Top Camden Experiences
Find Your Perfect Camden Experience
The Freedom to Experience Camden, SC
Listen. There’s a lot to do in Camden and Kershaw County. We get it. Whether you’re craving culture, have a hankering for history and horses or just want to get on the water; our experiences team has put together our favorite experiences for first time visitors to the region. These are quick hits of some of the most iconic activities, events and experiences in our region. In Camden, you have the freedom to do the things you love. Let us help.
Drop A Line in The Water at Lake Wateree
An angler’s paradise awaits you.
With 242 miles of shoreline covering more than 13,000 acres, Lake Wateree is an angler’s dream. Large Mouth and Stripped Bass, Bream, Catfish, and Crappie fishing abound in one of South Carolina’s oldest man-made lakes. Everything you need is on-lake including a publicly accessible boat ramp, tackle shop and a refueling dock. Don’t forget to check out the numerous Lake Wateree fishing tournaments hosted every year!
Hunt For Puppy Love
Don’t Miss Camden’s Boykin Spaniel Week
Did you know that that Boykin Spaniel is South Carolina’s official state dog? A big treat during Boykin Spaniel Week the hunt for Boykin Spaniel Puppies in Downtown Camden. This “Where’s Waldo”-type scavenger hunt allows participants to follow clues and search for 10 “little brown dogs” at merchants and restaurants in the Downtown District. Participants who find eight of 10 puppies on the scavenger hunt can enter to win prizes.
Paddle “Into The Forest” at Goodale State Park
Drift Amongst Ancient Cypress Trees on one of Canoe Magazine’s Top 25 Water Trails
One of South Carolina’s hidden gems…Goodale State Park features tall cypress trees that enchant the eye and a bevvy of wildlife both on land and in the water. Goodale’s Water Trail is some of best kayaking in South Carolina and was recognized by Canoe Magazine as a “Top 25 Scenic Canoe Route”. Get ready for egrets, hawks alligators and more as you paddle – not hike – into the forest. A truly magical experience. Start your trip in downtown Camden for supplies and provisions.
Crawl The Cultural District
Visit downtown Camden and experience arts, culture, antiquing and more.
A trip to Camden is not complete without a deep dive into the public art, museums, galleries and artists studios of the Camden Cultural District. It’s also home to quiet green spaces, bustling markets, and restaurants and eateries to keep any food lover busy! Get your arts and culture fix in Camden’s Cultural District today.
Come to “The Cup”
A thrilling tradition and Annual “rite of spring”
Attending the Carolina Cup Steeplechase Races in Camden is a time-honored tradition that has achieved premier social event status all over the world. South Carolina’s annual “rite of spring” draws over 30,000 fans from around the country to the thrilling sport of steeplechase horse racing. Amid a flurry of spring fashions and elaborate tailgate parties, this is THE day to see old friends and make new ones throughout the day.
“Get Lost” on The Wateree River Blue Trail
Endless miles of untouched natural beauty await you.
Reconnect to the water and our region’s history with a paddle down the majestic Wateree River. Within minutes of putting in at the Wateree River Environment Park or Lake Wateree Dam, you’ll be immersed in some of the most untouched natural beauty in all of South Carolina. The Wateree Blue Trail offers paddlers opportunities to learn about the area’s rich history along its rocky shoals and convene with the myriad flora and fauna that make this region so special. Start your day in the city and end it with the egrets, herons and wildlife of the majestic Wateree River.
Experience The Battle of Camden
Experience The American Revolution Up Close!
This all outdoor, family friendly event is the largest force-on-force reenactment in the nation! You will see hundreds of Crown and Patriot reenactors, full scale battles, period entertainment including fire-erupting cannons and a host of other incredible American Revolution experiences. Bring the kids, bring the family and bring your appetite. Food vendors onsite and downtown camden eats and treats are just minutes away.
Walk Through History at Camden’s Revolutionary War Park
Experience The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Like Never Before
Camden is dripping with Revolutionary War History. It’s one of the most significant battle sites in the entire Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. Plan a weekend of history, hospitality and incredible experiences with a trip to Camden’s Revolutionary War Park. Explore the Colonial Village at Historic Camden. Meander through the pines on the 3+ mile nature trail with interpretive signage. Learn about South Carolina’s leading role in turning the tide of war at the Revolutionary War Visitor’s Center. And don’t forget to stop off in downtown Camden for a bit to eat after all that history!
Rediscover Horse Country
Ride, Race or Rodeo…Camden IS horse country.
Horse lovers from across the country know Camden for her race tracks, stables, horse farms and 100-year old love affair with horses. Here horses of all breeds are bred, trained, ridden, shown, raced or ‘rode to the hounds’. Tour The National Steeplechase Museum, Tour Springdale Race Course or visiting a working horse farm. Camden is home to thoroughbred racing in South Carolina.
Go On The Hunt in Kershaw County
Hunting, Shooting and Acres of Exploration Await
Camden and Kershaw County are well known as a sportsman’s paradise. Where else can you experience the rich cultural amenities of city life and get away in minutes to pristine woodlands and challenging terrain. Enjoy thousands of acres of preserved hunting grounds at the Kershaw County Hunting preserve or learn/hone your skills with a trip to Hermitage Farm Shooting Sports. Camden and Kershaw County have a lot for outdoor sporting enthusiasts
Curated
Itineraries
Ready to launch your next getaway? We've collaborated with some notable locals to create compelling and easy to access itineraries just for you. Their stories, your freedom to explore - get ready for history, horses, hospitality and more with your own unique Camden experience.
Events & Happenings
Camden offers myriad ways to enjoy our city’s rich hospitality with a full calendar of arts, culture, outdoors, equine, history and related events. Find your “thing” in Camden, SC. All Events →