Arkansas State Park Guide

Crater of Diamonds State Park

Crater of Diamonds State Park in southwest Arkansas is known for its public diamond search area, where visitors can search for naturally occurring diamonds and other minerals. The park also offers hiking, camping, a visitor center, geology exhibits, the Diamond Discovery Center and access to the Little Missouri River.

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Crater of Diamonds State Park Overview

Crater of Diamonds State Park is a unique Arkansas destination where visitors can search a diamond-bearing volcanic field for naturally occurring diamonds. The park is located near Murfreesboro in southwest Arkansas and combines diamond hunting with hiking, camping, geology education and outdoor recreation.

Why visit: Visitors can search for diamonds and other minerals in a public diamond field and take home qualifying finds according to current park rules.

Signature attraction: The diamond search area is the park's defining attraction and is open to visitors who purchase admission for the search area.

Landscape: The park covers a broad pine-covered landscape near the Little Missouri River and includes a distinctive volcanic geological setting.

Best for: Diamond hunting, geology, families, outdoor recreation, camping, hiking and unusual Arkansas travel experiences.

Diamond Search Area

The diamond search area is the main reason most visitors come to Crater of Diamonds State Park. The public field covers approximately 37 acres and sits within the geological area created by an ancient volcanic pipe. Visitors search the plowed field using hand tools and other equipment permitted under current park rules.

Public searching: Visitors can search for naturally occurring diamonds in the designated search area after purchasing the required admission.

What you may find: Diamonds are the park's best-known discovery, but amethyst, agate, jasper, quartz, calcite and barite can also be found.

Search methods: Visitors can use permitted hand tools and techniques such as surface searching, digging, screening and washing.

Take-home finds: Visitors who find diamonds or other qualifying minerals can have their discoveries identified at the park and may keep eligible finds according to current rules.

Diamond Hunting at Crater of Diamonds

Diamond hunting at the park is more involved than simply walking across the field. Visitors may search the surface, dig material, screen soil and wash material to separate minerals. The best approach depends on weather, field conditions, available time and the equipment a visitor brings or rents.

Surface searching: After rain, some visitors search the exposed surface of the field for visible crystals and other minerals.

Digging: Visitors may dig in the designated search field while following excavation and safety rules.

Screening: Screening separates larger material from soil and can help searchers concentrate smaller rocks and minerals.

Washing: Washing processed material can help reveal minerals that are difficult to identify in ordinary soil.

Diamond Discovery Center

The Diamond Discovery Center provides an important starting point for visitors who want to understand how diamond hunting works. The facility includes equipment rental, diamond and geology exhibits, restrooms and services associated with the search area.

Equipment rental: Visitors can rent permitted diamond-searching equipment from the park, subject to current availability and rules.

Find identification: Stones can be brought to the park for identification and diamond registration.

Geology exhibits: Exhibits help explain the geological setting and minerals associated with the diamond field.

Planning stop: First-time visitors can use the facility to learn about current search procedures and regulations.

Famous Diamonds Found at the Crater

Crater of Diamonds has produced a number of notable discoveries since diamonds were first identified at the site. The park's history includes some of the largest diamonds found in the United States and numerous smaller discoveries by park visitors.

Uncle Sam: The 40.23-carat Uncle Sam is recognized as the largest diamond ever found in the United States.

Star of Arkansas: A 15.33-carat diamond discovered at the site became one of the park's most famous historic finds.

Amarillo Starlight: The 16.37-carat diamond is another notable discovery associated with the Crater.

More discoveries: Thousands of diamonds have been reported by visitors since the property became an Arkansas state park.

Geology and Volcanic Pipe

The diamond field at Crater of Diamonds is associated with an ancient volcanic pipe that brought material from deep within the earth toward the surface. This unusual geological setting is responsible for the diamonds and other minerals found in the search area.

Volcanic origin: The diamond-bearing material was brought toward the surface through an ancient volcanic process.

Lamproite: The volcanic material associated with the diamond field is commonly described as lamproite.

Other minerals: Visitors may encounter quartz, amethyst, agate, jasper, calcite, barite and other minerals.

Geology interest: The park provides an unusual opportunity to explore a geological site where visitors can actively search for minerals.

Hiking Trails and Little Missouri River

Crater of Diamonds State Park is not only a diamond hunting destination. Visitors can also explore wooded trails and the Little Missouri River, providing a change of pace from time spent in the search field.

River Trail: The River Trail is approximately 1.2 miles and leads through the woods toward the scenic Little Missouri River.

Accessible sections: Part of the River Trail is paved and barrier-free, with interpretive exhibits along the route.

Prospector Trail: The approximately 1.2-mile Prospector Trail provides views of geological features and requires admission to the mine field.

