Welcome to another installment of our Arkansas Spotlight series! Today, we're taking you on an exciting adventure to one of the most unique state parks in the country: Crater of Diamonds State Park. Located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, this park offers you the opportunity to search for real diamonds in a beautiful, natural setting. Not only is this park an exceptional destination for family fun, but it’s another reason we love living in Arkansas.

Photo from: flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/amyashcraft/4606978018/in/photostream/

A Geological Treasure Trove:

Crater of Diamonds State Park is a true geological marvel. It sits on a 37.5-acre plowed field, which is the eroded surface of the world's eighth-largest diamond-bearing volcanic crater. The park is open year-round, so you have plenty of opportunities to explore and dig for precious gemstones, including diamonds, amethysts, garnets, and many more. Crater of Diamonds was established as a state park in 1972, and in that time, over 33,000 diamonds have been discovered by visitors from all over the world.

A Unique Experience for the Whole Family:

Crater of Diamonds State Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience for the entire family. The admission price is low, and you can either rent tools and equipment or bring your own to sift through the soil and search for treasures. The park's staff is great! They are very knowledgeable always available to provide guidance and answer any questions about gem hunting.

And the best part? You get to keep whatever you find! It's a fun and exciting experience for both kids and adults. If you’re looking for adventure as well as a great learning experience that will also teach patience and persistence, a visit to Crater of Diamonds State Park is hard to beat!

https://www.flickr.com/photos/taylor-studios-inc/34113442652

Additional Park Amenities:

The park offers more than just diamond hunting; it also features a range of amenities that cater to a wide array of interests. For nature enthusiasts, there are walking trails and picnic areas, perfect for taking in the beauty of Arkansas' natural landscape. History buffs will appreciate the Diamond Discovery Center, which provides an engaging and interactive learning experience about the park's geology and history.

For those who enjoy camping, Crater of Diamonds State Park offers 47 campsites with water and electric hookups, as well as a bathhouse and laundry facilities. This makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation to explore the surrounding area.

Photos by: Kathy, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons;
Kathy (kthypryn), CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons;
Doug Wertman from Rogers, AR, USA, CC BY 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Photo: https://www.flickr.com/photos/jsjgeology/51735570295/in/photostream/

 

Crater of Diamonds State Park attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the local economy and making it an appealing location for property investments. The park's popularity has led to the growth of nearby businesses, such as restaurants, gift shops, and lodging options. This unique attraction also adds to the overall charm and character of Arkansas, making it an even more desirable place to call home.

Crater of Diamonds State Park is a shining example of the unique attractions that make Arkansas a great place to live, work, and play. So, grab your shovel and head to Murfreesboro to uncover the hidden gems that await you!