Camp Coffman was founded in 1923 by the late J.P. Coffman, a volunteer commissioner of the former Colonel Drake Boy Scout Council. Camp Coffman operated as a full scale boy scout camp until 1976 when financial trouble caused it to close. The 350 acre camp was sold in 1982 to a local business, with plans to selectively harvest the camp’s timber, while still allowing youth or community groups to use the grounds. Since then, the lease to the property has bounced between church-related owners that kept the property open to the public, but were unable to maintain operations. The Oil City Area YMCA (including our Clarion County branch) had used the grounds for their summer day camp in 2007, and has been in control of the property since the beginning of 2008.

Today, the Oil City YMCA owns and operates the 240 acre YMCA Camp Coffman. The Dining Hall and Grounds can be rented for a family gathering, wedding reception, reunion or community event.

There is a selection of beautiful cabins to rent for an overnight stay, a spacious bunkhouse for a larger group, and lots of land to explore. There is a 500ft zip line where people can ride through the air over East Sandy Creek.

A climbing tower to challenge beginner, intermediate or advanced climbers and an Adventure Course to promote group cooperation and team building skills. The Zip Line, Climbing Tower, and Adventure Course are available to groups by advance reservation. Many area residents remember the popular swinging bridge which has been completely restored. Camp guests may hike on groomed trails to Deer Rock, Balancing Rock and Eagle Rock. In addition, canoes, kayaks, paddleboats, fishing poles, playground and sports field are all available to use by camp guests.

During the summer, the YMCA operates a day camp program that offers 12 weeks of different themes for children to enjoy. Children ages 6-12 enjoy the summer program which is offered weekdays and includes traditional outdoor activities such as: fishing, hiking, swimming, canoeing, crafts, games and horseback riding. Transportation from the Oil City YMCA and Clarion County YMCA is provided.

If you would like more information about YMCA Camp Coffman and the great programs, please call the Oil City YMCA at 814-677-3000.