Campbell’s Field | Camden

Campbell’s Field was a prominent baseball stadium located on the Camden Waterfront in Camden, New Jersey, serving as a key component in the city’s waterfront revitalization efforts during the early 2000s. It officially opened on May 11, 2001, with a vision to provide a modern and vibrant venue for professional and collegiate baseball, while also acting as a catalyst for economic development and community engagement in a city seeking renewal.

Location and Design

Situated on the scenic Camden Waterfront, Campbell’s Field was strategically placed to offer breathtaking views of the Delaware River, the iconic Benjamin Franklin Bridge, and the Philadelphia skyline across the water. This waterfront location made the stadium uniquely appealing, combining urban access with an aesthetically pleasing backdrop, which enhanced the fan experience beyond just the sporting events.

The stadium was named through a sponsorship deal with the Campbell Soup Company, a major New Jersey-based corporation, which contributed $3 million for naming rights. This partnership reflected a broader commitment to linking local business investment with community development.

Stadium Features and Capacity

Campbell’s Field was designed as a mid-sized stadium, accommodating 6,425 spectators. The seating layout included two levels: a main lower bowl and an upper tier, creating an intimate yet vibrant atmosphere ideal for minor league baseball. Among the premium offerings were 20 luxury suites and 417 club seats, catering to corporate sponsors, VIP guests, and fans seeking an elevated viewing experience.

The playing field featured natural grass, with dimensions set at 325 feet down both the left and right field lines and 405 feet to center field, conforming to traditional baseball standards and providing a fair and competitive environment for players. Beyond the playing surface, the stadium was thoughtfully equipped with amenities designed to enhance fan enjoyment and family-friendly engagement:

Picnic Pavilion: A dedicated space for group gatherings and special events, allowing fans to enjoy food and socializing in a relaxed setting.

“Utz Fun Zone”: A children’s play area aimed at making the stadium experience appealing for families with young children, integrating entertainment beyond the game itself.

Diamond Café: An upscale buffet-style restaurant offering gourmet food and beverages, catering to fans desiring a more refined dining option during games.

Primary Tenants and Events

Campbell’s Field served as the home ballpark for the Camden Riversharks, an independent professional baseball team competing in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. The Riversharks called the stadium home from its opening in 2001 until 2015. During this period, the team played a vital role in the city’s sports culture, attracting local fans and hosting numerous baseball games that contributed to Camden’s sports entertainment scene.

In addition to the Riversharks, the stadium was used by collegiate teams for their home games, notably:

Rutgers University–Camden Scarlet Raptors baseball team: The stadium provided a professional-grade facility for the university’s baseball program.

Saint Joseph’s University and Temple University: Both institutions occasionally used the stadium for select games, benefiting from the quality venue and waterfront location.

Beyond baseball, Campbell’s Field hosted various special events, including concerts and notable sports events such as the 2011 Atlantic Qualifiers for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup. These events expanded the stadium’s role as a versatile community and entertainment venue, capable of drawing diverse audiences.

Challenges and Closure

Despite its initial success and importance to Camden’s waterfront rejuvenation, Campbell’s Field faced financial and operational challenges over time. The Camden Riversharks ceased operations in 2015 after struggling financially and failing to secure a renewed lease agreement with the Camden County Improvement Authority, which managed the stadium property.

These difficulties reflected broader challenges in sustaining minor league and independent league sports franchises, especially in urban areas undergoing economic transition. As a result, the stadium’s use dwindled, and it eventually ceased operations as a baseball venue.

Demolition and Redevelopment

In 2018, the Camden County Improvement Authority took ownership of the site and announced plans to demolish Campbell’s Field. The stadium’s demolition was part of a strategic initiative to create a new athletic complex aimed at better serving university athletics and the local community’s recreational needs.

The demolition cleared the way for the Camden Athletic Complex, a $16 million multi-purpose facility that officially opened in May 2022. This new complex includes:

A multi-purpose synthetic turf field suitable for baseball, softball, lacrosse, and field hockey.

An eight-lane running track designed for track and field events.

Modern facilities designed to support Rutgers University–Camden’s athletic programs as well as community sports and recreation.

This redevelopment marked a significant shift from a professional baseball-focused stadium to a versatile athletic facility designed to meet broader sports and community engagement goals.

Legacy and Impact

Although Campbell’s Field no longer exists, its legacy in Camden remains important. It was a central piece in the early 21st-century efforts to revive Camden’s waterfront, providing a visible symbol of investment, sports culture, and community pride. The stadium helped foster a sense of place and brought together residents and visitors in shared sporting and entertainment experiences.

Its waterfront location with stunning views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and Philadelphia skyline was often praised, making it one of the more picturesque stadiums in minor league baseball during its operation. The transition from Campbell’s Field to the Camden Athletic Complex reflects the city’s evolving needs and priorities, emphasizing sustainable, community-centered sports facilities that support youth, collegiate athletics, and local engagement.

In summary, Campbell’s Field was a significant sports and entertainment venue that played a meaningful role in Camden’s waterfront transformation and local sports scene during its 14 years of operation. Its replacement with the Camden Athletic Complex continues the mission of promoting sports, recreation, and community development in this historic urban area.