Campbell's Field
Camden, NJ

It’s not always easy for a franchise to make a go of it in one of the independent leagues, especially when there’s a Major League team across the river.  The Camden Riversharks of the independent Atlantic League haven’t just survived, they’ve thrived.  Despite playing across the Delaware River from the Philadelphia Phillies, the team averaged a healthy 4,309 fans a game in 2004.

The team’s park, which devotes a significant amount of space to children’s activities, is a gem. 

Both the interior and exterior generate rave reviews, but the greatest praise goes to what’s beyond the outfield walls.

That’s because fans in Campbell’s Field are treated to a view that rivals any in baseball.  Not only do you have the massive Ben Franklin Bridge and the Delaware River just beyond the outfield, there’s also the stunning skyline of downtown Philly across the river.  While the sun is setting, it’s easy to forget all about the game on the field because the view is so captivating. 

It causes you to remember that there are some very nice ballparks in independent baseball leagues not affiliated with the majors.

Little wonder that Campbell’s Field was named The Ballpark of the Year by Digitalballparks.com for 2003.

Select A Top Ten 2005 Ballpark Top of Story 1. FirstEnergy Stadium, Reading PA 2. Dell Diamond, Round Rock, TX 3. SBC Bricktown Ballpark, Oklahoma 4. Isotopes Park, Albuquerque, NM 5. Campbell's Field, Camden, NJ 6. The Epicenter, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 7. Dr. Pepper/Seven Up Ballpark, Frisco, TX 8. KeySpan Park, Brooklyn, NY 9. AutoZone Park, Memphis, TN 10. Fifth Third Field - Dayton, OH