Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for visitors to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. In August, the park’s summer season is in full swing, providing a unique and exciting experience for state park touring enthusiasts.
Admission Costs and Timing
The cost of admission to Crater of Diamonds State Park varies depending on age. Adults pay $15.00, children aged 6-12 pay $7.00, and children under 6 years old enter for free. These rates apply throughout August and the rest of the year.
When it comes to timing, it’s essential to plan your visit, especially during the summer months. The park’s summer season officially begins on Memorial Day Weekend each year, and summertime diamond searching requires careful planning and attention. It’s recommended to visit after it rains, as the wetter ground can make diamonds easier to spot. However, be aware that the temperature can be 10 degrees hotter in the minefield during August, so prepare accordingly.
Park Facilities and Amenities
The park’s facilities, including the Visitor Center, Gift Shop, Diamond Discovery Center, and Diamond Search Area, 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 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Campground/Picnic Area is open all year.
Diamond Springs Water Park, a great place to cool off after a summer day of digging for diamonds, is open Memorial Day-Labor Day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., but it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Due to lifeguard staffing and students returning to school, the water park may be open only on weekends starting mid-August.
Searching for Diamonds
Visitors can access the diamond search field, a 37 1/2-acre plowed field that represents the eroded surface of an ancient, diamond-bearing volcanic crater. You may bring your own mining equipment, but battery-operated or motor-driven mining tools are not allowed. Tools can also be rented from the park.
Crater of Diamonds State Park is known for its significant diamond finds. More than 35,000 diamonds have been found by park visitors since the Crater of Diamonds became an Arkansas state park in 1972. Notable diamonds found at the Crater 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; and the 8.52-carat Esperanza.
Unique Experiences and Challenges
Searching for diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park in August can be a unique and challenging experience. The hot summer temperatures, the need to plan around rainfall, and the competition for the best spots in the search field can all add to the excitement and difficulty of the endeavor.
However, the thrill of potentially uncovering a valuable diamond, the sense of adventure, and the opportunity to connect with the park’s rich geological history make Crater of Diamonds State Park a must-visit destination for state park touring enthusiasts with advanced knowledge and skills.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Crater of Diamonds State Park in August offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for state park touring enthusiasts to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. With careful planning, attention to detail, and a willingness to embrace the challenges of summer diamond hunting, visitors can have a truly memorable and rewarding experience at this unique Arkansas state park.
References:
– Crater of Diamonds State Park on TripAdvisor
– Summertime Diamond Searching Requires Planning and Attention
– Digging for Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds State Park
– Summer is in Full Swing at Crater of Diamonds
– Crater of Diamonds State Park Official Website