The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is pleased to announce the completion of Jimmy’s Treehouse which opened to the public on Saturday, July 17, 2021. 

Jimmy’s Treehouse is yet another exciting enhancement to the grounds at the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, made possible through the Enhancing Your Outdoor Classroom: Campaign for the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes, and a generous donation from the Lincoln Family.  Open during regular Nature Center hours, the treehouse is ADA-accessible and overlooks the scenic Stearns Woodland Trail. Offering access to nature for people of all ages and abilities, Jimmy’s Treehouse will be a new outdoor location for visitors, summer campers and school groups to enjoy.

Jimmy’s Treehouse is named after the late James F. Lincoln Jr.   Jimmy was a playful spirit, who was often heard saying, “The only problem with children is there are not enough of them!”  All are welcome to visit and explore the treehouse, designed by Nelson Treehouse & Supply, LLC (Fall City, WA) of the famed ‘Treehouse Masters’ TV show, and constructed by John G. Johnson Construction Company (Cleveland, OH).  Visitors will see firsthand how this recently constructed feature allows visitors to explore and more deeply immerse themselves in nature and the outdoors.

Jimmy’s Treehouse is one component of a larger, multi-phase $6.1 million capital campaign to restore and reinvigorate the Nature Center at Shaker Lakes’ outdoor classroom.  Currently in its final year, the capital campaign will allow the Nature Center to transform the visitor experience and enhance the property with new, unique features, interpretive elements and restored native habitats.

“Each of our new features, including Jimmy’s Treehouse, are transforming the Nature Center into a local destination.  It is yet another example of many new, engaging trail features that will help adults and children spend more time outdoors while gaining a deeper appreciation for and connection to nature,” says president and CEO Kay Carlson.

The final phase of this transformative campaign includes enhanced neighborhood entrances and a new children’s nature play area.  Projects are slated for completion in fall 2021.  Opportunities to support this transformative campaign are still available.  Specifically, The Kelvin and Eleanor Smith Foundation has generously offered to match all campaign gifts of $100 or more through August 31 — up to $100,000.  Donations can be made online at www.shakerlakes.org/outdoorclassroom.

The Nature Center at Shaker Lakes is located at 2600 South Park Boulevard in Shaker Heights.