Key Highlights
Here’s a snapshot of what makes Crater of Diamonds State Park a must-visit destination.
- Explore the world’s only public diamond mine where you can search for real diamonds.
- Anything you find is yours to keep, a unique policy for a state park.
- Dig in a 37-acre plowed field, the eroded surface of a volcanic crater.
- Learn to identify gems at the Diamond Discovery Center with help from park staff.
- Use different methods like wet and dry sifting in the diamond search area.
- Enjoy other park facilities, including hiking trails and a seasonal water park.
Introduction
Are you looking for a truly unique outdoor adventure? Imagine digging in the dirt and uncovering a real diamond that you can take home. At Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, this isn’t just a dream—it’s a reality. This is one of the only places on the planet where you can go on a diamond hunt in a public search area. Whether you’re a seasoned gem hunter or a curious first-timer, the park offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Getting to Crater of Diamonds State Park
Planning your journey to this one-of-a-kind state park is the first step in your diamond search adventure. Located just a couple of hours from Little Rock, Crater of Diamonds State Park is an easy and exciting road trip destination for park visitors looking to try their luck.
The park is conveniently situated for those exploring Arkansas, and the drive itself is part of the fun. Once you arrive, you’ll check in at the visitor center and Diamond Discovery Center to begin your quest. Let’s look at the specific directions and accessibility information.
Location and Directions
Crater of Diamonds State Park is located at 209 State Park Rd, Murfreesboro, AR 71958. Its position makes it an accessible trip from several key locations in Arkansas. Have you ever wondered where this unique state park is located and how to get there?
If you’re driving from Little Rock, the journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll take Interstate 30 South towards Texarkana, then use Exit 73A for U.S. Highway 70 West. From there, it’s a scenic drive that leads you to Arkansas 301 South, with clear signs guiding you to the park. Visitors coming from Hot Springs National Park can expect about an hour’s drive east on U.S. Highway 70.
For those traveling from farther away, the closest airports are Texarkana Regional Airport (about an hour away) and Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock (about 1.5 hours away). No matter how you travel, reaching the park is a straightforward part of your adventure.
Parking and Accessibility Info
Once you arrive at the state park, you will find ample parking available for cars, RVs, and travel trailers. The main parking area provides convenient access to the visitor center, where your diamond digging journey officially begins. What about getting around the park?
The park facilities are designed with accessibility in mind. Most buildings, including the visitor center and restrooms, are accessible to all visitors. The park also features paved pathways to help everyone navigate the main areas comfortably. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the park’s amenities before heading to the field.
However, accessibility in the diamond search area itself can vary. The 37-acre field is plowed regularly, and its condition depends on the weather. After rain, the field can become muddy and difficult to navigate.
- Accessible visitor center, restrooms, and gift shop.
- Paved trails connect some park facilities.
- The diamond search area’s terrain changes with the weather.
- Ample parking for various vehicle sizes.
Entry Fees, Permits, and Park Hours
Before you start your treasure hunt, it’s important to know about the park’s admission details. An entry fee is required to access the diamond search area, but you won’t need any special permits for your hunt. Your admission ticket gives you all-day access to the field.
Park hours can change depending on the season, so it’s always a good idea to check the official state park website before you go. Below, you’ll find more specific information on admission costs and the park’s operating schedule.
Admission Costs and What’s Included
The entry fee for a day of diamond hunting is quite reasonable and provides access to the main attraction: the 37-acre diamond field. Is there an entry fee or special permit required for Crater of Diamonds State Park? Yes, there is a daily fee, but no special permits are needed for recreational searching.
Your admission covers your entrance to the search area and access to park facilities like the Diamond Discovery Center, where staff can identify your finds for free. If you need equipment, you can rent it for an extra cost, which typically requires a security deposit. You can purchase your tickets online in advance or at the park itself.
Here is a breakdown of the typical admission costs. Remember to check the official park website for the most current pricing.
| Age Group | Entry Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults (13+) | $15.00 |
| Children (6-12) | $7.00 |
| Children (Under 6) | Free |
Park Hours and Seasonal Changes
Knowing the park hours is key to planning a successful visit. The state park generally operates year-round, but there are seasonal changes to be aware of. The visitor center and Diamond Discovery Center are typically open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., while the diamond search area itself is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
It’s wise to arrive early to make the most of your digging time, especially during summer when temperatures can climb. The park is open daily with a few exceptions. It closes for major holidays to allow staff to be with their families.
