Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, offers a unique experience for state park touring enthusiasts, allowing visitors to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. The park features two main trails: the Little Missouri River Trail and the Prospector Trail.
The Little Missouri River Trail
The Little Missouri River Trail is a 1.2-mile loop trail, considered easy with hiking times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours. This trail provides barrier-free (ADA) access for the first half of its length, making it the longest wheelchair-accessible trail in Southwest Arkansas. The trail takes hikers through the woods from the campground to the scenic Little Missouri River, offering a relaxing one-hour hike over level terrain.
Highlights of the Little Missouri River Trail
- 1.2-mile loop trail
- Easy difficulty level
- Hiking time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Barrier-free (ADA) access for the first half of the trail
- Longest wheelchair-accessible trail in Southwest Arkansas
- Scenic views of the Little Missouri River
The Prospector Trail
The Prospector Trail is another 1.2-mile loop trail with easy difficulty. It takes approximately 3/4 to 1 hour to complete. This trail is a great option for those looking for a shorter hike while still enjoying the natural beauty of the park.
Highlights of the Prospector Trail
- 1.2-mile loop trail
- Easy difficulty level
- Hiking time: 3/4 to 1 hour
- Shorter hike option for visitors
Diamond Searching at Crater of Diamonds State Park
For diamond searching, the park’s 37-acre field is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and admission fees are $15.00 for adults, $7.00 for children (ages 6-12), and free for children under 6 years old. The park allows visitors to bring their own mining equipment or rent tools from the park. Interpretive programs are available year-round, and 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 Crater of Diamonds State Park
- 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
Amenities at Crater of Diamonds State Park
In addition to the hiking trails, Crater of Diamonds State Park offers the following amenities:
- 47 Class AAA campsites (50 Amp/30 Amp/Water/Sewer)
- 5 walk-in tent sites
- Gift shop
- Diamond Springs Water Park (open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day)
Conclusion
Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is a unique destination for state park touring enthusiasts. With its two main trails, the Little Missouri River Trail and the Prospector Trail, visitors can enjoy scenic hikes and the opportunity to search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source. The park’s amenities, including camping, a gift shop, and the seasonal Diamond Springs Water Park, make it a well-rounded destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
References:
– Little Missouri River Trail
– Crater of Diamonds State Park
– Prospector Trail