Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is a unique destination where visitors can search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, the park has established a set of rules and regulations that are enforced by PD 3040. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key rules and regulations that visitors should be aware of when planning a trip to this one-of-a-kind state park.
Hours of Operation and Admission
The park 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., following the same holiday schedule. The campground and picnic area are open all year, while the Diamond Springs Water Park operates seasonally, from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the exception of Mondays and Tuesdays.
Admission fees are as follows:
| Visitor Type | Admission Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults (13-61) | $15.00 |
| Children (ages 6-12) | $7.00 |
| Children under 6 years old | Free |
Interpretive programs are available year-round, and the park encourages visitors to contact them for availability.
Rules and Regulations
- Safety and Welfare: The rules and regulations are designed to ensure the safety and welfare of all visitors, as well as to provide equal opportunities for everyone to enjoy the search area and protect the park’s natural resources.
- Solicitation: Soliciting the sale of diamonds and other gemstones on park property is prohibited.
- Behavior: Riotous, boisterous, threatening, or indecent behavior is not allowed in the park.
- Children Supervision: Due to the absence of fences and warning signs in some park locations, parents are required to supervise their children to preserve scenic beauty and ecology.
- Hours of Operation: Hours of operation for all park facilities are subject to seasonal change. Visitors should check park bulletin boards or the information desk for current operating hours.
- Mining Tools: Visitors may bring their own mining equipment, but battery-operated or motor-driven mining tools are not allowed. Tools can also be rented from the park.
- Pets: Pets are allowed in all facilities, with the exception of the park gift shop and Diamond Springs Water Park, as long as they remain on a leash under the owner’s control at all times.
Diamond Discovery Center and Identification
The Diamond Discovery Center offers educational opportunities for visitors to learn about rocks and minerals found at the park and how to search for diamonds using various techniques. Park staff provide complimentary identification of rocks and minerals found at the park, as well as diamond mining demonstrations and other interpretive programs.
Notable Diamonds Found at the Crater
Since the Crater of Diamonds became an Arkansas state park in 1972, more than 35,000 diamonds have been found by park visitors. Notable diamonds 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.
By understanding and following the rules and regulations at Crater of Diamonds State Park, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience while searching for their own diamond treasures. Whether you’re a seasoned park enthusiast or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you navigate the park and make the most of your visit.
References:
– Arkansas Administrative Code – Rules for the Search Area for the Crater of Diamonds State Park (PD 2205)
– Crater of Diamonds State Park – Arkansas State Parks
– Cornell Law School – Arkansas Code of Regulations