The Surprise Laker

Fall '25

Please RSVP to hello@surpriselake.ca or Arthur at (780) 974-9557

If you are interested in making a donation towards our project,
you can e-transfer treasurer@surpriselake.com or send to
Surprise Lake Society, Box 6392, Edson AB, T7E 1T8

Grey Cup Raffle

2025 Grey Cup Raffle

Support projects at camp

and have a shot at some great cash prizes!


Here's how it works:
  • 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:
  • 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.

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!

Tickets available from hello@surpriselake.ca, through society members, or by calling Jim at (780) 686-9942
“Though the branches are cut back, the roots remain strong. What is pruned today prepares the way for tomorrow’s growth.”
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United Church Severance

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.

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.
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.
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.
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.

We are not saying goodbye to our past. We are carrying it with us as we embrace a new beginning.

Read the full history of SLC and the United Church in "Camping in a Semi Wilderness Setting" by Andriel Stoeckel

Thank You!

A big thank you to Yellowhead County for keeping our lights on! The funds from the Operational Grant will cover 50% of eligible expenses!

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.

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:
  • 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!

e-transfer treasurer@surpriselake.ca or click on the button to get your membership or make a donation.

Meet the Board!

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"
Arthur White Owl
Chair Person
Natalka Dreichel
Secretary
IMG_1282
John Jones
Director of Maintenance
Colleen LaForge-Griebel
Vice-Chair
Jeannette Stabile
Treasurer
Jim Wirth
Member-at-large
Kerrie Christie
Member-at-large
DJ Warner
Member-at-large
April Keighan
Member-at-large
Danielle Mathias
Member-at-large
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Box 6392
Edson, AB T7E 1T8
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