This month’s Rock Hill Coca-Cola picnic trip sends us south to Camden. This small city is the oldest inland town in South Carolina. Founded in 1786, this charming town boasts plenty of history and horses. Pack up a lunch and some snacks into your picnic basket, load your cooler with plenty of Coca-Cola products and hit the road.
How to Get There
From Rock Hill, the trip to Camden, South Carolina is a straight shot down US-21 S and SC-97 S. The trip should take about 1 hour and 15 minutes, making Camden the perfect destination for a quick day trip. You’ll more or less follow the Catawba River, passing Landsford Canal (from a distance) and going through Fort Lawn and Great Falls.
What to Do
Horses
Camden is the heart of horse country in South Carolina. Here you’ll find the National Steeplechase Museum, the only one of its kind in the country. You can tour both the museum and the grounds, which are located on the historic Springdale Race Course.
History
As the oldest inland town in South Carolina, Camden is home to a lot of history. You can find out all about it the Camden Archives and Museum. This free museum is located in the heart of Camden and displays loads of artifacts and items that tell the long history of the town.
On the south side of town you’ll find Historic Camden. This 107-acre outdoor museum features several historic structures that offer a glimpse into what life was like in times past. Tour the fascinating historic buildings, then unpack your lunch at the picnic facilities. Aspiring anglers can drop a line in the fishing pond. After you eat, grab your snacks and hit the nature trail.
Head north of town and you’ll find the second major historical area: the Battle of Camden historic battlefield. This 476 acre site features 3 miles of walking trails dotted with historical markers. Remember to pack comfy walking shoes!
Spaniels
If you want to keep your jaunt closer to town, join the hunt for Boykin spaniels. See if you can find the locations of the eleven dogs scattered throughout downtown Camden. It’s a great way to tour the town.