1 of 4
Bernie & Judy Lehman photos
2 of 4
Bernie & Judy Lehman photos
3 of 4
Bernie & Judy Lehman photos
4 of 4
Bernie & Judy Lehman photos
Story and photos by Bernie & Judy Lehman
Sun Valley Trout Park Inc. is a family friendly business in the heart of the Fraser Valley on the north shore of the Fraser River in Mission, BC. We started in business in 1965 as a commercial trout farm selling trout to the food market as well as selling live trout to customers in BC, the Yukon and Alberta. U-catch fishing for kids large and small was also a part of our farm.
After 25 years of trout farming a wise " mother / mother in law " came upon a brainstorm! Having 27 acres of a small wooded valley with a stream, why not fully utilize the land and start a campground. It was a great idea and we ran with it. For the next 2-3 years we selectively cleared out areas in and around the stream and ponds and created campsites for both RVs and tent campers. Only there was one problem, RVers wanted serviced sites. So guess what? We spent the next 5 years putting in power, water and sewer. We also now offer free Wi-Fi. Throughout the development of the serviced sites we built a clubhouse with table tennis, shuffleboard and pool table. There is also a kitchen for small functions and a tennis court. In 2006 we, now getting older, decided to phase out our commercial trout farm and offer only u-catch fishing and camping.
Some of the wonderful moments we enjoy are seeing third generation kids come fishing with their grandparents and catching their first fish. On one occasion a young girl had a fish on her line when an osprey swooped down and stole her fish. The look on her face was priceless. By the way, we have fishing rods for rent and bait is available for those who need them. However everyone is welcome to bring his or her own equipment.
Many of our fishing customers bring lunch or a barbeque and spend the day. We have lots of picnic tables for use. On a good day, while fishing, our guests can observe wildlife such as bald eagles, osprey, herons, ducks, geese, otter, mink, deer, raccoons and if lucky a bear and her cubs. Salmon come in the fall to spawn in our stream.
Over the years we have gained a reputation for being a great first or a last night stop for people bicycling across Canada. We make them welcome with lower than normal rates and give them a covered area if raining and a hot shower. Sometimes a ride to the bike shop is also offered when repairs are needed. We always like to go that extra mile for our customers. At one times we had as many 65 cyclists at once.
In gratitude to bicyclists who have served their country, we give a complimentary stay. We had several stay the last two years. They tell us that biking across Canada helps heal the soul and is very therapeutical. During the spring, summer and early fall we host travellers from many countries usually in smaller motor homes who travel in and around Alberta and BC. We do speak a little German, and that helps, at least for people from Germany, Switzerland and Austria. We try our best with guests who speak little English. With our close proximity to Vancouver, a friendly family atmosphere, beautiful quiet surrounding, a neighbouring golf course and competitive pricing, we invite people to come and visit us and enjoy a few days if not months.
So don’t winterize your RV, we have low monthly rates throughout the winter from $420 including tax. (604) 826-6471.