Maj. Gen. Fred Steele's forces retreated from Camden after being mauled at
Marks' Mills and Poison Spring. On the afternoon of April 29, the Union forces
reached Jenkins' Ferry and began crossing the Saline River, which was swollen
by heavy rain. Rebel forces arrived on the 30th and attacked repeatedly. The
Federals repulsed the attacks and finally crossed with all their men and
supply wagons, many of which they were compelled to abandon in the swamp north
of Saline. The Confederates bungled a good chance to destroy Steele's army,
which after crossing the river, regrouped at Little Rock.