Battle of Camden
Death of Baron de Kalb
Battle of Camden
On August 16, 1780, more than 2000 British and Loyalist troops under Lt. General Lord Cornwallis met and defeated over 4,000 American troops commanded by the “Hero of Saratoga,” General Horatio Gates. The Battle of Camden was the worst Patriot defeat of the American Revolution.
The aftermath of the battle saw the southern Continental Army in total disarray while the British Army and Loyalists controlled the colony. Camden became a fortified garrison for the British and the future for the patriot cause in the South was bleak.
BATTLE OF CAMDEN SITE PODCAST TOUR
Visit the Battlefield
Today, Historic Camden owns the 476-acre core battlefield located off US Hwy 521 about 5 miles north of Camden on Flat Rock Road (S-28-58). Known as the Camden Battlefield and Longleaf Pine Preserve, the site offers 3 miles of walking trails with interpretive signage. Guided tour tickets available at Historic Camden’s Cunningham House, 222 Broad Street.
HOURS:
Daylight Hours (free to the public)
LOCATION:
1698 Flat Rock Road, Camden
A monument on the battle site marks the spot where Revolutionary War Hero, Johannes Baron de Kalb, was mortally wounded.
Battle of Camden Site Podcast Tour
This audio tour was developed to help visitors follow in the footsteps of the American and British armies who clashed here that hot summer night. Listen to battle stories and contemporaneous commentary as you explore the wayfinding signs at the Battlefield.
- Introduction
- Stop 1 – Kiosk
- Stop 2 – The Great Wagon Road
- Stop 3 – American Army
- Stop 4 – British Army
- Stop 5 – Night Battle
- Stop 6 – Opening Attack
- Stop 7 – Closing the Gap
- Stop 8 – Gates’ Flight
- Stop 9 – Defeat in the Center
- Stop 10 – Charge and Countercharge
- Stop 11 – Driven From the Field
- Stop 12 – Pursuit
- Stop 13 – Epilogue
Note: Longleaf pine reforestation and recreational spaces are in development. Metal detecting and camping are prohibited.
Experience Camden Like a Local
Experience The Battle of Camden
Experience The American Revolution Up Close!
This all outdoor, family friendly event is the largest force-on-force reenactment in the nation! You will see hundreds of Crown and Patriot reenactors, full scale battles, period entertainment including fire-erupting cannons and a host of other incredible American Revolution experiences. Bring the kids, bring the family and bring your appetite. Food vendors onsite and downtown camden eats and treats are just minutes away.
Walk Through History at Camden’s Revolutionary War Park
Experience The Southern Campaign of the American Revolution Like Never Before
Camden is dripping with Revolutionary War History. It’s one of the most significant battle sites in the entire Southern Campaign of the Revolutionary War. Plan a weekend of history, hospitality and incredible experiences with a trip to Camden’s Revolutionary War Park. Explore the Colonial Village at Historic Camden. Meander through the pines on the 3+ mile nature trail with interpretive signage. Learn about South Carolina’s leading role in turning the tide of war at the Revolutionary War Visitor’s Center. And don’t forget to stop off in downtown Camden for a bit to eat after all that history!
Visit The Revolutionary War Visitors Center at Camden
Learn About The Real Turning Point in The American Revolution - The Southern Campaign
The Revolutionary War Visitor Center at Camden is the gateway to both South Carolina’s pivotal role in the American Revolution and the multitude of things to do and see in Camden-Kershaw County. The Center tells the story of the real turning point of the Revolution – The Southern Campaign. Discover Friends and Foes of the cause as well as the hard-fought battles by determined patriots with their hearts set on liberty.