Nature observation: Forest and river environments provide opportunities for birds, plants and wildlife observation.

Camping at Crater of Diamonds State Park

Camping makes it possible to spend multiple days searching the diamond field and exploring the rest of the park. The campground provides developed sites for recreational vehicles as well as tent camping options.

RV camping: The park offers developed campsites with utilities for visitors traveling in recreational vehicles.

Tent camping: Tent sites provide a simpler overnight option for visitors who want to stay near the park's activities.

Reservations: Campsites can be reserved in advance, subject to current availability and Arkansas State Parks reservation rules.

Convenience: Staying inside the park can make it easier to spend multiple mornings and afternoons searching the field.

Diamond Springs Water Park and Recreation

During its operating season, Diamond Springs Water Park provides a family-oriented water recreation option within the state park. The park also has picnic areas, an amphitheater, a wildlife observation station and other facilities.

Diamond Springs Water Park: The seasonal water facility provides an additional recreation option for visitors, particularly during warmer weather.

Picnic areas: Picnic facilities provide space for breaks between diamond hunting and other park activities.

Amphitheater: The park provides an amphitheater for interpretive programs and other scheduled activities.

Wildlife observation: A wildlife observation station provides another way to experience the park beyond diamond hunting.

Family Activities and Outdoor Recreation

Crater of Diamonds State Park can be an engaging family destination because visitors can combine an unusual hands-on activity with hiking, nature observation, camping and seasonal recreation.

Diamond searching: Families can work together in the designated search field using permitted equipment and methods.

Educational experience: Geology exhibits and interpretive programs can help children understand the park's unusual landscape.

Easy outdoor activities: The River Trail, picnic areas and wildlife observation provide alternatives to extended diamond searching.

Overnight trips: Camping allows families to combine diamond hunting with a longer outdoor stay.

Planning a Visit to Crater of Diamonds State Park

Crater of Diamonds State Park is different from most Arkansas state parks because the main attraction is an active public diamond-searching experience. Visitors can spend several hours in the search field or plan a longer trip that combines diamond hunting with hiking, camping, geology exhibits and other park activities.

The park is open year-round, but individual facilities and activities can have seasonal operating schedules. Admission is required for the diamond search area, and seasonal facilities such as Diamond Springs Water Park may have separate operating schedules and fees.

Visitors who plan to search for diamonds should allow enough time to learn the park's rules, select an appropriate search method and process material carefully. Equipment can be rented at the park when available, while visitors may also bring permitted hand tools.

Important Planning Tip

Check current park hours, search-area admission, equipment availability and weather before traveling. The diamond field can become muddy after rain, while hot weather can make digging and carrying equipment more demanding.

Crater of Diamonds Hunting Guide

Diamond hunting is the defining activity at Crater of Diamonds State Park. There is no guarantee that a visitor will find a diamond, but the park provides a public search area where visitors can look for diamonds and other minerals.

Surface Searching

Surface searching involves walking through the designated field and looking for exposed crystals and minerals. Rain can sometimes expose or clean material at the surface, although conditions vary.

Digging

Visitors may dig in the designated search area while following current excavation and safety requirements. Holes must be handled safely and filled according to park regulations at the end of the day.

Screening

Screening can be used to separate larger rocks and material from soil. Visitors can use permitted hand-operated equipment in the search field.

Washing

Washing processed material can make it easier to identify certain minerals. Visitors should use the designated park facilities and follow current rules for processing material.

Diamond Identification

If you believe you have found a diamond, take the stone to the Diamond Discovery Center for identification. Park materials note that diamonds found at the Crater can be clear, white, yellow or brown.

Diamond Hunting Rules and Equipment

The diamond search area has specific rules designed to protect visitors, preserve the field and give everyone an opportunity to search. Visitors should review the current regulations before entering the search area.

Check Current Rules

Diamond-search regulations can change. Always review current Arkansas State Parks rules before bringing equipment or beginning excavation in the search field.

Best Time to Visit Crater of Diamonds State Park

Crater of Diamonds can be visited throughout the year, but weather has a major effect on diamond hunting and outdoor comfort. Spring and fall can provide milder temperatures, while summer is popular for water recreation and camping.

Spring: Spring can provide comfortable conditions for hiking and outdoor searching. Rain may make the field muddy but can also change the surface conditions of the search area.

Summer: Summer brings warm weather and longer daylight hours. Plan for heat, sun exposure and muddy or physically demanding work in the search field. Seasonal water recreation can provide another activity during warmer months.

Fall: Fall can provide cooler conditions for spending extended periods outdoors. Camping and outdoor activities can be particularly comfortable during milder weather.

