At the foot of the towering Blue Ridge Mountains are the hills of our Camp Bethel.  Just 10 miles north of Roanoke, Camp Bethel is a historic site, a peaceful and remote sanctuary, yet closely accessible via I-81 and Route 11.  The vast Jefferson National Forest adjoins our 470 acres of hiking trails, ponds, streams, open meadows, forests, and rolling hills.  Camp Bethel offers affordable, comfortably modern, as well as quaint-rustic style facilities for year-round use.  Programming is planned to meet your needs, or the needs of your group, your family, and your church.

Camp Bethel is open and active all year.  June through August, we offer the area's best summer camping programs for children and youth, providing fun and challenge for both returning and first-time campers. We are proud of our excellent summer camping programs and our upstanding summer staff.   September through May, Camp Bethel is busy with guests for retreats and conferences, festivals, family weekends and ropes course experiences or school groups on weekdays for environmental education programs.

Our meals are excellent: We're proud to serve you during your retreat.  Remember to plan your next banquet in the Ark Dining Hall.

Our conference rooms are comfortable, spacious and just what you need for your sessions.  Come and hold a meeting in a conference room with a fireplace and a view.

If you are looking for a summer camp, a retreat center, a banquet site, a high/low ropes challenge, a day of outdoor education, or just a place to walk, hike, relax and commune with God, the Virlina District Church of the Brethren invites and welcomes you to come and discover Camp Bethel.

Statement of Purpose for Camp Bethel:  Our Mission:  Camp Bethel is the outdoor ministry of the Virlina District Church of the Brethren that seeks to foster and build relationships with the Creator, with others, and with creation.  This ministry is realized through two efforts, our Christian camping program and the availability of our facilities to all people.  The summer camping program includes activity-based learning and Bible study and encourages growth in interpersonal relationships, faith in God, and authentic Christian fellowship.  We adhere to a small group camping philosophy emphasizing the nurture and growth of an intentional Christian community.  Our programs offer progression into more adventure-based experiences for older campers, encouraging campers, staff and volunteers to return year after year.

Site Map of Camp Bethel    Directions to Camp Bethel

Who are the Church of the Brethren?