Be sure to check the park’s official website for any unexpected closures or adjusted hours due to weather or other events.
- The park is open daily.
- It is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
- Hours may vary by season, so always confirm before your trip.
Essential Things to Know Before Your Visit
A little preparation can make your diamond hunting adventure much more enjoyable. The diamond search area is a large, open field, and being ready for the conditions will give you the best shot at a fun and successful day. What should you know before visiting Crater of Diamonds State Park?
First-time visitors and seasoned pros alike should familiarize themselves with the park rules and the best techniques for finding gems. Knowing what to bring and what to expect from the diamond field will set you up for a great experience. Let’s cover the essentials you’ll need and the policies you should follow.
What to Bring for Diamond Hunting
Packing the right gear is crucial for a comfortable and productive day in the diamond search area. The terrain is essentially a giant dirt field that can get muddy, so dress in clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty. Sturdy, waterproof boots are a much better choice than sneakers.
For the actual diamond digging, you’ll want some basic tools. A small shovel or trowel, a bucket, and a sifting screen are essential. You can bring your own or rent a basic or advanced kit at the park. For your best chance at success, especially if you plan on wet sifting, these tools are a must.
Don’t forget personal items for comfort and safety. The search area has limited shade, so sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water are non-negotiable. Bringing snacks or a packed lunch is also a smart idea.
- Clothes and shoes that can get muddy
- Small shovel, bucket, and sifting screens
- Gardening gloves to protect your hands
- Sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water
- Snacks and a cooler
Rules and Policies for Visitors
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone, the state park has a few important rules for visitors. Before you begin your diamond search, you must purchase a ticket at the visitor center. This is also where you can get information and rent equipment.
The park has a generous pet policy, allowing leashed pets on the grounds. However, pets are not permitted in most buildings, including the gift shop and bathhouses, or in the Diamond Springs Water Park. Following these rules helps keep the park clean and safe.
If you think you’ve found a diamond, the park staff at the Diamond Discovery Center are there to help. They offer free identification services and will certify any genuine diamonds you find. Remember to be respectful of other hunters and the land as you search.
- All visitors must have a valid ticket for the search area.
- Pets are allowed on a leash but are restricted from certain areas.
- The park staff will identify your finds for free.
- Keep what you find, but be mindful of park property and other visitors.
Facilities and Amenities at the Park
Crater of Diamonds State Park offers more than just a field for digging. The park is equipped with a range of facilities and amenities to make your visit comfortable and entertaining. From the informative visitor center to shaded picnic areas, you’ll find everything you need for a full day of fun.
After a few hours of searching, you might want to cool off at the Diamond Springs Water Park or enjoy a packed lunch with your family. Let’s explore the different amenities available, including restrooms, equipment rentals, and the gift shop.
Restrooms, Picnic Areas, and Visitor Center
The main hub of park facilities is the visitor center. Here, you’ll find clean restrooms, helpful staff, and fascinating exhibits about the park’s history and geology. You can see real diamonds found in the park, including the famous Strawn-Wagner diamond, which is a truly cool sight.
When you need a break from digging, there are several picnic areas with picnic tables where you can relax and refuel. While there is a small café with limited options, bringing your own food and drinks is a popular choice. These shaded spots offer a welcome respite from the sun.
The park also features the Diamond Springs Water Park, a mining-themed aquatic park perfect for cooling off on a hot day. It requires a separate admission fee but is a fantastic amenity for families.
- Clean restrooms located in the visitor center.
- Shaded picnic areas for meals and breaks.
- Exhibits and found diamonds on display at the visitor center.
- A seasonal water park for family fun (separate admission).
Equipment Rentals and Gift Shop
Don’t have your own digging tools? No problem. The park offers equipment rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. You can rent everything from a basic kit with a shovel, bucket, and screen set to a more advanced kit for serious searching.
A security deposit is required for all equipment rentals, which is refunded when you return the items. This is a convenient option if you don’t want to bring your own gear or decide to try a different sifting method during your visit. You can find more details on the park’s website.
