Camp Chase

Camp Chase was a prisoner-of-war camp located in Columbus, Ohio, that operated during the Civil War and housed thousands of captives. The grounds featured barracks, earthen fortifications, and military structures spread across a substantial area, with some remains visible today.

The camp was established in 1861 and served as a detention facility for Confederate soldiers throughout the Civil War. After the war ended, the site was abandoned and eventually developed, leaving only scattered remnants of its original structures.

Camp Chase brought together people from different parts of the country during a difficult time in American history. The site today shows how war created connections between people from the North and South.

The site is located within Columbus and is easily accessible, with some historic earthworks and monuments still visible. Visiting works best on foot or by car, and it's worth checking in advance which areas are open to the public.

More than 2200 prisoners died at the camp and were buried in its cemetery, now marked by a monument to their memory. This large number speaks to the harsh conditions that existed throughout the war years.

Location: Columbus

GPS coordinates: 39.94389,-83.07583

Latest update: December 15, 2025 13:27