Did you know that over 35,000 diamonds have been discovered at Crater of Diamonds State Park since it became an Arkansas state park in 1972? This extraordinary destination is the only place in the world where the public can search for real diamonds in their original volcanic source—and keep whatever treasures they find. Whether you’re a serious rockhound or just looking for a unique family adventure, this one-of-a-kind park offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else in North America.
Getting There
Located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, Crater of Diamonds State Park is approximately 2 hours southwest of Little Rock. The park’s address is 209 State Park Road, Murfreesboro, AR 71958.
By Air
The closest major airport is Bill and Hillary Clinton National Airport in Little Rock, about 120 miles away. From there, you’ll need to rent a car for the drive to Murfreesboro. Alternatively, Texarkana Regional Airport is about 60 miles away with limited flight options.
By Car
From Little Rock: Take I-30 West to Exit 73 at Arkadelphia, then follow Highway 51 West and Highway 26 West to Murfreesboro. From there, take Highway 301 to the park entrance.
From Texarkana: Take I-30 East to Exit 30 at Hope, then follow Highway 278 to Nashville and Highway 27 North to Murfreesboro.
Ready to Plan Your Diamond Adventure?
Start by booking your flights to Arkansas and securing your rental car for the journey to this unique destination.
Planning Your Journey
Park Hours & Admission
The park facilities (Visitor Center, Gift Shop, and Diamond Discovery Center) are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Diamond Search Area is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The park is closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
| Visitor Type | Diamond Search Area Fee |
| Adults (13+ years) | $15.00 |
| Children (6-12 years) | $7.00 |
| Children under 6 | Free |
What to Bring
Proper preparation will enhance your diamond hunting experience:
- Clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty (mud and dust are guaranteed)
- Digging tools (small shovel, bucket, and sifting screens)
- Gloves to protect your hands
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Plenty of water and snacks
- Kneeling pad for comfort
- Small wagon or cart to transport equipment (optional)
Don’t worry if you forget your equipment—the park offers tool rentals at the Diamond Discovery Center, though availability is first-come, first-served.
When to Visit
Each season offers a different experience at Crater of Diamonds State Park:
Spring (March-May)
Spring brings moderate temperatures and occasional rainfall, which can be ideal for diamond hunting. Rain washes away dirt and can expose diamonds on the surface. The park is less crowded than summer months, giving you more space to search.
Summer (June-August)
Summer is the most popular time to visit, with families on vacation. The Diamond Springs Water Park is open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day, offering a refreshing break from the heat. Be prepared for hot temperatures that can exceed 90°F—bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Fall (September-November)
Fall offers pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, especially after Labor Day. October is particularly nice with comfortable daytime temperatures in the mid-70s and beautiful foliage surrounding the park.
Winter (December-February)
Winter brings the fewest visitors, giving serious diamond hunters more space to search. While temperatures are cooler, they’re still mild compared to northern states. The park plows the field regularly, which can bring new diamonds to the surface.
Pro Tip: Visit after a good rain! Rainfall washes away soil and can reveal diamonds on the surface, making them easier to spot. Some of the largest diamonds have been found after heavy rains.
Getting Around the Park
The park is designed for easy navigation, with most attractions accessible by short walks. The main areas include:
- Visitor Center & Gift Shop – Your first stop for information, souvenirs, and admission tickets
- Diamond Discovery Center – Learn about diamonds and mining techniques before heading to the field
- Diamond Search Area – The 37-acre plowed field where you’ll hunt for diamonds
- Diamond Springs Water Park – A seasonal attraction to cool off after diamond hunting
- Campground – Located in a wooded area with easy access to all park facilities
- Hiking Trails – Several short trails offering scenic views and wildlife observation
The park is wheelchair accessible, with paved paths to major facilities. The diamond search field has varying terrain, but park staff can provide guidance on the most accessible areas for visitors with mobility challenges.
Where to Stay
Camping at the Park
The park offers 47 Class AAA campsites with water, electricity (50 amp), and sewer hookups, plus 5 walk-in tent sites. The campground features modern bathhouses with hot showers and is open year-round. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Nearby Accommodations
If camping isn’t your style, there are several lodging options in and around Murfreesboro:
Murfreesboro
The town offers several bed and breakfasts and cabin rentals within a few minutes’ drive of the park. Samantha’s Timber Inn features uniquely themed log cabin-style rooms.
Nashville, AR
About 20 minutes away, this small town offers additional hotel options and amenities.
Hot Springs
About 1 hour and 15 minutes away, Hot Springs offers numerous hotels, resorts, and attractions if you’re planning a longer Arkansas vacation.
Book Your Stay Near the Diamonds
Secure your accommodations early, especially during peak season when the park attracts visitors from around the world.
Diamond Hunting: What to Expect
The main attraction at Crater of Diamonds State Park is, of course, the opportunity to hunt for real diamonds. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your chances of finding a treasure:
Diamond Hunting Methods
There are three main techniques for finding diamonds:
Surface Searching
Walking the field and looking for diamonds on the surface. Most effective after rain when diamonds may be washed clean and sparkle in the sunlight.
Dry Sifting
Using screens to sift through dry soil, removing larger rocks and dirt to isolate potential diamonds and other gems.
