In 1952, a small group of very forward-thinking women had a vision of a summer camp for girls and were brave enough to turn it into the reality that we know today as Ryde Lake Camp.

Ryde was originally started to provide a summer camp for members of Toronto CGIT groups. In the 50s, CGIT (Canadian Girls In Training) was a thriving girl's organization in many of the large Protestant denominations. 

With the decline of CGIT members in the 70s and 80s, changes were made to reflect the changing camper population and to open the camp to all girls.

Today we welcome everyone to Ryde, respecting and celebrating the diverse backgrounds of our campers and staff.

Spirituality is still very much a part of camp. Camp is a safe, respectful place to explore faith and spirituality. 

A quote from the Camp Site Committee Annual Report of May 1952 reads: 

“This was a real venture in faith, as it meant assuming a large mortgage, but we felt that it would be justified in the enrichment it would give to hundreds of girls who camp there amid beautiful, natural surroundings.”

How blessed we are to be the beneficiaries of the wisdom and foresight of those founding women so many years ago!