Nestled in the heart of Kershaw County, Camden invites you to dive into centuries of storytelling, heritage, and unexpected treasures. History isn’t something you passively read here — it lives and breathes. Whether you’re drawn to the echoes of the Revolutionary War ⚔️, the legacies of the African American community, or the rich tapestry of local genealogy and sport 🐎 — you’ll find a museum experience that fits your curiosity.
🎨 Why Visit Camden’s Museums?
From towering pines at historic battle sites 🌲 to quiet galleries and community-centered cultural centers, Camden’s museum scene offers both depth and personality. Here, you’re not just walking through exhibits — you’re stepping into the story of the City: the past, the people, and their triumphs.
This center brings to light the often-untold history of Camden’s African American community — through exhibits, events, and meaningful conversations. A great place to reflect and learn how local stories contribute to a richer, broader American story.
More than a gallery, this creative hub offers expanded programming, vibrant energy, and an opportunity to engage with the arts side of Camden. Whether you’re into visual art, performing arts, or community events, this center adds an inspiring layer to your visit.
If you’re a history buff or genealogy explorer, this museum is for you. With one of the finest collections in South Carolina for local historical and genealogical records, it’s perfect for discovering the stories of generations past.
Camden is known as the “Steeplechase Capital of the World” — and this museum captures the prestige, power, and pageantry of the sport. Learn about the breeders, the horses, and the jockeys that have made this region famous for generations.
Revolutionary War ParkHistoric Camden FoundationRevolutionary War Visitor Center
For a full immersion in Revolutionary-era history, this expansive park and Visitor Center are must-visits. Walk through the colonial village, trace nature trails through the longleaf pines, and discover how Camden played a pivotal role in the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution.
💡 Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit
🕰️ Plan ahead. Each site has its own hours, admission fees, touring options, and features.
🍽️ Pair sites with eats & strolls. Downtown Camden offers great local food — perfect for rounding out your museum day.
📅 Time it right. Some museums host special events or guided tours — check their calendars.
🔍 Go with curiosity. Many of these places are less about glossy displays and more about real stories, local characters, and hidden heritage.
Whether you’re here for a few hours or planning a weekend getaway, Camden’s museums let you tap into the heart of the town’s identity. You’ll leave with more than photos — you’ll leave with memories. And those are what make Camden unforgettable.
Come explore — Camden’s museums are open and ready to welcome you! 🌿
If you’re traveling along I-20 through South Carolina, Exit 98 is your gateway to one of the state’s most charming small towns — Camden, SC. Just a few minutes from the highway, you’ll find a variety of hotels, local dining, and easy access to everything that makes Camden so much more than just a stopover. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, business trip, or family adventure, this exit offers convenience without sacrificing comfort or Southern hospitality.
SpringHill Suites Outdoor PoolComfort Inn and SuitesHoliday Inn Express & SuitesHampton Inn
📍 140 Wall Street, Camden, SC Fresh, modern, and all-suite — this brand-new property sets a new standard for comfort in Camden. Each suite offers separate living and sleeping areas, a mini-fridge, and a microwave – perfect for families, business travelers, or longer stays. Guests will love the spacious layout, free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and fitness center. ⭐ Best for: Longer stays, families, or travelers who love modern design.
📍 122 Wall Street, Camden, SC A favorite among Hilton loyalists, the Hampton Inn offers bright, inviting rooms, a hearty hot breakfast, heated indoor pool, and fitness center. You’re minutes from downtown Camden but close enough to hop back on the interstate with ease. ⭐ Best for: Business travelers or weekenders who enjoy trusted Hilton comfort.
📍 419 Sumter Highway, Camden, SC Classic comfort and convenience meet here. With complimentary breakfast, parking, and an outdoor pool, this IHG property is ideal for travelers looking for value and ease. The friendly staff and clean, modern rooms make it a reliable favorite. ⭐ Best for: Overnight road-trippers or those wanting reliable, familiar service.
📍 220 Wall Street, Camden, SC Pet-friendly, family-friendly, and easygoing, this hotel provides a welcoming stay with free breakfast and fitness facilities. It’s a great all-around option right on the Exit 98 corridor, just minutes from Camden’s Broad Street. ⭐ Best for: Pet owners and families looking for flexibility.