Wet Sifting
The most effective method—involves washing soil through a series of screens at the washing pavilions to separate diamonds by their specific gravity.
What Diamonds Look Like
Diamonds at the park typically appear as small, rounded crystals with a metallic luster. They come in three colors: white, brown, and yellow. Most are about the size of a match head, though larger discoveries happen regularly. Diamonds have a distinctive appearance—they’re often described as looking like a piece of glass or plastic with a distinctive shine.
“I always tell visitors that diamonds have a distinctive shine—like a piece of metal or glass catching the light. Once you’ve seen one, you’ll never forget what they look like.”
Recent Discoveries
Visitors find an average of one to two diamonds daily at the park. Notable recent finds include a 7.46-carat diamond discovered by a visitor from France in January 2024 and a 4.87-carat diamond found in December 2023. The largest diamond ever found in the United States, the 40.23-carat “Uncle Sam,” was discovered on this site in 1924.
Identification Service: If you’re unsure about your finds, park staff at the Diamond Discovery Center can help identify rocks, minerals, and diamonds free of charge.
Other Activities at the Park
While diamond hunting is the main attraction, the park offers several other activities to round out your visit:
Diamond Springs Water Park
Open seasonally from Memorial Day through Labor Day, this mining-themed water playground features a 4,000-square-foot wading pool with water jets, slides, and cascading waterfalls. It’s the perfect way to cool off after a hot day of diamond hunting. The water park has a separate admission fee.
Hiking Trails
The park features three walking trails:
- Prospector Trail (1.2 miles) – A self-guided loop through the wooded area surrounding the diamond field
- Little Missouri River Trail (1.2 miles) – Leads to a scenic river overlook with interpretive signage
- Wildlife Observation Blind Trail (0.3 miles) – A short trail to a wildlife viewing area
Fishing
The Little Missouri River runs along the park’s border, offering opportunities for fishing. The river is stocked with trout from November through March, but fishing is permitted year-round with a valid Arkansas fishing license.
Educational Programs
The park offers various interpretive programs, especially during summer months. These include diamond mining demonstrations, geology talks, and guided hikes. Check at the visitor center for the current schedule during your visit.
Dining Options
Food options at and near the park include:
At the Park
- Kimberlite Cafe – Open seasonally (Memorial Day to Labor Day) from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., serving sandwiches, chicken strips, salads, and snacks
- Picnic Areas – Several picnic sites with tables throughout the park
In Murfreesboro
- Telinga’s Mexican Restaurant – Highly rated local restaurant just 4 minutes from the park
- Feed Bin Cafe – Local favorite serving sandwiches and home-style meals
- Courthouse Soda Fountain – Old-fashioned soda shop with ice cream treats and sandwiches
Visitor Tip: Many diamond hunters bring coolers with lunch and snacks to maximize their time in the diamond field. The park allows food and non-alcoholic beverages in most areas.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
Weather Considerations
Arkansas weather can be unpredictable. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions. The diamond field has minimal shade, so prepare accordingly with sun protection and plenty of water. In winter, temperatures are generally mild but can occasionally drop below freezing.
Accessibility
Most park facilities are wheelchair accessible, including the visitor center, gift shop, and Diamond Discovery Center. The diamond search field has varying terrain, but park staff can advise on the most accessible areas. The first half of the Little Missouri River Trail is paved and accessible.
Pet Policy
Pets are welcome in most areas of the park as long as they remain on a leash under the owner’s control. Pets are not allowed in the Diamond Springs Water Park, gift shop, or bathhouses.
Best Times to Search
- After rainfall when diamonds may be exposed
- Early morning when sunlight hits the field at an angle
- Weekdays when the field is less crowded
- Fall and spring for comfortable temperatures
Challenging Conditions
- Summer heat can be intense (90°F+)
- Field can be muddy after heavy rain
- Extremely dry conditions make digging difficult
- Holiday weekends bring larger crowds
Nearby Attractions
Extend your trip by exploring these attractions near Crater of Diamonds State Park:
Ka-Do-Ha Indian Village
Located just minutes from the park, this archaeological site and museum features Native American artifacts and a “dig-your-own” arrowhead field. Learn more
Lake Greeson
This 7,000-acre lake offers excellent fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Located about 15 minutes from Murfreesboro.
Historic Downtown Murfreesboro
Explore antique shops, local restaurants, and the historic courthouse square in this charming small town.
For those planning a longer Arkansas vacation, Hot Springs National Park is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away, offering historic bathhouses, hiking trails, and thermal springs.
Ready for Your Diamond Adventure?
Crater of Diamonds State Park offers a truly unique experience that combines outdoor adventure, geological education, and the thrill of possibly finding your own precious gemstone. Whether you discover a diamond or not, the memories of this one-of-a-kind adventure will last a lifetime.
With proper planning and the right expectations, your visit to this extraordinary Arkansas state park will be rewarding and enjoyable. So pack your tools, bring your sense of adventure, and prepare for a treasure hunting experience unlike any other in North America!
Start Planning Your Diamond Hunting Adventure Today!
Book your travel, secure your accommodations, and get ready for an unforgettable experience at Crater of Diamonds State Park.
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