October 9-10, 2026

Plan Your Visit

Camden • SOuth Carolina

Explore everything you need to make the most of your weekend at the Southern Gothic Festival in historic Camden, South Carolina — from getting here and parking to venue info. Whether you’re coming for author talks, music, panels, lantern tours, or wandering between events, this guide will help you prepare for two unforgettable days of stories, folklore, and Southern charm.

By Car
Camden is located just off I-20, about 35 minutes from Columbia and less than two hours from Charleston or Charlotte. Free public parking is available near most festival venues, with additional paid parking lots downtown.

By Air
The nearest major airport is Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE), roughly 45 minutes away.

Rutledge Street (Downtown Camden)
Between Broad and Market Streets, Camden, SC 29020
The open-air concert takes place here on Saturday evening. Rutledge Street will be closed to vehicle traffic during the concert, creating a pedestrian-only space surrounded by historic storefronts, restaurants, and market vendors.

Revolutionary War Visitor Center 
212 Broad Street, Camden, SC 29020
The hub for author talks, panels, and headliner literary events.

Free parking lots and street parking are available near both locations. Look for Festival Parking signs. Please allow extra time before the concert, as nearby streets will be closed to traffic.

Talks and panels are free, general admission, and seating is first come, first served. The only ticketed events are the Ghost Tours, which often sell out — we suggest reserving your spot early.

Between sessions and performances, explore Camden’s dining scene — from classic Southern comfort food to contemporary farm-to-table fare. Food trucks will be on site Saturday, and several local restaurants will feature specialty drinks created to celebrate the festival weekend.

 

Downtown Camden Eats & Restaurants

Dining & Sit-Down:

  • Sam Kendall’s – Classic American fare with seafood, steaks, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Steeplechase Sports Bar & Grill – Casual bar & grill with comfort food, wings, burgers, and TVs for games.
  • B. Colson’s Steak, Seafood & Bourbon – Upscale Southern-inspired steakhouse with seafood and bourbon offerings.
  • Salud – Popular downtown Mexican kitchen & tequila bar.
  • Camden House Of Pizza – Long-time local favorite for pizza, Greek/Italian dishes, and subs.
  • Candy’s at the Granary – Cozy sandwich spot with soups, salads, and bakery treats.
  • DeBruhl’s Cafe – Classic Southern meat-and-three buffet and comfort classics.


Cafés & Light Bites:

  • The Loopy Lemon Cafe – Mediterranean-inspired café for brunch, lunch, and light fare.
  • Eats Take Home Cuisine – Take-away meals and prepared dishes to go.


Drinks & Small Plates:

  • Silver Leaf Cigar Lounge – Stylish spot for cigars, drinks, and small plates with a relaxed vibe.

The Revolutionary War Visitor Center is fully accessible, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and restrooms. If you have specific accessibility needs for any festival event, please contact us in advance so we can ensure the best possible experience.