Camden County Soil Data
Camden County, North Carolina
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
4.7
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
14.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Camden County, North Carolina
Deeply Acidic, Dark Coastal Soils
Camden County has a notably acidic pH of 4.72, falling below the state average of 5.14 and the national median of 6.5. This chemical profile is common in coastal areas with high concentrations of organic material.
Silky Silt and Sand Mix
The soil contains 49.9% sand and a relatively high 33.6% silt, with 12.2% clay. The high silt content gives the ground a smoother texture that is much easier to work than the heavy clays found further west.
Top-Tier Organic Matter Levels
Camden boasts a massive 14.77% organic matter, nearly triple the state average of 5.12%. Coupled with a high available water capacity of 0.175 in/in, this soil is a powerhouse for storing nutrients and moisture.
Managing High Moisture Levels
Specific drainage classes are not provided, but the high organic and silt content suggests the soil remains naturally damp. This requires gardeners to ensure proper drainage to take full advantage of the fertile ground.
High-Yield Potential in Zone 8a
With a soil score of 49.8—nearly 20 points above the state average—Camden is ideal for corn, soybeans, and lush vegetables. Start your garden today to experience some of the most productive soil in the state.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 4.7. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Camden County have?
Camden County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 50% sand, 34% silt, and 12% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Camden County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Camden County's soil has a low pH of 4.7, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Camden County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Camden County.
What crops or plants grow well in Camden County's soil?
Based on Camden County's Loam texture, pH of 4.7, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Camden County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Camden County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Camden County
Soil Verdict
Camden County is in USDA hardiness zone 8a, a warm climate zone. where winter lows can reach 10°F. Mild winters mean soil rarely freezes deeply, allowing year-round microbial activity and faster organic matter breakdown.
Planting Guidance
Warm-season crops, citrus relatives, and heat-loving ornamentals do well. Cool-season vegetables should be planted in fall and winter. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Warm soils accelerate organic matter breakdown, so compost and mulch need replenishing more frequently than in cooler zones. Sandy soils common in warm zones drain quickly; water-retentive amendments like compost or peat help hold moisture.
Regional Context
Camden County closely matches the North Carolina average hardiness conditions. The zone range of 8a-8b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Camden County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in North Carolina
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.