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Spring is the perfect time to visit Camden, Arkansas! As the daffodils bloom across town, Camden comes alive with history, culture and plenty of activities for families, history buffs and food lovers alike. Nestled along the banks of the Ouachita River, Camden boasts a rich past dating back to the steamboat era, Civil War battles, and even modern military advancements with Lockheed Martin’s precision fires operation.
A Town Steeped in History
Camden was founded as a river city, earning the nickname “Queen City” along the Ouachita River. Early French settlers encountered the Quapaw and Caddo tribes, who inhabited the area and were known for their pottery-making skills. In late 1762, these settlers established a trading post and military settlement, creating the town’s original structures and marking a significant moment in the Hunter-Dunbar Expedition.
Throughout the 1800s, the town flourished due to steamboat traffic from New Orleans. It served as a crucial stop along the Butterfield Overland Mail and Stagecoach route while developing its expanding mercantile center and transportation hub. During the Civil War, Camden played a key role in the Red River Campaign. Today, visitors can follow in the footsteps of history by exploring the Camden Expedition Civil War Trail and the nearby Poison Springs Battleground State Park. Camden occupies an important place in both Arkansas and American history.
What to See & Do in Camden
Camden is packed with attractions that appeal to visitors of all ages, making it a perfect landing for a couple of days or day trips from around South Arkansas. Here are some must-visit spots around town:
Around Town:
- Camden Visitor Center & Museum – Located in a restored 1913 train depot, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on Camark Pottery, Grapette soft drinks, Civil War history and local railroad lore. In 1985, the film crew for North & South used the depot and train rails for filming, along with other destinations around town.
- Camden Murals—Take a self-guided tour of the town’s colorful murals, which showcase the town’s rich history and culture.
- Ouachita County Community Garden and Farmers Market – Shop for fresh, locally grown produce and handmade crafts while mingling with friendly locals.
- Stinson Jewelers – Established in 1847, Stinson opened the first jewelry store west of the Mississippi River. It is the third oldest company in Arkansas and is still run by the Stinson family.
Historic Attractions:
- McCollum Chidester House & Leake Ingram Library – Operated by the Ouachita County Historical Society, this home-turned-museum showcases Civil War history and Camden’s early settlers.
- Downtown Historic District – A self-guided tour of the city’s stunning historic homes, with brochures available at the Chamber of Commerce.
- The Powell-Dietrich House – A beautifully preserved home highlighting early 20th-century architecture.
- Camden Expedition Civil War Trail – Walk in the footsteps of Civil War soldiers as you explore this historic battlefield trail.
- Poison Springs Battleground State Park – Just 10 miles northwest, this park commemorates a significant Civil War battle.
- Oakland Cemetery – One of the largest Confederate cemeteries in the region and a must-visit for history enthusiasts. During the Daffodil Festival and Oct. , reenactors share stories about those buried and connected to Camden’s history.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
- Carnes Park & Splash Pad – A perfect spot for children to play and cool off on a warm day.
- Fort Southerland Park – Explore the remains of Civil War earthworks and learn about Camden’s strategic military significance.
- Sandy Beach Park – Enjoy scenic views of the Ouachita River, fishing and picnicking.
Nearby Attractions Worth the Drive:
- Tate’s Bluff on the Ouachita River is a picturesque spot for fishing, boating and nature walks. The site was an observation point and supply depot during the Civil War.
- White Oak Lake State Park & Arkansas’s “Little Grand Canyon” – Stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation await just a short drive away.
- Museum of Natural Resources in Smackover – Learn about Arkansas’s oil boom and natural history at this museum-driven Arkansas State Park.
Annual Events in Camden
- Daffodil Festival | March – One of the best places to see daffodils in Arkansas, this festival celebrates the historic homes and places throughout the community, with concentration along Washington Street.
- Star-Spangled Spectacular | July – A dazzling Fourth of July fireworks display.
- First Friday Market | April–November – Monthly street fairs filled with food, music and shopping.
- Camden Balloon Fest | August – A breathtaking event featuring hot air balloons.
- National Night Out | August – A community event promoting safety and neighborhood camaraderie.
- Boo Bash | Oct. – A fun Halloween celebration for families with trick-or-treating and pumpkin activities scattered around town.
- PBW Barn Sale | Fall – A local shopping event featuring antiques and crafts.
- Business After Hours | December – A festive networking event during the holiday season, where the historic downtown district welcomes shoppers helping Santa with his shopping list!
Where to Eat in Camden
After exploring, refuel with some of the best eats in Arkansas. The catfish is worth the drive alone, and grabbing a bottle of Grapette in its original home feels like nostalgia for every drink.
- Woods Place – A visit to Camden isn’t complete without Woods Place! Their catfish is legendary—crispy, golden, and served with hush puppies and coleslaw.
- Postmasters Grill – A modern eatery in a historic post office building known for its flavorful shrimp & grits.
- White House Café – Arkansas’s oldest continuously operating restaurant, famous for its mouthwatering chicken-fried steak.
- Native Dog Brewing – Enjoy craft beer and delicious artisan pizzas in a laid-back setting.
- The Sandbar – An excellent spot for burgers and steaks with a relaxed riverfront atmosphere.
- Cardinal Café – Perfect for a homestyle meal with a welcoming, small-town feel.
- Hickory Hut BBQ – Slow-smoked barbecue at its best—be sure to try the pulled pork sandwich!
- Perfect Cup Café – A cozy coffee shop offering great lattes and homemade pastries. But don’t miss lunch with salads, sandwiches and wraps.
- Jacob’s Well – Another must-visit coffee shop known for its rich brews, encouragement and relaxing atmosphere.
Where to Shop
Looking for unique finds? Camden offers a variety of charming boutiques and specialty stores:
- Allen’s Antiques – A treasure trove of antiques and collectibles
- Merle Norman – Beauty and skincare essentials with a personalized touch
- Camark Cottage – An excellent stop for vintage Camark Pottery lovers
- The Perfects Boutique – Trendy fashion finds for all ages
- The XoXo Co. – A stylish women’s boutique featuring home decor and apparel
- Rainbow Connection – A delightful children’s boutique with clothing and gifts
- Artesana – Handcrafted soaps, candles and more
Where to Stay: 5 Unique Stays in Camden
In addition to traditional hotels like Holiday Inn and Suites, MainStay Suites and Comfort Inn, Camden offers a few unique and historic properties that provide a great resting place and one-of-a-kind vacation rentals, whether you’re working in the area, traveling through or exploring the local history.
- Camden Blue House – A charming and cozy retreat perfect for families
- Southern Charm – A beautifully decorated home that exudes classic Southern hospitality
- Southern Cottage – A stylish and comfortable cottage with all the modern amenities
- Camden Cottage Rental – A delightful rental with plenty of space for relaxation
- New Construction – A modern, newly built home perfect for a weekend getaway
Camden is more than just a historic town—it’s a vibrant, welcoming community full of history and hidden gems. Whether walking among centuries-old homes, exploring Civil War battlefields, or enjoying a plate of the finest catfish you’ll ever taste, Camden invites you to discover its charm, one adventure at a time.
For more information, visit these websites.
Visit Camden
Camden Chamber of Commerce | Facebook
Ouachita County Historical Society | Facebook
Unless otherwise noted, the images in this story are used with permission from the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
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Hi, Keisha. I had no idea Camden he’ll so many treasures. Have you ever had a galette? It was my favorite as a child. Happy trails!