🍽️ Where to Eat and Drink Nearby
Salud! Mexican Kitchen
When it’s time to refuel, Camden’s food scene won’t disappoint. Within minutes of any of the above hotels, you’ll find a range of local favorites:
Sam Kendall’s – A downtown staple serving steaks, seafood, and cocktails in a historic building with Southern charm. Perfect for date night or dinner after exploring. 🍖
Camden House of Pizza – Family-friendly and casual, offering pizza, Greek, and Italian classics locals have loved for decades. Now with expanded hours to serve you better! 🍕
Blackmon’s Little Midget Family Drive-In – Family owned and operated in the same location for 70 years. Stop by during lunch hours to try their twist on drive-in food the old fashioned way 🌭
Salud! – Looking for a little spice after a relaxing day exploring? Salud! is an upscale Mexican food destination celebrating the bold flavors of Mexico, including an endless spirit list. 🍋🟩
Mill Pond Steakhouse – A steakhouse offering a unique and serene dining experience, where you may see wildlife in the pond while you enjoy your meal. Great for unwinding with a glass of wine after a full day of fun. 🍷
The Loopy Lemon Café – A cheerful spot for breakfast or lunch, known for fresh, creative bites with a Mediterranean twist. 🍋
Time to wet your whistle? There’s a growing beverage scene in town, too! Check out one of the options below to help you quench your thirst, whatever your preference may be:
Greener Pastures Brewing Company — The newest spot on the block, check out this locally-owned brewery, restaurant and beer garden on Broad Street. Serving an Italian-inspired food menu and cold beer, this is a great place to connect with loved ones.
Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge — Experience a diverse selection of top-noch cigars paired with delicious food and traditional and specialty cocktails.
Broad & Vine — Nestled in the heart of historic downtown, this wine bar offers a cozy and stylish space to relax, sip, and savor. Explore the thoughtfully curated selection of wines, small bites, and warm hospitality.
Gorget Distillery — Gorget is a craft distillery producing small batch spirits. Venture a little farther out to Lugoff in surrounding Kershaw County to sample their offerings or have a specialty cocktail at their bar.
🌳 Things to Do While You’re Here
Goodale State ParkBroad StreetRevolutionary War Visitor Center
Once you’ve checked in, don’t just hit the pillow — Camden’s charm deserves a little exploration.
Historic Camden Foundation & the Revolutionary War Visitor Center – Conveniently located next to one another, these two facilities will take you back in time to discover where pivotal battles shaped early America. Wander through reconstructed buildings and scenic grounds.
Goodale State Park – A peaceful escape for kayaking, hiking, and picnicking — just 10 minutes from the interstate and downtown Camden.
Downtown Camden – Browse the Cultural District to check out the plethora of art galleries and antique shops, hunt for new wardrobe staples at local boutiques, or simply stroll past the iconic clock tower with a cup of coffee from American Patriot or Books on Broad.
Camden Horse Country – As South Carolina’s oldest inland city and equestrian hub, Camden celebrates horses year-round — from scenic pastures to events at the South Carolina Equine Park or the Colonial Cup, taking place this year on Sunday, November 23 🐎
Pssst: If you’re planning your trip soon, check out our recent blog on Revolutionary November to see all that’s happening in and around Camden throughout the month of November.
🗝️ Why Stay at Exit 98
Unbeatable Convenience: All hotels are within minutes of I-20, making check-in and check-out easy for travelers.
Plenty of Choices: Whether you want an all-suite setup, pet-friendly rooms, or a trusted brand, there’s a perfect fit.
Close to Everything: Downtown, historic attractions, and local dining are all less than 10 minutes away.
Southern Hospitality: Each hotel delivers friendly, genuine service — something Camden is known for.
🌟 Ready to Plan Your Stay?
From sleek new hotels to trusted favorites, Camden, SC is more than a highway stop — it’s a comfortable, convenient base for exploring the heart of South Carolina.
Camden, S.C. – The City of Camden is excited to announce the installation of a state-of-the-art Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) system, set to begin next week. This initiative will enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and responsiveness of the City’s utility services, including water, sewer, and electric meters.
What is AMI? Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) is a modern technology that enables two-way communication between utility meters and the City’s central system. Through secure wireless signals, AMI allows for real-time data collection, providing both the City and residents with up-to-date information on utility usage.
“Implementing the AMI system is a significant step forward for Camden,” said City Manager Matt DeWitt. “This technology allows us to provide more accurate billing, respond faster to issues, and give residents the tools they need to manage their utility usage effectively. We’re excited about the positive impact this will have on our community.”
