Surprise Lake is committed to providing an experience in Outdoor Education, Spiritual Development, and Personal Discovery.  People of all ages will find a positive environment for developing healthy friendships.

Surprise Lake Camp has been an outdoor escape since 1951. It was started by Reverend James Norquay, his wife Marg, and a handful of dedicated families and Churches; the camping practices have changed very little over the past 60 years. We still offer quality outdoor living, environmental and spiritual education, as well as friendships and adventures of a lifetime.

 

A typical day at camp will see between 6 and 15 staff (paid and volunteer) leading up to 35 campers to and from various activities. In the morning we have rotations of Christian/Spiritual Development, Canoeing/Waterfront, Crafts/Cabin time and Outdoor Education. In the afternoon we spend time on the beach, in cabins for rest hour and at interest group options. After dinner the entire camp plays a wide game (ie. capture the flag) before Campfire and Vespers finishes the night. 

 

Some special events at SLC include: Mudwalk, where we go on a hike through naturally muddy trails  getting completely covered in mud; Talent Show on the last night; Off-site snacks or meals cooked over the fire or on camping stoves; Overnights to "scout camp" where the campers build lean-to's to sleep in; Banquet dinner on the last night where we dress fancy and eat even more delicious tasting food; and countless other themed activities cooked up by our staff and volunteers.

 

We have developed the property over the past decades, no longer using tents as in the early 50's but small powered cabins. In our newly renovated kitchen, we have a brand new commercial stove and working walk-in cooler to accompany our brightly lit dining hall. Staying as rustic as ever, we just recently upgraded to basic flushing toilets!

 

With help from our volunteers, grants, donors and alumni our camp continues to run year after year, reaching its 60th anniversary in 2011. A huge hug to everyone involved from past to present and into the colourful future of this magnificent Camp.

"The Earth is the Lord's and the fullness thereof, 

the world and they that dwell therein" Psalm 24:1)

"I am come that ye might have life and have it 

more abundantly (John 10:10b)

- scriptures selected by Marg Norquay, to represent SLC's

philosophy and purpose.