If...
Carter’s Walk – October 5, 2019
The Rev. Carter Sinclair, Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Virginia Beach The Rev. Carter Sinclair, Deacon at Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Virginia Beach, has made a commitment to walk 65 kilometers for his 65thbirthday! Carter hopes to complete this walk in 12 hours or less...
Women’s Retreat in Lent
Join women from all over the diocese at Chanco's Semi-Annual Women's Retreat. Come together with meaningful discussions, spiritually renewing worship, and fabulous fellowship. This event is open to women 18 years and older. This years theme will be Room at the table...
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