Our Story
Faithful Stewards of God’s Grace
Today, Camp Canaan is a nationally-recognized member of the Christian Camp & Conference Association that annually serves more than 10,000 summer camp participants, weekend retreat guests, and day event visitors. The existence and success of Camp Canaan is evidence of answered prayers, unwavering discipleship, joyful sweat equity, and the tremendous generosity of individuals, families, and foundation and corporate partners.
The Vision
The Whatleys & The Wimmers
The story of Camp Canaan began in 2003 when two couples – Aana Lisa and Jim Whatley and Nick and Tiffany Wimmer – met to share the desires God had placed in their hearts to develop a unique ministry on a 100-acre island in the Catawba River in Rock Hill, SC.
The Whatleys had owned the property for several years, ready to someday serve as instruments of God’s love and, somehow, use the land as a blessing to children and families. Together with the Wimmers, they embarked on an exciting journey that would include many, thankfully-surmountable, obstacles. They were able to rezone the property for commercial use, provide mainland access and fire safety across a bridge, and create a 10-year master plan that received approval from local authorities.
With each challenge God faithfully overcame, moving the vision into a full-blown reality while maturing the leadership and the details of the ministry. In 2004, Camp Canaan was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and a Board of Trustees was formed.
The Beginning
God’s Bountiful Blessings
In 2008, construction began on the first phase of the 10-year plan. Two cabins, a picnic pavilion, and a multi-purpose building were built and, in 2009, we opened our doors for our inaugural season of summer camp programs and fall retreats. We served 30 campers and hosted a handful of retreats and day event guests that first year. By the time we crossed into our sixth year of operation, we had served more than 8,000!
In time, we were blessed to make such immense improvements as adding a Junior Olympic-sized pool complex, world-class zipline canopy tour, high adventure course, and a championship disc golf course. Additionally, we not only added a full suite of kayaking and other water-based activity equipment, but we were also able to build more-than-adequate storage facilities for all of it.
Most recently, we have added a new Welcome Center, which includes a staffed infirmary and a camp store; two more cabins (both with laundry facilities); a climbing tower, second playground, and covered basketball court; Lake Canaan, and more. In August, we broke ground on a dedicated dining hall that, once finished, will allow us to seat and feed our campers and guests.
The Ministry
Philosophy, Mission, Vision, Values
With the leadership of our Board of Trustees, Executive Director, the continued support of donors and partners, and the unyielding commitment of the God-formed community here at Canaan, the faithful work of Christ continues to grow here on the island each year.
Our Philosophy of Ministry
Serving others to reflect life’s greatest adventure in Christ.
Our Mission
To provide specialized outdoor experiences that encourage growth in faith, including a deeper relationship with Christ and others in the environment of summer camps, retreats, and adventure programs.
Our Vision
Camp Canaan will become the most highly valued recreational and retreat camp in this region, providing a Christ-centered experience for youth campers as well as churches, businesses and others seeking to grow in life and faith.
Our Values
Growth
We believe that everyone should be growing, so we will help each individual discover their purpose and grow in the destiny God has for them.
Stewardship
We believe that God has made us accountable to care for the earth and everything in it.
Safety
We will create and maintain a safe environment for our participants on the premises and through the programs we offer, always serving in love.
Grace & Generosity
We will make every effort to provide financial relief for families who cannot afford the tuition for programs, and always seek to offer grace to others just as Christ has shown grace to us.
Character & Integrity
We will operate and manage every facet of the organization with integrity; upholding the vision and mission at all times.
Collaboration
We will seek opportunities to work with others in the community, partnering with local organizations and assisting with their efforts when consistent with our mission.
Volunteerism
We will promote a spirit of volunteerism including a volunteer Board of Trustees and others that feel called to serve the mission and vision of the Camp.
Professional Affiliations
Camp Canaan is a member of the Christian Camp & Conference Association and the York County Regional Chamber.
