Camden Regional Chamber of Commerce Serving Calhoun and Ouachita Counties
The Camden Regional Chamber of Commerce takes great pride in serving as the premier community development organization that represents Calhoun and Ouachita Counties in the beautiful state of Arkansas. We fully recognize and embrace the immense potential that our area possesses for growth in tourism, industry, and business. As avid supporters of the local community, we collaborate closely with various firms and organizations to help harness and maximize the abundant opportunities that our region offers.
We invite you to take a moment and peruse this publication, which has been thoughtfully curated to acquaint you with the vibrant richness and distinctive character of our area. The wealth of information contained within will undoubtedly deepen your understanding of the countless attractions and resources that make our community so remarkable. However, please remember that while this Community Profile and Membership Directory offers a plethora of valuable insights, nothing can truly compare to experiencing the splendid Camden area firsthand. Whether you are enticed by our captivating festivals or intrigued by the historical treasures scattered across our beloved lands, we wholeheartedly welcome you to join us. Should you seek additional information regarding tourism or relocating to our area, please do not hesitate to contact us via phone, explore our user-friendly website, or reach out via email.
At the Camden Regional Chamber of Commerce, we firmly believe that there is a niche for everyone in our dynamic community, whether you aspire to visit and immerse yourself in the various cultural festivities or seek a prime location to establish your own thriving business. Come on down and be a part of the flourishing tapestry that is the Camden area. We eagerly await the opportunity to provide you with an unforgettable experience.
Mission Statement
The Camden Regional Chamber of Commerce aims to support the economic, civic, and social welfare of the Camden Area and surrounding regions. Its objectives include encouraging public improvements, promoting resource development, fostering education and cultural facilities, supporting both new and established industries, boosting trade volume for local businesses, and managing relevant bureaus.
Discovering Camden’s Rich History and Famous Connections
Thanks to the compassion and dedication of our community members, Camden’s rich history has been beautifully preserved, with countless Antebellum homes lovingly restored. Visitors are in for a treat when they explore our Historic Downtown District, as well as the captivating Historic Clifton-Greening Street District, the charming Washington Street Historic District, and the lovingly restored Missouri Pacific Depot. History enthusiasts will be pleased to discover the numerous Civil War landmarks, the impressive collection of over 20 historic houses listed on the National Register of Historic Places and Arkansas’ Most Historic Dining Establishment: The White House Café . Among these magnificent homes, one has even been transformed into a delightful bed and breakfast lodge, while the McCollum-Chidester House stands proudly as a museum, offering a captivating journey into our past that dates back to 1847.
Camden traces its origins back to 1824, when it first emerged as a bustling steamboat landing, bustling with activity as cotton was loaded and shipped to the vibrant city of New Orleans. In fact, the Bluff, as it was affectionately known, held a prominent position as one of the leading cotton-shipping terminals, and by 1841, it was proudly home to a bustling cotton gin, laying the foundation for Camden’s illustrious industrial history.
Stepping into the enchanting McCollum-Chidester House feels like traveling back in time, a place where weary
stagecoach drivers and curious travelers once sought respite, refreshment, and the warmest of hospitality in the days preceding the Civil War. What makes this experience truly extraordinary is that the house remains virtually unchanged, allowing visitors to marvel at the original furnishings, cherished mementos, and even bullet holes that still grace the walls of the upper floor.
Throughout the years, Camden has welcomed its fair share of notable figures, each leaving their mark on our town’s captivating narrative. In the mid-19th century, esteemed writer Edgar Allen Poe graced our community as a printer for the renowned local newspaper, The Herald. More recently, portions of John Jakes’ iconic made-for-television mini-series, “The North and the South,” were filmed within the walls of the McCollum-Chidester House, attracting beloved actors such as Kirstie Alley and Patrick Swayze, who quickly became favorites among the locals. Additionally, Camden proudly served as the backdrop for Martin Scorsese’s directorial debut, the unforgettable movie “Box Car Bertha,” featuring the incredible talents of Barbara Hershey and David Carradine.
We warmly invite you to discover the captivating charm and inviting atmosphere that define Camden’s historical treasures.