East Camden ArkansasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near East Camden, Arkansas.
1. McCollum Chidester House
HISTORIC CIVIL WAR LANDMARK
The McCollum-Chidester House is a historic site that served as a Union headquarters when federal troops occupied Camden during the Red River Campaign. This well-preserved house was featured in the television series 'The North and The South'. Visitors can explore this historical landmark to learn about Camden's rich Civil War history.
2. Poison Spring State Park
CIVIL WAR BATTLEFIELD SITE
Poison Spring State Park preserves the site of the Battle of Poison Springs, a significant Civil War battle that occurred during the Red River Campaign. Located about 10 miles northwest of Camden, the park commemorates this important historical event. The park offers visitors a chance to learn about this Civil War battle through interpretive exhibits.
3. The Powell-Dietrich House
HISTORIC HOME MUSEUM
The Powell-Dietrich House is a highly-rated history museum in East Camden that showcases the area's rich heritage. The house features period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of early settlers in the region. Visitors consistently rate this attraction highly for its well-preserved architecture and historical significance.
4. Fort Southerland Park
CIVIL WAR FORTIFICATION
Fort Southerland Park, located on Bradley Ferry Road near Camden, was built by Southern troops during the Civil War. The site was later used and improved by Union troops during the Federal occupation of Camden. This National Historic Landmark offers visitors a glimpse into Civil War military engineering and strategy.
5. Oakland Cemetery
HISTORIC CONFEDERATE CEMETERY
Oakland Cemetery is the largest Confederate cemetery in the Camden area and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The cemetery contains the graves of numerous Confederate soldiers who died during the Civil War. Visitors can explore this solemn site to pay respects and learn about the human cost of the conflict.
6. Native Dog Brewing
LOCAL CRAFT BREWERY
Native Dog Brewing is a popular craft brewery in Camden that offers locally made beers in a welcoming atmosphere. The brewery features a variety of craft beer options that highlight regional flavors and brewing traditions. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and the opportunity to learn about the brewing process from knowledgeable staff.
7. Camden Visitors Center and Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Camden Visitors Center and Museum exhibits artifacts related to famous Camden products including Camark pottery and Grapette soft drinks. The museum also features Civil War and railroad relics that highlight the area's industrial and military history. Visitors can gain a comprehensive understanding of Camden's cultural and economic development through these exhibits.
8. White Oak Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
White Oak Lake State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, and hiking. The park features a 1,645-acre lake that is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass and crappie. Visitors can enjoy camping facilities, picnic areas, and scenic trails that showcase the natural beauty of southern Arkansas.
9. Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources
OIL INDUSTRY HERITAGE
The Arkansas Museum of Natural Resources in nearby Smackover documents the history of the oil industry in southern Arkansas. The museum features interactive exhibits that demonstrate how oil and brine shaped the region's economy and culture. Visitors can explore both indoor displays and outdoor exhibits including historic equipment used in oil production.
10. Ouachita County Historical Society
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Ouachita Historical Society preserves and presents the rich history of Camden and Ouachita County. The society maintains collections of photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of the area's development. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the cultural, economic, and social evolution of the region from its early days to the present.
11. Fort Lookout
CIVIL WAR STRATEGIC POINT
Fort Lookout, located on Van Buren Road near Camden, is a National Historic Landmark that served as a strategic defensive position during the Civil War. Built by Southern troops, the fort was later used and improved by Union forces during their occupation of Camden. The site offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding area, demonstrating why it was chosen for its military significance.
12. Camden Daffodil Festival
SPRING FLORAL CELEBRATION
The Camden Daffodil Festival is a major spring event celebrating the blooming of thousands of daffodils throughout the city. The festival features garden tours, live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, and local food specialties. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant displays of yellow daffodils while participating in various community activities during this cherished annual tradition.
13. BPW Barn Sale
AUTUMN SHOPPING EVENT
The BPW Barn Sale is a popular autumn shopping event in Camden that attracts visitors from throughout the region. This large-scale sale features antiques, collectibles, handcrafted items, and unique merchandise from numerous vendors. Shoppers can hunt for treasures while enjoying the festive atmosphere of this annual community tradition.
14. Ouachita River
HISTORIC WATERWAY EXPERIENCE
The Ouachita River flows past Camden, which is built on a bluff overlooking this important waterway. Historically known as the lifeline of the region during the steamboat era, the river earned Camden the nickname 'Queen City' of the Ouachita. Today, visitors can enjoy recreational activities including fishing, boating, and scenic riverside walks while appreciating the waterway's historical significance.
15. Prairie D'Ane Battlefield
CIVIL WAR SKIRMISH SITE
The Prairie D'Ane Battlefield near Prescott is a National Historic Landmark where Union and Confederate forces skirmished between April 9-12, 1864. This battle was significant as it blunted the Union drive to Louisiana during the Red River Campaign. Visitors can explore this preserved battlefield to better understand the strategies and challenges faced by both armies during this Civil War confrontation.