Benefits to the Community The implementation of the AMI system will bring several important benefits to Camden residents: • Accurate Billing: Real-time data ensures precise billing, eliminating estimated charges and discrepancies. • Enhanced Leak and Outage Detection: The system can quickly identify unusual consumption patterns, aiding in the rapid detection and resolution of water leaks. AMI will also provide electric outage and power quality information to alert City employees to potential issues. • Improved Customer Service: Residents will have access to detailed usage information, empowering them to make informed decisions about their utility consumption. • Operational Efficiency: The City can monitor and manage utilities more effectively, leading to better resource allocation and service delivery.
According to Jack Thornsberry, Director of Public Utilities for the City of Camden, “the AMI system will allow the City of Camden to greatly enhance customer service, accuracy, and transparency of meter reading data for our customers. The City and customers will be able to drill down and analyze electric and water consumption at their homes and businesses.”
What Residents Can Expect Beginning next week, City crews will start installing AMI meters throughout Camden. The installation process is designed to be seamless, with no need for entry into homes or businesses. All water meters are located in exterior pits or vaults, while electric meters are mounted on the exterior of homes and businesses. • The first wave of the project will focus on water meter installations, which are expected to take place over the next several months. • Electric meter installations will follow in early 2026. • Residents should experience minimal disruption during this process.
Looking Ahead Once complete, the AMI system will position Camden as a leader in modern utility management, while giving residents more tools to manage their household and business utility usage.
Camden, South Carolina is full of charm, and our coffee scene is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a locally roasted brew, a cozy reading spot, or a friendly neighborhood café, these three coffee shops need to be on your list.
Camden’s only roastery, APC takes coffee seriously. Beans are roasted in-house each week, ensuring peak freshness and bold flavor. Pair your drink with a pastry, fresh salad or sandwich made right in their kitchen, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere created by the trio of sisters behind another local favorite, Three Sisters Essentials, who purchased APC at the beginning of 2025. With historical themes like the Revolutionary Roast, Patriot Blend, Powder Keg and Minute Man Roast, you may even be inspired to explore some of Camden’s historic offerings.
This independent bookstore and café offers a calm, inviting space to sip a latte or cappuccino while browsing the shelves. Along with coffee, you’ll find smoothies, bagels, and baked goods — the perfect fuel for a morning of exploring downtown Camden. Once you’ve filled up, head out to peruse the many shops on Antique Street, stop in to chat with the artists and creators in the Cultural District or simply boost the local economy with a little retail therapy. This fall, be sure to check out their new seasonal menu, featuring the caramel apple and pumpkin spice flavors you know and love.
Books on Broad
Not A Corner Cafe 🌿
📍 1003 Church Street, Camden, SC
A true neighborhood gem, Not A Corner Café is known for its seasonal lattes and sweet treats. With friendly staff and a cozy setting, it’s a great spot for catching up with friends or enjoying a quiet moment midday. If you want to stretch your legs and take your cup o’ joe to-go, head to one of Camden’s museums to pass the time and learn something new about the area.
Your Coffee Crawl Itinerary 🗺️
Start strong at American Patriot Coffee Company for the freshest roast.
Slow down at Books on Broad & Coffee with a good book in hand.
Finish sweet at Not A Corner Cafe with a seasonal latte and muffin.
When the air turns crisp, leaves start changing colors, and pumpkins make their appearance at local farms, there’s one event in the Camden area of South Carolina you definitely won’t want to miss: Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Farm Day. A blend of farm life, fall fun, and southern charm, this is your chance to let the whole family get their hands dirty and soak up harvest-season memories.
Just 10 minutes outside of Camden in Rembert, Old McCaskill’s Farm is hosting its annual Fall Family Farm Day on October 4, 2025, from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm. Now in its 16th year, this fall-tastic event continues to grow, while keeping its working-farm authenticity and southern hospitality.
What to Expect: Activities + Experiences
The Fall Family Farm Day offers something for everyone:
🎃 Pumpkin Patch: Pick your own pumpkin or just wander among the vines.
🐎 Hayrides & Horseback Rides: These classic farm rides are always a hit!
🪵 Farm Demonstrations: See how a working farm operates, including blacksmith, woodworker, sawmill & gristmill demonstrations.
🪕 Live Entertainment: Enjoy the sounds of the season, with Bluegrass music providing the perfect soundtrack to your family’s farm day.
