Introduction
Few places in the world let you dig for real diamonds and keep what you find. Crater of Diamonds Park in Arkansas is one of them. Nestled in Murfreesboro, this state park attracts thousands of visitors each year who come with one goal—strike it lucky and uncover a sparkling diamond.
But what makes Crater of Diamonds State Park so unique? How do you maximize your chances of finding gems? And what should you know before planning your trip? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything from the park’s fascinating history to practical tips for diamond hunting.
About Crater of Diamonds Park
Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only publicly accessible diamond-bearing site in the world where you can search for gems in their natural volcanic source.
- Location: Murfreesboro, Arkansas
- Size: Over 37 acres of plowed search field
- Claim to Fame: Finders-keepers rule—you keep whatever you dig up!
- Gems Found: Diamonds, amethyst, garnet, quartz, and jasper
The park sits atop an ancient volcanic crater, which explains the abundance of gemstones buried beneath the soil.
A Brief History of the Park
- Diamonds were first discovered in the area in 1906 by farmer John Huddleston.
- After private mining attempts failed, the land became a tourist attraction.
- In 1972, it officially became Crater of Diamonds State Park.
- Today, it welcomes more than 150,000 visitors annually, with hundreds of diamonds found each year.
The most famous find? The Uncle Sam Diamond—a whopping 40.23-carat diamond discovered in 1924, the largest ever found in the U.S.
What Kind of Diamonds Can You Find?
Not all diamonds look like sparkling gemstones at first glance. At Crater of Diamonds Park, you may find three primary colors:
- White Diamonds – Transparent and icy in appearance.
- Brown Diamonds – Ranging from champagne to deep cognac tones.
- Yellow Diamonds – Sunny hues caused by nitrogen presence.
Apart from diamonds, visitors often uncover other fascinating stones, including:
- Amethyst
- Jasper
- Garnet
- Quartz crystals
How to Hunt for Diamonds at Crater of Diamonds Park
Searching for diamonds is both exciting and challenging. Here are the most common methods:
1. Surface Searching
- After rainfall, diamonds often rise to the surface.
- Best for beginners and casual visitors.
2. Dry Sifting
- Use a screen to sift through dry soil.
- Helps separate larger rocks and potential gems.
3. Wet Sifting
- Dirt is washed through mesh screens using water.
- This method makes diamonds easier to spot.
4. Digging Deep
- Experienced gem hunters bring shovels to dig deeper layers.
- More labor-intensive but can yield hidden treasures.
👉 Pro Tip: Diamonds are often found near gravel layers and volcanic rock.
Tools You’ll Need
The park allows you to bring your own equipment or rent from their facility. Recommended tools include:
- Shovels and spades
- Buckets
- Screens for sifting
- Small hand trowels
- Gloves
- Water containers for wet sifting
Don’t want to carry heavy tools? The park’s Diamond Discovery Center rents equipment at reasonable rates.
Best Time to Visit Crater of Diamonds Park
Timing can make all the difference when gem hunting.
- After Rain: Diamonds become more visible when rain washes away the topsoil.
- Spring & Fall: Mild weather makes digging more comfortable.
- Early Morning: Avoid crowds and maximize your search time.
Visitor Information
- Hours: Open year-round except major holidays.
- Admission Fee: Affordable daily entrance fee (check the official website for updated pricing).
- Facilities: Picnic areas, gift shops, Diamond Discovery Center, and campsites.
- Accommodation: Camp within the park or stay at nearby Murfreesboro hotels and cabins.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Finding Gems
Finding a diamond at Crater of Diamonds Park isn’t guaranteed, but these tips boost your chances:
- Check Recent Weather: Go after rainfall when diamonds are easier to spot.
- Be Patient: Searching takes time and persistence.
- Learn Diamond Traits: Diamonds are usually shiny, rounded, and don’t sparkle like cut gems.
- Use the Right Tools: Wet sifting increases visibility of diamonds.
- Ask Rangers for Guidance: Staff can point you to productive search areas.
Famous Diamonds Found at the Park
Over the years, visitors have unearthed some incredible gems:
- Uncle Sam Diamond (1924): 40.23 carats
- Amarillo Starlight (1975): 16.37 carats
- Strawn-Wagner Diamond (1990): 3.09 carats, graded as “flawless” after cutting
- Esperanza Diamond (2015): 8.52 carats
These finds prove that anyone—beginner or expert—can strike gold (or diamonds) here.
Other Things to Do at Crater of Diamonds Park
Even if you don’t find a diamond, the park offers plenty to enjoy:
- Visitor Center: Learn about geology and gemology.
- Walking Trails: Explore scenic Arkansas landscapes.
- Water Playground: Perfect for families with kids.
- Camping & Picnicking: Stay overnight under the stars.
Safety Tips for Visitors
- Wear sturdy shoes—digging areas can be muddy.
- Bring sunscreen, hats, and water for hot days.
- Watch children closely in digging zones.
- Take breaks—searching can be physically demanding.
FAQs About Crater of Diamonds Park
Q1: Do you really get to keep what you find?
Yes! The park follows a finders-keepers rule—any diamonds or gemstones you discover are yours to keep.
Q2: How many diamonds are found each year?
On average, visitors find 600+ diamonds annually at the park.
Q3: Do you need special skills to find diamonds?
Not at all. Beginners often succeed with surface searches, especially after rain.
Q4: Can you bring your own equipment?
Yes, but only non-motorized tools like shovels, buckets, and screens are allowed.
Q5: What happens if I find a large diamond?
You can keep it, register it with the park, and even have it appraised.
Conclusion
Crater of Diamonds Park is a one-of-a-kind destination where history, geology, and adventure intersect. Whether you walk away with a precious diamond or just the memory of digging in a volcanic field, the experience is unforgettable.
For travelers seeking adventure and a chance at real treasure, this Arkansas gem offers excitement unlike any other state park. Pack your tools, bring your curiosity, and you might just leave with a sparkling souvenir from the Earth itself.
