Campbell's Field Camden, NJ
Stadium Minor League History: Atlantic League 2001-present
Current Status: Home
of the Camden Riversharks of the Atlantic League (independent)
What's Good: Campbell's
Field is a fine example of recent ballpark design, but what will stick
with most folks long after a visit here is the setting. Right on
the Delaware River, the stadium is dominated by the presence of the enormous
Ben Franklin Bridge connecting New Jersey and Philadelphia, which runs
beyond the outfield fence. Cars as well as commuter trains
speed by during the game, and at dusk the silhouette of the bridge against
the sky is breathtaking. The Philadelphia skyline is visible as well
from the first base stands. Though the setting is spectacular, the
stadium itself is pretty nice, too. A handsome
brick exterior greets visitors, and inside the park, the
grandstand is attractive as well. As with many of the new parks,
a cross-aisle separates the lower from the upper seating areas, while a
large second level features luxury suites and several group seating areas.
The concourse running behind the last row of the seating area was wide,
and featured numerous concession stands and a souvenir store. Parking
was ample (and relatively cheap at $2), and the staff was professional.
Factor in the new ballparks in Atlantic City, Somerset, and Newark, along
with a high quality of baseball featuring a number of former big leaguers
(the Canseco twins were playing for the visiting Newark Bears when I visited),
and I can see why the Atlantic League has been so successful.
What's Not So Good: There's
very little to complain about here -- it really is a nice ballpark with
a dramatic setting. Camden, unfortunately, is a city which has seen
better days, and it's undeniably depressing to see a team which draws so
many fans from neighboring suburban areas in a city which could use some
major economic help. The ballpark is actually part of a waterfront
develepment project which includes a concert arena and an aquarium, but
whether any of this will actually benefit the people of Camden remains
to be seen.
This Photo: May 30, 2001 Camden Riversharks vs. Newark Bears
