Crater of Diamonds State Park offers park visitors a one-of-a-kind adventure, the opportunity to hunt for real diamonds. Best of all, visitors get to keep any gems they find, regardless of value. "Finders-keepers" is the policy here at this unique state park located in southwest Arkansas near Murfreesboro. Park prospectors search over a 37-acre plowed field, the eroded surface of an ancient, diamond-bearing volcanic pipe that is the world's eighth largest in surface area. Prospectors access the field through the park visitor center that features exhibits and an audiovisual program explaining the site's geology and tips on recognizing diamonds in the rough.
Diamonds were first discovered at this site in 1906 and, since then, over 75,000 diamonds have been unearthed here. Notable diamonds include the 40.23-carat "Uncle Sam," [the largest diamond ever unearthed in the United States]; the 16.37-carat "Amarillo Starlight;" the 15.33-carat "Star of Arkansas" and the 3.03-carat "Strawn-Wagner Diamond" that was cut to a 1.09-carat gem graded "D" flawless O/O/O, the highest grade a diamond can achieve by the American Gem Society.
Crater of Diamonds became an Arkansas state park in 1972, and since then over 24,000 diamonds have been carried home by park visitors. Garnet, amethyst, jasper, agate, quartz and more can also be found here. Digging tools are available for rent. The park staff provide free identification and certification of diamonds. Park interpreters present programs about diamonds, the geology of the gem-bearing diamond pipe, the park's history, and its diversity of plant and animal species.
The park offers 59 Standard B campsites, picnic sites, a cafe, standard pavilion that includes restrooms, laundry, gift shop, hiking trails and interpretive programs.
The park's $1.2 million, mining-themed aquatic playground, Diamond Springs, is located adjacent to the park's diamond search area. The 14,700-square-foot facility features a 4,166-square-foot wading pool with aquatic playground equipment including spray geysers, sprayers, jets, animated waterspouts, cascades, two water slides and waterfall hideaways. The facility includes a pool deck with three shaded cabanas, tables with umbrellas and lounge chairs. Visitors of all ages can enjoy this sparkling play pool.
The park's new interpretive Diamond Discovery Center will open in spring 2005.
Crater of Diamonds State Park is located two miles southeast of Murfreesboro on Ark. 301.
Admission to Search Area/day: Adult-$6 each; Child (age 6—12)-$3each
Group Rates (15 or more with advance notice)—1/2 above fees
Diamond Springs
$5/person 42 inches in height and above; $3.50/person under 42 inches in height
