Camden is the oldest inland city in South Carolina, a title it preserves and cherishes. Now the county seat of Kershaw County, the city of 7,700 saw some of its earliest settlers in the 1750s. Historic landmarks highlight the town, including Revolutionary War sites and a historic district. “We’re a city full of history,” says Lisa Cobb Moore, the broker in charge of Montgomery and Moore Real Estate and a lifelong resident of Camden. “We’re all about historic preservation and saving areas that should be preserved.” In addition to historic sites and museums, Camden also invests in the here and now, with a thriving art scene and an array of restaurants and retail.
Cape Cod designs with steep roofs and dormers are popular in Camden's historic district.
Camden’s Historic City Hall stands as a testament to mid-20th-century architecture, symbolizing the growth of Kershaw County over decades.
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Camden's Downtown Cultural District and local eateries
Though Camden celebrates and cherishes its past, it also invests in the present. The downtown cultural district features galleries and arts education centers including the Arts Center of Kershaw County, which has rotating exhibits and theater events. Downtown Camden also has an array of local restaurants, like the Steeplechase Sports Bar and Grill and quaint spots like Candy’s at the Granary. There are also fast-food options, chain restaurants, and retail options along US Route 1.
Enjoy Sam Kendall’s southern charm and creative menu after a day exploring Camden’s shops.
The Arts Center of Kershaw County nurtures creativity with galleries, shows, and classes.
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Camden Revolutionary Days and horse racing in the Carolina Cup
Camden is known across the region for the Carolina Cup and Colonial Cup horse racing events. The Colonial Cup has been running for nearly 50 years as an event for people from around the country to tailgate and watch exciting races. The Carolina Cup Steeplechase Races, known as the “rite of spring,” features horse racing, local vendors and family events. Camden Revolutionary Days celebrates the town’s past with weeklong festivities, including a battle reenactment and a barbecue fest. Camden has its share of annual holiday events, including the Kershaw County Christmas Parade. “Halloween is big here. We’ll have hundreds and hundreds of kids trick-or-treating,” Moore says. The city also has an array of historic churches with various denominations. “We have a big church presence, with everything from Episcopal, Methodist, Baptist, nondenominational and more. In the downtown area, there are a number of churches all within short walking distance of each other,” Moore says.
The Camden community preserves rich Revolutionary War history through annual reenactments.
The Colonial Cup benefits Kershaw County's health services, showcasing community spirit.
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Historic homes and new builds
Camden has a variety of historic properties as well as newly built contemporary homes. Downtown in the historic district, some homes were built as early as the late 1700s and early 1800s. "I’d say that’s pretty typical," Moore says. "My home was built in 1980, and most of the homes around me were built around that time.” Many homes in Camden are priced below the national average of $416,000. However, some historic homes on oversized lots are priced between $600,000 and $1.1 million. “Housing prices have gone up recently, but it’s still a very affordable place to live,” Moore says.
Colonial-style homes are prominent, reflecting Camden's early 18th-century settlements.
Farmhouse-inspired new builds bring charm with modern open layouts to Camden neighborhoods.
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Relaxing at Kendall Lake
Camden has several municipal parks, many in the heart of town, as well as neighborhood pocket parks. According to the Trust for Public Land, 67% of residents in Camden live within a 10 minute walk of a park. Residents can head to Kendall Lake for a day on the lake. The city is also home to the Camden County Club, a private institution with an 18-hole golf course designed by Donald Ross.
Kendall Lake is part of the historical district and tied to the city's textile mill history.
The neighborhood pocket parks in Camden create intimate spaces where locals can unwind while enjoying the city’s historic charm and Southern hospitality.
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Kershaw County School District and private school options
Camden is part of the Kershaw County School District, which received an overall B grade from Niche. Camden High School has won state championships for several sports, including girls and boys basketball, football and baseball, among others. There are also several private schools such as the Camden Military Academy, which was founded in 1958.
The Kershaw County School District supports Camden’s youth with a dedication to academic excellence, arts programs, and sports initiatives.
The Kershaw County School District offers high-quality education and is known for its commitment to nurturing young minds within Camden’s tight-knit community.
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Important to Know
Like most of the South, Camden has hot summers and mild winters. FEMA gives Camden and Kershaw County a relatively low-risk index, with the highest risk coming from strong winds. According to FBI stats, Camden has had higher property and violent crime rates than the U.S. average. However, Moore says residents feel safe around town. “It’s a safe place to live. The police department is really on top of things,” she says.
Easy access to Columbia
U.S. Route 1 runs through the heart of Camden and serves as the main commuting route. Interstate 20 is also close and leads directly to Columbia, about 34 miles away. Camden has little to no public transportation, so residents are mainly car-dependent.
Interstate 20’s proximity to Camden ensures seamless travel for residents heading to metropolitan Columbia or beyond for work and leisure.
U.S. Route 1 in Camden offers travelers a scenic drive through South Carolina’s oldest inland city, connecting history and modern life.
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