Before you leave, be sure to stop by the gift shop. It’s a great place to find souvenirs to remember your trip. While this guide doesn’t use affiliate links, it’s worth noting that the gift shop is the perfect spot to grab a memento of your diamond hunting adventure.
- Basic and advanced digging kits available for rent.
- Rentals include items like a bucket, small shovel, and screen set.
- A refundable security deposit is required for all rentals.
- The gift shop offers souvenirs and memorabilia.
The Diamond Search Experience
The heart of your visit is the diamond search itself. Walking onto the 37-acre plowed search area, you’ll see a mix of families, hobbyists, and dedicated prospectors. The atmosphere is one of excitement and anticipation, as anyone could be the next to find real diamonds.
There are three primary methods for diamond hunting: surface searching, dry sifting, and wet sifting. Each technique offers a different approach to uncovering gems, and many visitors try a combination of all three. Let’s dig into the tips that can increase your chances of success.
Tips and Techniques for Finding Gems
How can you search for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park? The simplest method is surface searching. This involves walking slowly through the diamond field and scanning the top of the ground for shiny stones that stand out. Diamonds here have a metallic luster and are often smooth and rounded. Going after a heavy rain gives you the best chance with this method, as the water washes away loose soil.
For a more hands-on approach, try dry sifting. This works best when the soil is dry and powdery. You use a screen to sift loose soil, then carefully check the remaining gravel for gems. For the most productive technique, however, many experts recommend wet sifting. This involves taking a bucket of dirt to one of the covered washing pavilions or open sluice boxes.
You’ll use a screen set and water to wash the dirt away, leaving behind heavier gravel. Carefully inspect the remaining material for diamonds, which are denser than most other minerals. Diamonds found here are typically white, brown, or yellow and about the size of a match head.
- Surface Searching: Look for shiny, lustrous rocks on the ground.
- Dry Sifting: Use a screen to filter dry dirt.
- Wet Sifting: Wash dirt with water to isolate heavier gravel.
- Look for smooth, rounded stones with a greasy or oily appearance.
What Happens If You Find a Diamond
The most exciting part of the diamond search is the possibility of finding a genuine gem. So, what happens if you find a diamond? The park has a straightforward and thrilling policy: you get to keep what you find. This applies to any diamonds, semi-precious stones, or minerals you unearth from their original volcanic source.
If you find a stone you think might be valuable, take it to the Diamond Discovery Center. The park staff there are experts and provide a free identification service. They will examine your finds, let you know what you have, and if it’s one of the real diamonds, they will weigh and certify it for you free of charge.
There have been incredible success stories over the years. Since 1972, over 35,000 diamonds have been found by park visitors. Notable discoveries include the 40.23-carat “Uncle Sam,” the largest diamond ever unearthed in the United States. While most finds are small, the chance of a big discovery keeps the dream alive.
- You get to keep any diamond or gem you find.
- Take your finds to the Diamond Discovery Center for free identification.
- Park staff will certify your diamond, providing its weight and characteristics.
- Famous large diamonds have been found here, making it a place of legendary discoveries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, visiting Crater of Diamonds State Park offers a unique adventure for gem enthusiasts and families alike. From understanding the park’s layout and facilities to mastering tips for successful diamond hunting, this guide is designed to enhance your experience. Equip yourself with the right knowledge, adhere to the park’s rules, and enjoy the thrill of searching for real gems in the natural beauty of Arkansas. Whether you’re a seasoned prospector or a curious beginner, every trip to this remarkable park can lead to unexpected treasures. Ready to dig into your own adventure? Book a free consultation with us to plan your perfect trip today!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Crater of Diamonds State Park?
The best time to visit the state park is during the spring and fall. The cooler temperatures make the diamond search more comfortable. The peak season sees more visitors, but your best chance of finding a diamond is often after a good rain, which washes away dirt and exposes gems.
How do I book camping or lodging at Crater of Diamonds State Park?
To book camping or lodging at the state park, you should visit the park’s website. You can check availability for the 47 AAA campsites and make reservations online. The advantage of the campground is its proximity to the diamond field, allowing you to start your search early.
Are there guided tours or educational programs at Crater of Diamonds State Park?
Yes, the state park offers interpretive programs and educational resources. At the visitor center, you can watch instructional videos and sometimes see live demonstrations. The knowledgeable park staff are always available to answer questions, identify finds, and share information about the park’s unique history and geology.