The Only Public Diamond Mine in America
Crater of Diamonds State Park is a place where you can literally dig up treasure. It’s a real diamond mine, and the only one in the US that’s open to the public. Here are 10 slides on this amazing place worth visiting.
The World’s Only Public Diamond Mine
Where else can you walk into a diamond mine, dig around, and keep anything you find? Nowhere but here. The 37.5-acre field sees over 600 diamonds unearthed by visitors every year.
Whether it’s a tiny gem or a record-breaking stone, every discovery is yours to keep.
Home to America’s Biggest Diamond
The Uncle Sam diamond, a whopping 40.23 carats, was found here in 1924 and still holds the record for the largest diamond ever found in the U.S. And since 1972, more than 35,000 diamonds have been found by lucky visitors.
Diamonds in Three Stunning Colors
Diamonds here don’t just sparkle. They come in three unique shades. White diamonds are the most common, making up about 60% of finds. Brown diamonds are next, at around 20%, and the bright yellow ones? They’re less frequent but oh-so-beautiful. Finding one is like hitting the jackpot.
Built on Ancient Volcanic History
The park isn’t just a diamond field; it’s a window into the Earth’s past. It sits atop an ancient volcanic pipe, created over 100 million years ago by an eruption that brought diamonds from deep within the Earth’s mantle. Today, you’re searching for the remnants of this prehistoric explosion.
Over 70,000 Diamonds Discovered Since 1906
People have been digging here for over a century, and the numbers don’t lie. Over 70,000 diamonds have been found since 1906. On average, two diamonds are discovered every single day.
From small stones to showstoppers like the Amarillo Starlight (16.37 carats), the park keeps delivering.
The Strawn-Wagner Diamond
Not all diamonds are created equal, and the Strawn-Wagner Diamond proves it. Discovered in 1990, this gem weighed 3.03 carats before being cut to 1.09 carats. It was graded as a perfect Triple Zero, meaning it’s flawless, has ideal proportions, and is the highest color grade possible.
It’s also the surface of a volcanic crater
The park’s 37.5-acre search field might just look like dirt, but it’s actually the eroded surface of a volcanic crater. Staff regularly plow the field to bring hidden gems closer to the surface.
Visitors also find semi-precious stones like amethyst, garnet, and jasper alongside their diamond discoveries.
Arkansas Made It a State Park in 1972
Crater of Diamonds became a state park in 1972 after Arkansas purchased the land from private owners. Before that, it was a tourist attraction, but today it’s a beloved public space where anyone can experience the thrill of diamond hunting. It’s part history, part adventure, and all fun.
Tools Allowed—But Leave the Motors at Home
If you’re heading to the park, bring your own tools or rent them on-site. Just remember, motorized or battery-powered tools aren’t allowed. As a result, literally everyone has a chance to find diamonds here, kids included.
More Than Just Diamonds
Even if you don’t strike it rich, there’s plenty to enjoy here. The visitor center is packed with exhibits on geology and diamond mining, and kids love the Diamond Springs aquatic playground.
For those who want to stay longer, the park has 47 Class AAA campsites near the Little Missouri River, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
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