Local Treehouse Cabin Inspired by Animal Planet’s ‘Treehouse Masters’

Michelle Murray - YMCA

Michelle Murray - YMCA

Published October 17, 2018 4:31 am
Local Treehouse Cabin Inspired by Animal Planet’s ‘Treehouse Masters’

CRANBERRY, Pa. (EYT) – When Tom Spence, CEO of the Scenic Rivers YMCA,  met Pete Nelson, star of Animal Planet’s “Treehouse Masters,” he already had a plan for a cabin that was inspired by the show.  Just a few years later, that cabin has become a very popular destination for many.

(Photo above: Tom Spence, CEO of the Scenic Rivers YMCA, with Pete Nelson of “Treehouse Masters”.  The two met on a trip in 2015 in Seattle, Washington.)

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<p>A Treehouse Cabin inspired by Treehouse Masters, a reality TV show on Animal Planet, is the latest addition to YMCA Camp Coffman. The two-story cabin sleeps eight, has a full kitchen, indoor plumbing, and beautiful forest views.</p>
<p>About 10 volunteers built the cabin, with roofing installed by the Amish and some additional work by Tionesta Builders Supply.</p>
<p>Spence’s love of Treehouse Masters was also fueled by a visit to Seattle, Washington, last year with Jesse Kelley, program director of the Clarion County YMCA, to view some exciting new YMCA buildings to incorporate into the planned Clarion County YMCA. While there, Spence took the opportunity to also visit the Treehouse Masters and talk to their people.</p>
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<p>After the visit, Spence hatched some plans for an addition to Camp Coffman. Working on the “cheap,” Spence recruited a small but dedicated group of volunteers including his son and daughter for the construction of cabin number nine. He also praises the work of two volunteers, Larry Schmader and Raymond Beichner.</p>
<p>“A gentleman out of Tionesta built our railings, chairs around the bar, and did some of our furniture,” said Spence. “Some of that was in trade because his son had a wedding in April, and his son asked if we would trade furniture for a wedding. He’s got a store on Main Street in Tionesta.”</p>
<p>Since the completion of the Treehouse and the addition of heat in the banquet hall, weddings have booked almost every weekend throughout the year.  The Treehouse Cabin is the perfect spot for the bride and groom and eight other cabins house wedding parties and guests after the celebrations.</p>
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<p>YMCA Camp Coffman rents cabins in every season and encourages people to book in advance due to the demand.</p>
<p>Camp Coffman also offers activities such as a zip line, climbing wall, group team building, and trail rides on a seasonal basis from April 15 through October 15, depending on the weather.  Hiking trails on the property lead to Deer Rock, Balancing Rock, and throughout the forest.</p>
<p>While the cabins have been a definite draw for the facility, especially weekend weddings, Spence doesn’t think any more of the smaller cabins are needed for the time being.</p>
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<p>“We’re focusing more on activities and what there is to do that’s fun and things that don’t require much manpower,” said Spence. “Then again,” looking at the new Treehouse, “four years ago this wasn’t in my head either.”</p>
<p>Rentals start in September at $175.00 a night. Call the Oil City YMCA at 814-677-3000 to make a reservation.</p>
<p>For more information, visit the website at www.campcoffman.com/Treehouse or on Facebook at <a href=https://www.facebook.com/YMCACampCoffman.

About Camp Coffman

YMCA Camp Coffman is owned and operated by the Scenic Rivers YMCA including the Oil City YMCA and the Clarion County YMCA.  For more information about Camp Coffman, visit www.campcoffman.com or call the Oil City YMCA at 814-677-3000.

(Article submitted by Michelle Murray, Marketing & Membership Director, Clarion County YMCA, Oil City YMCA, and YMCA Camp Coffman)

Clarion County YMCA and exploreClarion.com have partnered to provide the community with YMCA News. This is an exclusive article only found on exploreClarion.com. 

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