State Parks and National Parks

Crater of Diamonds State Park

Snuggled among the pine forests of southwest Arkansas near Murfreesboro, the Crater of Diamonds State Park offers the only public diamond "mine" in the country. Visitors are allowed to search for their own diamonds at this rockhound's paradise for a small fee.

More than 70,000 diamonds have been found at the "Crater" (an eroded volcanic pipe), including such famous finds as the Uncle Sam (40.23 carats), the Star of Murfreesboro (34.25 carats) and the Amarillo Starlight (16.37 carats). An average of 600 diamonds are found each year.

Although diamonds are the big draw, there are other semi-precious gems and minerals in the park, including amethyst, agate, jasper, quartz and calcite.

The park sits on 911 pine-covered acres along the banks of the Little Missouri River. The 1.3-mile River Trail leads from the campground to the river and the 1.2-mile Prospector Trail loops around the west side of the diamond search area.

Modern campsites, picnic sites, a laundry, café and gift shop are available to visitors. The park also features a picnic pavilion, wildlife observation blind and water play area.

Although the park is open year-round, hours change seasonally. Call for information. There is a nominal fee to look for diamonds, but special rates are offered for organized groups of 15 or more.

Photo credits in order: Courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Photo by C.H. Pierce, courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism. Photo by A.C. Haralson, courtesy of Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.