Explore Camden, SC- it's Classically Carolina
Discover the place Camden Military Academy calls home! Camden, the oldest inland city in the state, has roots dating back to the Revolutionary War, historic antebellum homes and charm that remains unique among towns of its size in South Carolina. The city of Camden is less than one-half hour from the state capital, Columbia. Also, Charlotte, NC, one of America's fastest growing cities, is only 90 short miles away. Camden is situated in the Midlands of South Carolina making a day trip to the coast or mountains around a two hour drive.
Camden is also known as the "Steeplechase Capital of the World" due to the fact that Camden holds the world record for the most spectators to ever a witness a steeplechase event--70,000+ people! The community has a flourishing equine community and hosts several equine events throughout the year including both the Carolina and Colonial Cups, polo matches and numerious horse shows at the South Carolina Equine Center.
Camden is the county seat of Kershaw County. Within the county, there are three municipalities- Camden, Bethune and Elgin- each offering their special charm. Also, within the county is the beautiful Lake Wateree that is a great natural resource that locals and vistors frequent. Nesteled within the county, you will also find the historic communities of Boykin and Liberty Hill.
The Kershaw County Fine Arts Center brings rich culture to Camden with many concerts, plays and other entertainment and unique art opportunties. The area also hosts the Carolina Downhome Blues Festival annually attracting thousands to bars and restaurants in the area. Other festivals held throughout the county include the Bethune Chicken Strut and the Elgin Catfish Stomp. South Carolina's annual rite of Spring, the Carolina Cup steeplechase, attracts upwards of 70,000 people to the Camden area each year. Many smaller events and parades are held throughout the year!
After touring Camden Military Academy, explore downtown Camden and Kershaw County and discover all that the community has to offer you and your son. We invite you to learn more about the area by visiting the Kershaw County Chamber of Commerce and the City of Camden's websites.
The mild Southern climate is an added bonus for cadets. Check the weather here!
Where to Stay
In order to assist you in your travels to Camden, the following is a list of local accommodations (many of our parents prefer the properties marked with an asterisk):
Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton- 803-272-0600*
Holiday inn Express - (803) 424-5000*
Comfort Inn and Suites - (803) 425-1010*
Bloomsbury Inn B&B - (803) 432-5858*
Days Inn - (803) 438-1807
Econo Lodge Inn & Suites - (803) 438-6990
Travel Inn - (803) 438-4961
Camden House B&B - 803-713-1013
Ramada LTD in Lugoff - (803) 438-1807
Old McCaskill's Farm B&B - 803-432-9537
Colony Inn - 803-432-5508
Where to Eat
Whether you’re in the mood for a multi-course fine dining experience or a quick burger from a hole-in-the-wall local gem, Camden has the perfect spot for you. Many of the local restaurants specialize in upscale, down-home southern favorites. Choose from an arrary of places to eat here. We recommend you contact them for reservations since some are not open on Sunday.
What to Do
Experience the past and enjoy the present, as you discover what Camden has to offer recreationally. The tourism and leisure activities are fueled by people's desire for the historic southern charm Camden exudes throughout all its cultural, recreational and celebrational festivities.
*thanks to Bowtie Photography and Bloomsbury Inn for the use of the pictures