For centuries, Kameoka served as a key transportation point to connect San'in region and Tanba providence with Kyoto.

[2] Kameoka is notable as the launch point for Hozugawa Kudari, a boat ride down the Hozu River.

On January 1, 1955, Kameoka merged with 15 neighboring villages all within Minami-Kuwada District, and was raised to city status.

Kameoka has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral town council of 24 members.

In terms of national politics, the city is part of Kyoto 4th district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

For centuries, area farmers provided ingredients used for traditional Japanese food served in Kyoto including chestnuts, black beans, azuki, rice, matsutake, yams, and daikon.

At present, the area is a mix of agriculture, light manufacturing and is increasingly a commuter town for Kyoto.