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Most Arkansans have heard about our unique state park where you can dig for diamonds, but did you know that you can also camp at Crater of Diamonds State Park? This park has so much to offer, you really need to spend the weekend to enjoy it all. My family and three other families did just that recently, and here are a few things that I learned.
- Crater of Diamonds State Park is the world’s eighth largest diamond-bearing volcanic crater and the only one open to the public. However, you need to set proper expectations. My children were convinced that they were going to strike it rich strolling around the park picking up all the diamonds just lying around everywhere. This is not the case. However, on average, more than 600 diamonds are found each year.
- Besides diamonds, you can find a variety of pretty stones like quartz, amethyst and jasper. Over 40 different rocks and minerals occur naturally at the park.
- You can bring your own diamond search tools like shovels, buckets and screens, or you can rent tools at the Diamond Discovery Center.
- After you are done digging, you can take your finds to the Diamond Discovery Center for free identification and diamond certification.
- The park offers 47 Class AAA campsites with 50-amp, water and sewer, and five tent sites with water only. Free public wireless internet access is provided around both the campground and bathhouse facilities.
- The park offers guided programs and activities throughout the year covering a variety of subjects like nature, geology, diamond searching methods and history. There is also a curriculum available for schools.
- Crater of Diamonds State Park has two walking trails. The River Trail is 1.2 miles and winds through the woods on a paved, accessible path to the scenic Little Missouri River. This trail is right in the middle of the campground and is perfect for kids on scooters.
- The Prospector Trail is also 1.2 miles and offers a firsthand view of the park’s unique geological features. This trail requires an admission fee to the mine field.
- Bring sidewalk chalk and scooters (see #4) to entertain the kids when not hiking, digging for diamonds or…
- Playing at the water park. Yes, this state park includes a water park! (open seasonally) This was the highlight of the weekend.
As Arkansans, we are so fortunate to have so many interesting Arkansas State Parks across the state, and Crater of Diamonds State Park is no exception. Camping, hiking, water play and diamond mining make for a fun and unique family getaway. Crater of Diamonds State Park
209 State Park Road
Murfreesboro, AR 71958
Email: craterofdiamonds@arkansas.com
Phone: (870) 285-3113
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