The Surprise Laker
Spring '25
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Fire Smarting project
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To Everything (Turn, Turn, Turn)...
To those who know and love Surprise Lake Camp — you understand the special kind of magic it holds. For many of us, the camp has felt timeless. The scent of pine needles underfoot, the filtered light through the trees, the feeling of peace that settles in your bones when you arrive — it’s all part of what makes this place feel like home.
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But even the most enduring places must change to survive.
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This winter, as part of our ongoing fire-smarting and safety initiatives — with the support of Alberta Environment and Parks, and funding from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) — we made the incredibly difficult decision to remove a large number of trees from the south side of the camp.
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It was a vital step to protect this sacred place from wildfire and falling trees — but the aftermath is raw: stumps, debris, and a landscape that feels… different.
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When you return, you may be shocked. The forested camp you remember is no longer what it once was. The trees stood sentinel over generations of campers; they witnessed starry nights, campfire songs, and shaded joyful moments we’ll never forget. Now the atmosphere of the camp feels altered…we feel it too.
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A time to plant, a time to heal —
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We’ll be honest — the tree removal didn’t go as exactly as planned. It turned into a much bigger job than anticipated, mistakes were made, and it’s left behind a landscape in distress. Our funds are depleted, our roads are damaged, and the land is in urgent need of healing.
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We need you — now more than ever — to roll up your sleeves, dig deep, and join us in the work of renewal. Our Spring Work Weekend is May 17-19.
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We are calling on all those who love Surprise Lake Camp: past campers, staff, volunteers, and friends. Let’s honor the past not just with memories, but with action. Together, we can replant, rebuild, and revive.
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The forest will grow again — with your help.
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Work Weekend - May 17-19
A time to build up, a time to gather —
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Bring your work gloves, your heart, and your stories. Surprise Lake Camp has always been shaped by those who love it — and with your help, it always will be “for the campers, by the campers.”
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Let’s write the next chapter together.
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Whether it’s through a donation, a weekend of volunteer time, supporting our fundraisers or simply spreading the word — we need everyone to pitch in. This isn’t just about fixing roads or planting trees. It’s about honoring the legacy of a place that has given so much to so many.
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Please RSVP to hello@surpriselake.ca or to Arthur at 780 974-9557
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If you are interested in making a donation towards our project,
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Surprise Lake Society, Box 6392, Edson AB, T7E 1T8
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A time to every purpose, under heaven.
The forest will return…
The spirit will remain.
And with your help, Surprise Lake Camp will continue to be a place of peace, purpose, and connection — for generations to come.
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Thank you for your love, your support, and your belief in this place.
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With gratitude and determination,
The Surprise Lake Society
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Grey Cup Raffle
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We're excited to launch our 2025 Grey Cup Raffle - a fun and easy way to support projects at the camp and have a shot at some great cash prizes!
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- tickets are just $5 each
- Only 900 tickets are available- grab yours before they're gone!
- Each ticket has two numbers: East team score & West team score
Payouts happen every quarter of the Grey Cup game:
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- Match the exact score at the end of Q1, Q2, Q3: Win $200!
- Got the reverse score (East/West swapped)? Win $50!
- Match the final score: Win $1000
- Final score reverse: Still win $50
Whether you're a football fan or just love a good game for a great cause, this is your chance to get in on the action! Proceeds go directly to camp development, site renewal and ensuring the next generation gets to experience the magic of Surprise Lake.
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Let's make this our most successful fundraiser yet! Get your ticket, cheer on your numbers, and help keep the spirit of SLC alive and thriving!
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Tickets available from hello@surpriselake.ca, through society members, or by calling Jim at (780) 686-9942
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United Church Severance
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Since 1951, Surprise Lake Camp has been a place where generations of campers, volunteers, and staff have found belonging, beauty, and purpose. Born from the vision of Rev. James Norquay and his wife Marg, the camp grew from tents and rustic cookhouses into a full-fledged summer tradition.
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For more than 65 years, Surprise Lake Camp thrived with the generous support of United Church of Canada congregations across Alberta — church communities that showed up again and again with time, resources, and heart.
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Summer camp programming came to an end in 2017. After years of discernment and dialogue, the Surprise Lake Society has officially severed its legal ties with the United Church of Canada. This decision, made with care and respect, reflects our desire to serve a broader community and expand our eligibility for new grants and funding opportunities.
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We are deeply grateful to the United Church of Canada for decades of spiritual and material support. We hold this chapter of our history with reverence and pride. It shaped who we are.
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As we move forward, we do so rooted in gratitude — carried by the legacy of those who built this place and lifted by the promise of what’s to come. The Surprise Lake Society remains committed to building a space where people gather to reconnect with nature, community, and themselves — and we invite all who love this place to join us in that work.
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We are not saying goodbye to our past. We are carrying it with us as we embrace a new beginning.
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Thank You!
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A big thank you to Yellowhead County for keeping our lights on! The funds from the Operational Grant will cover 50% of eligible expenses!
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Become a Society Member
We are deeply grateful for the generous support of our members. Your contributions enable us to continually enhance our facilities, ensuring an exceptional venue for group events.
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In 2024, society memberships covered 25% of our operating expenses—a testament to the vital role our members play in our success. By becoming a member, you unlock a range of benefits, including:
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- A 15% discount on rentals
- Voting privileges at our Annual General Meeting
- Flexible volunteer opportunities
Memberships are available for $50 per individual or $100 per family and renew annually from the date of purchase. Join us today and help us continue to provide unforgettable experiences at Surprise Lake Camp!
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Meet the Board!
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Surprise Lake Society Vision: Our long term goal is to become "a fully viable facility where people can come to connect with nature, others & one's self"
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