Ever dreamed of striking it rich with a sparkling diamond you dug up yourself? At Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, that dream could become reality. This 911-acre gem of a destination is the only place in the world where you can hunt for real diamonds in their original volcanic source and keep whatever you find. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or a curious family looking for a unique adventure, this park offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Let’s dive into why Crater of Diamonds should be your next travel stop!
Why Crater of Diamonds State Park Is a Must-Visit
Imagine walking through a 37-acre field, sifting through dirt, and uncovering a gem that could be worth thousands. That’s the magic of Crater of Diamonds State Park. Since 1972, when it became a state park, over 35,000 diamonds have been found by visitors, making it a bucket-list spot for treasure hunters and nature lovers alike. Beyond diamonds, you’ll find amethyst, garnet, jasper, and quartz scattered across this ancient volcanic crater. It’s like stepping into a geological treasure chest!
A Geological Wonder Born Millions of Years Ago
About 100 million years ago, a volcanic eruption brought diamonds from deep within the Earth’s mantle to the surface in what’s now southwest Arkansas. This event created the Prairie Creek Diatreme, a funnel-shaped crater that’s the heart of the park. Over time, erosion exposed these precious gems, making them accessible to anyone with a shovel and a dream. It’s like nature decided to share its jewelry box with the world!
How Diamonds Got Here
Diamonds form under extreme heat and pressure deep in the Earth’s mantle, about 90 miles below the surface. At Crater of Diamonds, a violent volcanic explosion carried these gems upward through a pipe of molten lamproite. When the pressure dropped, the eruption scattered diamonds across the crater’s surface. Today, the park’s 37.5-acre plowed field is a treasure hunter’s playground, with diamonds waiting just beneath the soil.
How to Hunt for Diamonds Like a Pro
Digging for diamonds isn’t just about luck—it’s about strategy. The park promotes three main methods to find your sparkling prize: surface searching, dry sifting, and wet sifting. Each technique has its own charm, and you don’t need to be a geologist to get started. Ready to roll up your sleeves and give it a try?
Surface Searching: Eyes on the Prize
Surface searching is the simplest method. You stroll through the plowed field, scanning for the metallic luster of diamonds. Since diamonds don’t stick to dirt, they often gleam in the sunlight, catching your eye like a tiny beacon. It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack, but way more exciting when that needle could be worth a fortune!
Tips for Surface Searching
Visit after a rain when the soil is washed away, exposing gems. Walk slowly, bend low, and look for smooth, rounded stones in white, brown, or yellow. Bring sunglasses to cut glare and a small rake to gently turn the soil. Patience is key—think of it as a meditative treasure hunt.
Dry Sifting: Shake It Up
Dry sifting involves scooping dirt into a mesh screen and shaking it to separate gravel from finer soil. You then inspect the remaining pebbles for anything shiny. It’s a bit like panning for gold, but instead of a river, you’re working with Arkansas dirt. This method works best when the soil is dry, so check the weather before you go.
Wet Sifting: Get Your Hands Dirty
For the most thorough hunters, wet sifting is the way to go. You dig a bucket of dirt, take it to one of the park’s washing pavilions, and rinse it through screens to sort gravel by size. The heavier materials—like diamonds—sink to the bottom. It’s messy, but it’s the most productive method, like panning for treasure in a muddy stream.
Using a Saruca for Precision
Serious prospectors use a saruca, a bowl-shaped screen that concentrates heavier materials like diamonds in the center. It’s like a gold pan for gem hunters. Rent one at the park or bring your own, and watch those tiny treasures gather in the middle as you sift.
Notable Finds That Sparkle in History
The park’s history is studded with jaw-dropping discoveries. In 1924, the 40.23-carat Uncle Sam diamond—the largest ever found in the U.S.—was unearthed here. In 1990, the 3.03-carat Strawn-Wagner Diamond, graded as perfect, made headlines. More recently, in 2025, Micherre Fox found a 2.3-carat white diamond for her engagement ring after three weeks of digging. These stories fuel the dreams of every visitor who steps onto the field.
The Fox-Ballou Diamond: A Modern Treasure
Micherre Fox’s story is the stuff of legend. She camped at the park for weeks, battling chiggers and worn-out boots, to find her 2.3-carat gem. Named the Fox-Ballou Diamond, it’s valued between $10,000 and $50,000. Her persistence proves that with grit and a little luck, anyone can strike it rich.
Beyond Diamonds: Other Gems to Discover
Diamonds may be the star, but the park is a treasure trove of other minerals. Amethyst, garnet, jasper, agate, and quartz are scattered throughout the field, especially in areas like Canary Hill, where amethyst veins run deep. It’s like wandering through a natural jewelry store where everything is free for the taking!
Identifying Your Finds
Not sure if that shiny rock is a diamond or quartz? The park’s Diamond Discovery Center has you covered. Staff offer free identification and certification, so you can confirm your treasures. Informational panels at the washing pavilions also help you spot gems, making it easy to become a mini-geologist.
