Camp on the Bluff Comes of Age

Nearly a decade later, Ryan Rice is still leading the way.

When Ryan Rice and her friends started Camp on the Bluff the summer before sixth grade, they were simply looking for a way to share their love of sports with younger children. Nearly a decade later, that idea has grown into a popular summer tradition for Lake Bluff families, held at her family home on Ravine Avenue.

“We were super into sports,” Rice said. “Our initial idea was to start a sports camp for kids.”

The camp originally focused on activities such as soccer, basketball and volleyball. As the years passed, Rice and her team saw a need for a broader summer camp experience and expanded their programming. Along the way, Rice created a website with online registration, launched an Instagram account and developed Camp on the Bluff merchandise.

Now a rising sophomore at the University of Michigan, Rice continues to lead the camp she helped create at age 11.

She encourages young people with ideas of their own to take the first step.

“My friends and I weren’t aware of how much our camp would grow and evolve,” she said. “If it is something you are truly passionate about and love doing, keep working hard at it and ask for help when needed.”

Over the years, Rice has navigated challenges ranging from weather concerns and waitlists to operating during the COVID pandemic. Through it all, she says the experience has taught her leadership, accountability and effective communication.

Perhaps most importantly, Rice credits the Lake Bluff community for the camp’s success.

“We definitely wouldn’t have had as much success as we’ve had if it weren’t for the positive feedback and word of mouth throughout the community,” she said.

While Rice loved her first year away at college, it only strengthened her appreciation for her hometown.

“Nothing will ever beat the community we are so lucky to have in Lake Bluff,” she said.

For Rice and her friends, Camp on the Bluff is proof that a simple idea, combined with hard work and community support, can grow into something lasting.