Winter: Winter can provide quieter conditions, although cold temperatures, rain and changing ground conditions can affect outdoor activities. Check the forecast and current facility schedules before traveling.

Famous Diamonds Found at Crater of Diamonds

Crater of Diamonds has a long history of diamond discoveries, both before and after the property became an Arkansas state park. Several finds are particularly important to the site's history.

The Uncle Sam

The Uncle Sam was a 40.23-carat diamond found at the site in 1924. It is recognized as the largest diamond found in the United States.

The Star of Arkansas

The Star of Arkansas was a 15.33-carat diamond found at the Crater and became one of the site's notable historic discoveries.

The Amarillo Starlight

The Amarillo Starlight weighed 16.37 carats and is another famous diamond associated with the site.

Visitor Discoveries

Arkansas State Parks reports that visitors have found more than 30,000 diamonds since the property became a state park in 1972. The park continues to provide a public setting where visitors can search for naturally occurring diamonds.

Geology of Crater of Diamonds State Park

The Crater of Diamonds is associated with a volcanic pipe that brought diamond-bearing material toward the earth's surface. The resulting geological landscape is unusual because diamonds and other minerals can be found near the surface.

The park's search field contains material associated with the volcanic formation. Visitors may encounter a variety of minerals while looking for diamonds.

Camping and Lodging at Crater of Diamonds State Park

Camping inside the park is useful for visitors who want to spend more than one day searching for diamonds. The park provides developed campsites for recreational vehicles as well as tent camping.

The park's campground includes Class AAA sites with water and sewer service, as well as tent sites. Campers should register at the visitor center before occupying a campsite.

Campsites can be reserved in advance, subject to current availability and reservation policies. Visitors should check current Arkansas State Parks information before selecting dates.

Reserve Ahead

Consider reserving a campsite before traveling if you want to stay inside the park. Availability can be limited during busy weekends, holidays and popular outdoor travel periods.

Hiking and the Little Missouri River

Hiking provides an easy way to take a break from the diamond field while experiencing the wooded portions of the park. The trails also provide opportunities to learn about the geology and natural environment.

River Trail

The River Trail is approximately 1.2 miles and winds through the woods toward the Little Missouri River. The route includes paved and barrier-free portions with interpretive exhibits.

Prospector Trail

The Prospector Trail is approximately 1.2 miles and provides a closer look at geological features within the park. Access to this trail requires admission to the mine field.

Little Missouri River

The Little Missouri River adds a scenic natural feature to the park. Visitors can explore the river environment from the trail and enjoy the wooded landscape surrounding the water.

Trail Conditions

Rain can make trails and unpaved areas muddy or slippery. Wear suitable footwear, carry drinking water and check current weather conditions before starting a hike.

Family Activities at Crater of Diamonds

Crater of Diamonds can work well for families interested in a hands-on outdoor experience. Diamond hunting gives children and adults an opportunity to learn about geology while actively searching the landscape.

Adults should supervise children closely in the search area, particularly around excavations, water and uneven ground. Follow all current park safety rules.

Where Is Crater of Diamonds State Park?

Crater of Diamonds State Park is located approximately two miles southeast of Murfreesboro in southwest Arkansas. The park's address is 209 State Park Road, Murfreesboro, Arkansas 71958.

The park is reached from Arkansas Highway 301 near Murfreesboro. Visitors traveling from other parts of Arkansas should check a current navigation service for the most suitable route and allow additional time for local roads.

The nearest community for many visitor services is Murfreesboro, where travelers can find additional lodging, restaurants and other conveniences outside the park.

Park Contact

Crater of Diamonds State Park: (870) 285-3113

Check current Arkansas State Parks information for park hours, search-area admission, seasonal facilities, trail conditions, campground availability and current rules.

Frequently Asked Questions About Crater of Diamonds State Park

Where is Crater of Diamonds State Park?

Crater of Diamonds State Park is located about two miles southeast of Murfreesboro in southwest Arkansas.

What is Crater of Diamonds State Park known for?

The park is known for its public diamond search area, where visitors can search for naturally occurring diamonds and other minerals. It also offers hiking, camping, geology exhibits and access to the Little Missouri River.

Can you find real diamonds at Crater of Diamonds?

Yes. Diamonds have been found by visitors at the park. The property is known for naturally occurring diamonds associated with its unusual volcanic geological setting.

Can you keep a diamond you find at Crater of Diamonds?

Visitors may keep qualifying discoveries according to current park rules. If you think you have found a diamond, take it to the Diamond Discovery Center for identification and registration.

How big is the Crater of Diamonds search area?

The public diamond search area covers approximately 37 acres. Searching is confined to the designated field and is subject to current park regulations.

What other minerals can you find at Crater of Diamonds?