Planning Your Visit to Crater of Diamonds
Ready to dig? The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., except for major holidays like New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Admission is $15 for adults and $7 for kids, a small price for a shot at a priceless gem. You can bring your own tools or rent shovels, buckets, and screens on-site. Just leave the motorized equipment at home—it’s all about old-school prospecting here.
Best Times to Visit
Spring and fall offer mild weather, perfect for digging without melting in the Arkansas heat. Rainy days are ideal, as water exposes diamonds on the surface. Summer visitors can cool off at the seasonal Diamond Springs Water Park, a fun bonus for families.
Pro Tip: Book Early
The park can get busy, especially on weekends. Buy tickets online to secure your spot, and arrive early to snag prime digging areas. If you’re renting tools, get there at opening to ensure availability, as equipment often sells out on busy days.
Exploring Beyond the Diamond Field
There’s more to Crater of Diamonds than just digging. The park offers hiking trails, like the 1.2-mile Prospector Trail and Little Missouri River Trail, where you can soak in the scenery. A wildlife observation blind is perfect for spotting local critters, and the campground’s 47 Class AAA sites make it easy to extend your stay. It’s like a nature lover’s playground with a side of treasure hunting!
Family-Friendly Fun
Kids love the park’s hands-on vibe. Let them splash in the Little Missouri River or enjoy the water park’s slides. The visitor center’s exhibits, including real uncut diamonds, spark curiosity, while ranger-led diamond mining demos teach the whole family how to hunt like pros.
Where to Stay and Eat
Murfreesboro offers cozy lodging options like the Diamond Oaks Inn, just a mile from the park, with free digging equipment for guests. For dining, local spots like the Feed Bin Cafe serve hearty Southern meals to fuel your adventure. If you’re camping, pack a cooler with snacks, as picnic tables are plentiful in the diamond search area.
Getting There
The park is a two-hour drive from Little Rock via Interstate 30, or an hour from Texarkana Regional Airport. Stick to paved roads like Arkansas Highway 301 to avoid bumpy gravel routes. If you’re traveling by train, Amtrak’s Hope station is 50 minutes away, with ride-share options to the park.
Tips for a Successful Diamond Hunt
Want to boost your chances of finding a diamond? Here are some insider tips:
- Visit after rain to spot surface diamonds.
- Focus on low-lying areas like the East Drain, where heavy gems collect.
- Use a saruca for wet sifting to concentrate heavier materials.
- Bring sunscreen, water, and sturdy boots—digging is dusty work!
- Take up to five gallons of sifted gravel home to search later.
It’s like preparing for a treasure hunt with a few smart tricks up your sleeve.
The Thrill of the Hunt
There’s something exhilarating about sifting through dirt, knowing any scoop could reveal a diamond. Even if you don’t find a gem, the experience feels like a real-life Indiana Jones adventure. The park’s “finders, keepers” policy means every shiny stone you uncover is yours, no strings attached. How often do you get to play prospector for a day?
Why Crater of Diamonds Stands Out
Unlike commercial mines, Crater of Diamonds is open to everyone—no special skills or licenses required. The park’s unique geology, combined with its accessible setup, makes it a global draw. From the 40-carat Uncle Sam to Micherre Fox’s recent find, the park’s history of big discoveries keeps the dream alive. It’s a place where anyone can feel like a treasure hunter.
Conclusion
Crater of Diamonds State Park isn’t just a destination—it’s an adventure that blends history, geology, and the thrill of discovery. Whether you’re digging for diamonds, hiking scenic trails, or cooling off at the water park, this Arkansas gem offers something for everyone. With a bit of patience and a lot of enthusiasm, you might just walk away with a sparkling souvenir. So, grab a shovel, pack your sense of wonder, and head to Murfreesboro for a trip you’ll never forget. Who knows? Your next scoop could uncover a diamond that changes everything!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I really keep any diamonds I find at Crater of Diamonds?
Absolutely! The park’s “finders, keepers” policy means any diamond or gem you find is yours to keep, no questions asked.
2. What’s the best time of year to visit Crater of Diamonds?
Spring and fall offer mild weather, but rainy days are ideal for surface searching since water exposes diamonds. Summer is great if you want to enjoy the water park.
3. Do I need my own tools to dig for diamonds?
You can bring your own shovels, buckets, and screens, or rent them at the park for a small fee. Motorized equipment isn’t allowed, so keep it manual.
4. How likely am I to find a diamond?
On average, one to two diamonds are found daily, with about 600 registered each year. While most are small (around 0.25 carats), persistence and the right technique boost your chances.
5. Are there activities at the park besides diamond hunting?
Yes! You can hike trails, visit the Diamond Discovery Center, camp, or cool off at the seasonal Diamond Springs Water Park. There’s something for everyone!