Crater of Diamonds State Park is the only diamond-mining site in the world open to the public, making it one of Arkansas’s most unique attractions. Spread across 911 acres in Murfreesboro, Pike County, this state park lets visitors search a 37-acre plowed field — the eroded surface of an ancient volcanic crater — and keep whatever gems they find. Since the site became a state park, visitors have unearthed over 35,000 diamonds, including stones of remarkable size and clarity.

The diamond search area is the main draw, but it’s far from the only thing to do here. The park offers hiking trails through the Ozark foothills, including a half-mile trail along the Little Missouri River. The Diamond Discovery Center provides exhibits on local geology and diamond identification, and park staff will help you identify any stones you find. Bring your own tools or rent screens and shovels on-site.

Spring and fall offer the best conditions for searching — mild temperatures and recent rains help expose gems on the surface. Summer visits mean longer daylight hours but expect Arkansas heat and humidity. After a good rain is prime time, as water washes away topsoil and reveals what’s underneath.

With a 4.4-star rating across nearly 8,000 reviews, visitors consistently praise the one-of-a-kind experience and family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you walk away with a diamond or just a great story, Crater of Diamonds delivers something no other state park can — the genuine thrill of the hunt.

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