Crater of Diamonds State Park, located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is a unique and fascinating destination for anyone interested in the thrill of diamond hunting. The park is open daily throughout the year, making it an excellent choice for state park enthusiasts looking to explore a one-of-a-kind natural wonder.
Park Hours and Admission Fees
Crater of Diamonds State Park is open daily, with the search area open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The park facilities, including the Visitor Center, Gift Shop, and Diamond Discovery Center, are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The park is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Admission fees for the park are as follows:
| Visitor Type | Admission Fee |
|---|---|
| Adults (13 years and older) | $15.00 |
| Children (ages 6-12) | $7.00 |
| Children under 6 years old | Free |
Amenities and Activities
In addition to the diamond search area, Crater of Diamonds State Park offers a variety of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. These include:
- Interpretive programs and diamond mining demonstrations
- Complimentary identification of rocks and minerals found in the park
- Walking trails
- Picnic sites
- Campgrounds
- Gift shop
The park also features a seasonal water park, Diamond Springs Water Park, which is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Bringing Your Own Equipment
Visitors to Crater of Diamonds State Park are allowed to bring their own mining equipment, such as shovels, buckets, and screens, to search for diamonds. The park also offers rental tools for those who prefer not to bring their own.
Pets and the Park
Pets are allowed in all facilities at Crater of Diamonds State Park, with the exception of the park gift shop and Diamond Springs Water Park. Pets must remain on a leash under the owner’s control at all times.
Notable Diamonds Found at the Park
Since 1972, visitors to Crater of Diamonds State Park have found more than 35,000 diamonds. Some of the most notable diamonds found at the park include:
- The 40.23-carat “Uncle Sam” diamond, the largest diamond ever unearthed in the United States.
- The 16.37-carat “Amarillo Starlight” diamond, found in 1975.
- The 8.52-carat “Star of Arkansas” diamond, found in 1975.
These remarkable finds are a testament to the unique geological features of the park and the excitement that can be found in diamond hunting.
Conclusion
Crater of Diamonds State Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers visitors the opportunity to search for their own diamonds in a natural setting. With its daily operating hours, diverse amenities, and the potential for remarkable discoveries, the park is a must-visit for state park enthusiasts and diamond hunters alike.
References:
– Crater of Diamonds State Park Facilities and Information Center
– Crater of Diamonds State Park Visitor Center Opening Hours
– Crater of Diamonds State Park Official Website