Summer Camp

2024 dates and themes

June 16-22 (Earth Week): SOLD OUT (waitlist created)

June 23-29 (Jurassic Ranch Week): SOLD OUT (waitlist created)

June 30-July 6 (Holiday Week): 19 spots left

July 7-13 (Can You Feel the Beat Week): SOLD OUT (waitlist created)

July 14-20 (Game Show Week): SOLD OUT (waitlist created)

July 21-27 (Wild West Week): SOLD OUT (waitlist created)

July 28-August 3 (Olympics Week): SOLD OUT (waitlist created)

White Pines Ranch is a co-ed, sleepaway summer camp for kids ages 8 to 15, uniquely located on a 200-acre ranch in the beautiful Rock River Valley 90 miles west of Chicago.  We offer a traditional, classic camp program, where our unique summer camp philosophy allows campers to bond and become like family through the many activities we provide.  65 Summers Family Owned and Operated.

Our enrollment is limited to 70 campers per session. Keeping our camp family small makes it easy for everyone to feel included and make genuine connections. With the help of our returning campers, a strong sense of family develops quickly. As a part of the family, each camper is invited to contribute to the positive environment of encouragement, caring, and connection. Making friends is easy when you are in an environment that celebrates uniqueness and authenticity. White Pines Ranch is a place where fears are conquered and identities found.

In today’s high-pressure world of screens, we all need a chance to take a step back and really rest- take time to just be, listen to the sounds of nature, and take time to process. As we unplug from technology, we find joy and peace. Summer camp at White Pines Ranch is a perfect way to decompress and make life-long memories.

We believe a connection to nature is crucial for all children and our program provides the opportunity to fall in love with the great outdoors. The nature surrounding the ranch beckons exploration and adventure. Opportunities for new experiences that expand physical and social skills abound.

Opportunities to experience and learn are abundant. A variety of horsemanship experiences are available – from grooming and saddling to feeding and equine health. Hunting for fossils in the natural limestone quarry provides a look into rocks formed a long, long time ago and a possible souvenir. Hiking in the naturally formed sandstone canyon provides great photos with different plants and trees – and a cool spot on a warm summer day. Youth also enjoy the Critter Corral with our retired horses waiting for some senior feed and petting. 

Moms and Dads appreciate the wonderful aspects of the Ranch program. 

• Our dedicated and caring staff that includes teachers and college students. Most of whom are former campers.

• The all-inclusive fee includes food, lodging, and all activities.
• Our certified lifeguards for the clean, stainless-steel pool that provides hours of fun with friends
• The all-you-care-to-eat buffet, prepared by licensed cooks in our modern kitchen, provides 3 meals and a snack daily. Drinks and a fruit bowl are always available, too – and our souvenir shop offers additional options.
• Our family’s commitment to young people. We three sisters continue to provide a safe, welcoming environment for young people, just like our parents, who started the Ranch 65 years ago.

The all-inclusive weekly fee for 2024 is $825.00 per week; check-in on Sunday, and check-out is the following Saturday. 

Campers staying for more than one week has an additional day included for free. We include a special ride, activities, and food at no additional cost. 

A $100.00 DEPOSIT PER WEEK IS REQUIRED WITH REGISTRATION. This deposit is refundable if cancelation is made at least 30 days before your arrival date – no exceptions!

Each week of summer camp includes all of the listed activities and includes the same amount of horse time. The themes are for the counselors to spread their creative wings during game time and craft time.