Crater of Diamonds State Park is a unique destination located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, where visitors have the opportunity to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. Established as an Arkansas state park in 1972, the park encompasses a 37-acre field, the eroded surface of a volcanic crater, where people can find a variety of rocks, minerals, and gemstones, keeping any rock or mineral they discover.
Crater of Diamonds State Park Facilities and Amenities
The park offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including:
- Walking trails
- Picnic sites
- Gift shop
- Campground with 47 Class AAA campsites and 5 walk-in tent sites
- Diamond Springs Water Park (seasonal)
The park’s facilities, including the visitor center, gift shop, and Diamond Discovery Center, are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. The diamond search area is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the same holiday closures. The campground and picnic area are open all year, while the Diamond Springs Water Park operates from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Admission Fees at Crater of Diamonds State Park
The admission fees for Crater of Diamonds State Park are as follows:
| Visitor Type | Admission Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults | $15.00 |
| Children (ages 6-12) | $7.00 |
| Children under 6 years old | $0.00 |
Diamond Discoveries at Crater of Diamonds State Park
Crater of Diamonds State Park has a rich history of diamond discoveries, with more than 35,000 diamonds found by visitors since 1972. Some of the notable diamonds discovered at the park include:
- The 40.23-carat Uncle Sam, the largest diamond ever unearthed in the U.S.
- The 16.37-carat Amarillo Starlight
- The 15.33-carat Star of Arkansas
- The 8.52-carat Esperanza
Visiting Crater of Diamonds State Park
To visit Crater of Diamonds State Park, you can contact the park at the phone number (870) 285-3113. The park is open daily, and visitors are welcome to search for diamonds and other gemstones in the 37-acre diamond search area. Whether you’re a seasoned gem hunter or a first-time visitor, Crater of Diamonds State Park offers a unique and exciting experience for all.
Conclusion
Crater of Diamonds State Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that allows visitors to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. With a rich history of diamond discoveries, a variety of amenities, and a beautiful natural setting, the park is a must-visit for anyone interested in geology, gemstones, or outdoor adventure. So, if you’re planning a trip to Arkansas, be sure to add Crater of Diamonds State Park to your itinerary and call the park at (870) 285-3113 to start planning your visit.
References
- Crater of Diamonds State Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/crater-diamonds-state-park/facilities
- Crater of Diamonds State Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/crater-diamonds-state-park/camping
- Crater of Diamonds State Park. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.arkansas.com/murfreesboro/accommodations/crater-diamonds-state-park