COVID Guidelines Update

Women's Advent Retreat

December 4-5, 2020

Overnight, day-use, and live streaming registration options are available.

Parents and Pals Winter Day Camp

January 16, 2021

Geared for ages 7-12 with a guardian, this is the perfect opportunity to check out Chanco before attending a one or two-week session this summer!

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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.

book a stay with us

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.

BOOK A RETREAT

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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.

REGISTER FOR CAMP

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.”

Jessica Denomme

Camper '08 - '10, Church of the Redeemer

“We had a great retreat! You are our Diocesan retreat center! We tell EVERYBODY (all other Canterbury groups) what a great place Chanco is!”

Rev. John Maxwell Kerr

Reverend, Canterbury, William & Mary

“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.”

Dave Belote

Camper & Staff Member, '71 - '85, Partner & CEO, DARE Strategies LLC

our blog

The Latest News & Updates

Columbus Day Letter from Bishop Haynes

Oct 12, 2020

On Monday, October 12, Chanco and the offices of the Diocese of Southern Virginia will be closed. Officially the day, known as “Columbus Day,” commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus on American soil in 1492. The arrival of Columbus paved the way for...

Chanco Chatter: E-Newsletter Digest

Aug 9, 2020

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

Jul 13, 2020

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...