🍔 Great Food & Local Fare: Traditional fall treats and farm-style offerings to indulge in.
🐑 Activities for All Ages: Games, inflatables, barrel trains, animal encounters, and more.
What Makes It Special?
Before you think this is your typical “fall festival,” remember that Old McCaskill’s is still a working farm. You’ll see real farm operations and demonstrations you won’t find in a standard fall festival. And, with plenty of activities on offer, this event appeals to families in all stages – those with little ones who love animals and exploring new things, and those who’s older kids (and adults!) enjoy craftsmanship, music, and farm history. What’s more? You’ll be majorly supporting local – local farmers, artisans, craft and food vendors and entertainment. So, if you’ve been waiting for your sign to fully lean into the fall vibe — pumpkins, hayrides and crisp air — consider this your official invitation.
Tips for Attending
To make the most of the day, here are some helpful hints:
🎟️ Skip the Line – Buy your tickets in advance and avoid waiting in line at the gate.
⏰ Arrive Early — Parking areas and access points become more crowded as the day goes on. Getting there early gives you breathing room for the more popular activities.
🧥 Wear Appropriate Clothes — Think comfy shoes, clothes you don’t mind getting a little dusty, and be sure to layer (it may start cool and warm up).
💵 Bring Cash — Some food and artisan vendors may be cash-only.
🪑 Bring a Chair or Blanket — For enjoying music, watching demos, or resting between activities.
Here’s how we would spend our time at the Fall Family Farm Day:
10:00 am – Arrive, grab a quick snack from one of the local vendors, explore the pumpkin patch and snag a gorgeous pumpkin before it gets too crowded.
11:00 am – Enjoy a hayride followed by a live blacksmith or sawmill demonstration.
12:30 pm – Lunch from another local vendor & take a little break. Let the kids check out the inflatables or the barrel train while you enjoy a craft beer, glass of wine or mocktail.
2:00 pm – Squeeze in a horseback ride or farm tour, then find a shady spot to relax and enjoy some live bluegrass music.
3:30 pm – Wrap up your best day ever with one last loop, revisiting your favorite spots and ensuring you have enough pumpkins (is there such a thing?) and any purchases before you head home.
Old McCaskill’s Fall Family Day is more than just a fall festival; it’s a chance to throw it back to simpler times, enjoy hands-on experiences, and embrace the magic of the fall season in a warm and welcoming setting. Whether this is your first visit or a long-standing family tradition, expect laughter, fall aromas, friendly faces and cute animals, and memories that will last long past pumpkin spice season. Get your tickets today!
EXPLORE MORE
If you’re not ready to call it a day just yet, head back over to Camden and explore Broad Street for all your cultural, art and retail needs. Crawl the Cultural District, discover boutique shopping at its finest, or unearth some unique vintage finds at one of our many antique shops. Once you’ve met your shopping quota, you’ll probably need to quench your thirst. Grab a beer at Greener Pastures Brewing, Camden’s first and only brewery and the newest watering hole on the block, or Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill if you’re looking to watch a game. Prefer wine or spirits? Broad & Vine Wine Bar has over 30 bottles for you to sample at their unique self-pour system, and offers charcuterie boards and dessert as well. Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge is your go-to for elevated cocktails and top-notch cigars.
Famished from your day of fall fun? Check out B.Colson, Camden’s polished casual eatery serving steaks, seafood and an impressive selection of bourbons. Salud Mexican Kitchen serves upscale Mexican food and a seemingly endless list of spirits and Sam Kendall’s is your go-to Camden favorite for traditional American cuisine where everyone knows everyone. If you’re looking for a place to stay the night before heading home, we’ve got you covered. Rest your bones one of our locally-owned hotels or cozy up in a home away from home short-term rental. Wherever you choose to lay your head, Camden’s southern hospitality will be there to make sure your stay is nothing short of charming.
The City of Camden is selling property it has deemed as surplus. There are eleven properties for sale. Ten of these properties are in the city limits, and one is outside the city limits. Offers will be accepted until July 25, 2025. The following properties are for sale:
• 718 York Street • 807 Church Street • 810 Campbell Street • 1095 Old River Road • 1095A Old River Road • 1099 Old River Road • 1101 Old River Road • 1115 Old River Road • 1210 Gordon Street • 1319 Lakeshore Drive • 2129 Fishing Lane
