Crater of Diamonds State Park - Murfreesboro, Arkansas
Posted by: 
Max and 99
N 34° 01.956 W 093° 40.324
15S E 437959 N 3765974
The world's only diamond-producing mine open to the public. The slogan here is "Finder's Keeper's!"
Waymark Code: WMC6AZ
Location: Arkansas, United States
Date Posted: 07/31/2011
Views: 14
Crater of Diamonds is located on western Arkansas, near Murfreesboro. This area of Arkansas is south of the Ouachita National Forest. This eroded area from a volcanic pipe 95 million years ago brought the diamonds and other gems to the surface (source: park website)
The field of diamonds is the only diamond producing site in the world where you can keep what you find. Over 25,000 diamonds have been discovered in this 37 acre plowed field.
"Uncle Sam", a white diamond found in 1924 was 40.23 carats uncut. Shovel memorials throughout the park give locations and information on some of the largest diamonds discovered at the park.
Guests can pay to enter the digging field at the park Visitor's Center, which also includes a gift shop and ranger offices. A path from the Visitor's Center leads to the Discovery Center, where guests can rent digging equipment, watch instructional videos, purchase refreshments, and learn about the history of the Crater of Diamonds. A large shaded area is available for eating and resting.
Once you reach the Diamond Field, shade is hard to find. A couple of very small areas are provided for shade (picnic table under a large tree), but digging is not permitted in these areas. Two washing stations do provide shade and benches, and this is where most people sort through the buckets of dirt to find diamonds and other minerals. Instructional signs are posted at the washing stations to remind visitors of the process.
In addition to the main attraction of the Diamond Mine, Crater of Diamonds State Park also offers hundreds of acres of forest for hiking and watching wildlife, a campground, restaurant, and water park.
The cost to dig for diamonds is $7/adults; $4/children 6-12. This is a daily fee, and you can come and go as you please. You are welcome to bring a cooler to the Diamond Field, and can bring in any non-motorized digging equipment. Rental equipment is available at the Discovery Center for a nominal fee plus deposit.
Park hours vary by season so please check the website before your visit.
Price of Admission: 7.00 (listed in local currency)
Weekday Hours: From: 8:00 AM To: 8:00 PM
Weekend Hours: From: 8:00 AM To: 8:00 PM
Roadside Attractions Website: [Web Link]
Location Website: [Web Link]
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