Archery Hunt (September?)
or
Rifle Hunt (October, November?)

Makes a difference in how critical the tree stand is.

In either case I would revisit the area and know exactly what my plan (find stand/build stand/do without stand) is before I' m walking through the forest in the dark the opening day of the season.

Go back to he who gave you the tip, explain what you saw and see if he can " zero you in" a bit. He may be endeared that you at least took the effort to go and look and attempt to find it. Explore the possibility that perhaps the stand came down. Perhaps the spot has been productive for him because the stand is hard to see. Be sure there are no assumptions between him and yourself as to what a " stand" is -- have him draw you a picture including how high up of the ground.

EKM