In addition to diamonds, visitors may find minerals such as amethyst, agate, jasper, quartz, calcite and barite.

Do you have to pay to search for diamonds?

Admission fees apply to the diamond search area. Current fees and operating information can change, so visitors should check current Arkansas State Parks information before traveling.

Can you rent diamond hunting equipment?

The park offers diamond-search equipment for rent, subject to current availability. Visitors may also bring permitted equipment that complies with park regulations.

What equipment should I bring to Crater of Diamonds?

Visitors may want to bring permitted hand tools, containers, gloves, water, sun protection and clothing suitable for muddy outdoor conditions. Check current park rules before bringing specialized equipment.

Can you dig for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds?

Yes. Digging is permitted in the designated search area subject to excavation, safety and equipment regulations. Visitors must follow current requirements for handling and refilling excavations.

Can you surface search for diamonds?

Yes. Surface searching is one of the methods visitors can use in the designated search field. Recent rainfall can change surface conditions, although results are never guaranteed.

Is Crater of Diamonds good for families?

The park provides a hands-on outdoor experience that can work well for families interested in geology, diamond hunting, hiking, camping and seasonal recreation.

Does Crater of Diamonds State Park have hiking trails?

Yes. The park includes the approximately 1.2-mile River Trail and the approximately 1.2-mile Prospector Trail, along with other opportunities to explore the park landscape.

What is the River Trail at Crater of Diamonds?

The River Trail is an approximately 1.2-mile wooded trail that leads toward the Little Missouri River. Part of the trail is paved and barrier-free and includes interpretive exhibits.

What is the Prospector Trail?

The Prospector Trail is an approximately 1.2-mile route that provides visitors with opportunities to see geological features within the park. Mine-field admission is required for access.

Does Crater of Diamonds have camping?

Yes. The park has developed camping options including RV campsites and tent sites. Visitors should check current availability and reservation requirements before traveling.

Can you camp at Crater of Diamonds State Park?

Yes. Staying overnight in the park can be convenient for visitors who want multiple days for diamond hunting and outdoor activities.

Does Crater of Diamonds have a water park?

Yes. Diamond Springs Water Park is a seasonal recreation facility at the park. Operating dates, hours and admission requirements can vary.

Is Crater of Diamonds State Park open year-round?

The park is open year-round, but individual facilities and activities can operate on seasonal schedules. Visitors should check current park information before planning a specific activity.

What is the best time to visit Crater of Diamonds?

Spring and fall can provide comfortable outdoor temperatures, while summer offers longer daylight and seasonal water recreation. Weather can affect field and trail conditions in every season.

Does rain help with diamond hunting?

Rain can change the surface of the search field and may expose or clean material, but rainfall does not guarantee that visitors will find diamonds. Field conditions can also become muddy and more difficult after heavy rain.

What colors are diamonds found at Crater of Diamonds?

Diamonds found at the Crater can occur in several colors, including clear, white, yellow and brown.

What is the largest diamond found at Crater of Diamonds?

The Uncle Sam, found in 1924, weighed 40.23 carats and is recognized as the largest diamond found in the United States.

How many diamonds have been found at Crater of Diamonds?

Arkansas State Parks reports that more than 30,000 diamonds have been found by visitors since the property became a state park in 1972.

Is there a guarantee you will find a diamond?

No. Visitors can search the public field, but finding a diamond is not guaranteed. Results depend on conditions, search method, time spent and chance.

Can you bring motorized diamond hunting equipment?

Motor-operated and battery-operated diamond-searching equipment is not permitted in the diamond search area. Visitors should review current equipment regulations before traveling.

Can you dig anywhere in the park?

No. Diamond searching and digging are confined to the designated search area. Visitors must follow current boundaries and park excavation regulations.

Do you have to refill holes at Crater of Diamonds?

Yes. Current search-area rules require visitors to refill excavations to the level of the original surface at the end of each day.

Where can you identify a diamond found at the park?

Visitors can take suspected diamonds and other stones to the Diamond Discovery Center for identification and diamond registration.

Is Crater of Diamonds State Park worth visiting for geology?

The park provides an unusual opportunity to explore a diamond-bearing volcanic geological site while also searching for minerals in the field. Geology exhibits and interpretive facilities add educational context to the experience.

What should I bring to Crater of Diamonds State Park?

Consider bringing drinking water, sun protection, gloves, suitable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear and containers for permitted finds. Visitors planning to dig or screen should check current equipment rules before bringing tools.

Can you visit Crater of Diamonds without hunting for diamonds?

Yes. Visitors can hike, explore the Little Missouri River, learn about geology, camp, picnic, observe wildlife and participate in other park activities. Some attractions and trails may have separate access or seasonal requirements.