Statement from the Otipemisiwak Métis Government on the Peace River Campground
Posted on: Jun 04, 2025
We extend our congratulations to Peace River Adventures and wish them success as they bring their vision for the former Lions Campground to life.
While we are disappointed that our proposal was not selected, we are proud of the vision we put forward. For generations, Métis people have lived, worked, and built community in Peace River. The campground lands themselves hold historical significance for our Citizens, whose families helped found the community now known as Peace River Crossing.
We want to thank the many Citizens, local partners, and supporters who helped shape our vision – one that would have transformed the site into a cultural and recreational hub, an inclusive space that honoured the past, celebrated Métis identity, and welcomed visitors of all backgrounds. With trail networks connecting local attractions, and interpretive experiences rooted in our stories, it was an opportunity to take reconciliation from words to action by returning a piece of land to the people who helped shape it. Two well-known landmarks in Peace River, Athabasca Hall and St. James Cathedral, exist because of a generous Métis man named Paul Wesley. He donated the land
from his Scrip certificate so they could be built.
“As the Citizens’ Representative for the Peace River Métis District, I am disappointed by the Town of Peace River’s decision. The Otipemisiwak Métis Government submitted a comprehensive proposal to acquire the site as a meaningful step toward reconciliation. While we’re disappointed that this decision misses the moment, the spirit of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government will not be dampened. We remain committed to working with the Town of Peace River to create space for Métis culture, connection, and community, and we will continue building that future. My hope is the Town of Peace River shares our commitment to meaningful reconciliation. I am also aware that Canadian National Railway sold its portion of the land to Peace River Adventures. I was under the impression that reconciliation was a big part of CN’s identity, but I find that hard to believe seeing as how we were never consulted or even made aware that it was considering selling the land. It’s another example of words not equaling actions.” Barry Dibb, Citizens Representative for Peace River Métis District.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kenny Trenton, Press Secretary
ktrenton@metis.org
780-455-2200 Ext. 245