Crater of Diamonds State Park
Murfreesboro, AR
A plowed field on an old volcanic pipe where anyone can dig for diamonds and keep what they find. Go after a rain, when stones are easier to spot on the surface; rent or bring a sieve.
Crater of Diamonds State Park has a plowed field of about 15 ha (37 acres) on an eroded lamproite volcanic pipe from the Early Cretaceous. Here visitors can search for diamonds themselves and keep whatever they find. The first diamonds turned up in 1906, and in 1924 the "Uncle Sam" came to light at 40.23 carats, the largest diamond ever found in the United States. Since the park was established in 1972, more than 37,000 diamonds have been found, mostly white, brown, or yellow.
You can bring your own tools or rent equipment such as shovels and screens; motorized or battery-powered tools are prohibited. The Diamond Discovery Center identifies finds free of charge. The park has 47 full-hookup RV sites and tent sites. Summers are hot, so bring water and sun protection; a few hours are enough for a first try.
- Nearest town
- Murfreesboro, AR
- Category
- Roadside oddities
- GPS
- 34.0333, -93.6717
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, September and November. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- Crater of Diamonds CampgroundMotorhome stopover0 mi from Crater of Diamonds State ParkMotorhomes
- Motorhome stopoverMotorhome stopover2 mi from Crater of Diamonds State ParkMotorhomes
- Daisy State ParkCampsite14 mi from Crater of Diamonds State Park
- Motorhome stopoverMotorhome stopover18 mi from Crater of Diamonds State ParkMotorhomes
All campsites in Arkansas · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Crater of Diamonds State Park?
Crater of Diamonds State Park is in Murfreesboro, AR, at GPS 34.0333, -93.6717. It is about 36 mi from Mount Ida.
Can you camp near Crater of Diamonds State Park?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Crater of Diamonds Campground, about 0 mi away; within 25 mi there are 4 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Crater of Diamonds State Park?
Crater of Diamonds State Park is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Arkansas crystals and diamonds.
What is there to see near Crater of Diamonds State Park?
Places worth a stop nearby: Historic Washington State Park (18 mi), Garvan Woodland Gardens (45 mi), Bathhouse Row (48 mi) and Lake Ouachita State Park (49 mi).
When is the best time to visit Crater of Diamonds State Park?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)