History buffs are sure to fall in love with the “Star on the River” when they fly to a jet charter airport in Camden, Arkansas.
Situated on a bluff overlooking the Ouachita River in Ouachita County, Camden, Arkansas is steeped in Civil War lore. In 1864, long after the town got its start as a French trading post named Ecore Fabre, Camden, Arkansas became the focus of the Red River Campaign. This Union offensive war effort sparked several significant battles, the scars of which can still be seen today.
Start your tour through Civil War history in Camden, Arkansas at the McCollum-Chidester House. This historic site is preserved as the Union headquarters during the occupation of Camden by federal forces during the Red River Campaign.
Next, head northwest to one of three state parks that commemorate the iconic campaign. The Poison Springs Battleground State Park, complete with picnic sites and outdoor commemorative exhibits, is where 300 Union forces lost their lives on April 18.
After you’ve finished exploring and picnicking in the park, visit the Oakland Cemetery. The largest Confederate cemetery in the area, the Oakland Cemetery is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. With so much history packaged into a small sliver of Arkansas, Camden is the perfect place to visit for any history buff eager to learn more.
When you fly to Camden, Arkansas, you’ll arrive at the Harrell Field Airport. Located just five miles north of town, Harrell Field Airport is the starting point of your tour through Civil War and Red River Campaign history.
