Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground: Digging for Adventure in Arkansas

For Arkansans seeking a truly unique outdoor adventure, look no further than Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground in Murfreesboro. This isn't just any campground; it's part of the world's only public diamond mine where, famously, what you find is yours to keep! Imagine setting up camp just a stone's throw from a plowed 37-acre field where real diamonds, along with a variety of other rocks and minerals, are waiting to be unearthed. It's a place where history, geology, and the thrill of discovery converge, offering an unparalleled experience for families, avid campers, and amateur geologists alike.

Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground offers more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent. It provides a gateway to an unforgettable adventure, combining comfortable camping amenities with the excitement of treasure hunting. Beyond the diamond field, the park itself is a hub of outdoor activities, nestled in a beautiful natural setting near the Little Missouri River. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about this iconic Arkansas destination, from its precise location and accessibility to the wide array of services and features that make it a must-visit for locals and visitors exploring the Natural State.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, understanding the campground's offerings will help you prepare for an enjoyable and potentially rewarding trip. We'll explore the types of campsites available, the facilities that ensure a comfortable stay, and the unique activities that draw people from all over the world to this extraordinary Arkansas State Park. Get ready to discover why Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground holds a special place in the hearts of many Arkansans.

Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground is situated at 209 State Park Road, Murfreesboro, AR 71958, USA. This location places it approximately two miles southeast of the town of Murfreesboro, off Arkansas Highway 301. Murfreesboro itself is a small, welcoming town in Pike County, offering a glimpse into authentic rural Arkansas life.

Accessibility to the park is generally straightforward. For those traveling from across Arkansas or neighboring states, major highways like US-278 and AR-19 provide routes leading to Murfreesboro. While it's a bit of a drive from the state's larger metropolitan areas like Little Rock (approximately a 2-hour drive) or Fayetteville (around a 4-hour drive), the journey takes you through scenic Arkansas landscapes, setting the stage for the unique natural experience awaiting you.

Within the park, the campground is conveniently located within walking distance of the main diamond search area, the Visitor Center, and the Diamond Discovery Center. This close proximity means campers can easily access the primary attractions without needing to drive. Cell service is generally good in the area, which is helpful for staying connected or navigating. The park also provides public Wi-Fi within the campground, further enhancing connectivity for campers. For those with RVs, the maximum RV length accommodated is up to 60 feet, allowing for a wide range of vehicles to enjoy the facilities. The balance of being in a tranquil natural setting while still being accessible and offering modern conveniences makes it an appealing choice for a wide array of campers.

Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground offers a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all campers, from tent enthusiasts to large RV owners.

Variety of Campsites: The campground features 52 campsites. Out of these, 47 are Class AAA sites equipped with water, 50-amp electric, and sewer hookups, accommodating both RVs and trailers. There are also 5 walk-to tent-only sites (sites 48-52) for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Individual Site Amenities: Each campsite, regardless of type, includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a grill, perfect for outdoor meals and campfire gatherings. Tent sites additionally offer lantern posts.
Modern Bathhouses: The campground provides two modern bathhouses with hot showers and flush toilets, ensuring comfort and convenience for all campers. One of these facilities also includes an area for laundry, which is a valuable service for longer stays.
Dump Station: For RVers, an on-site dump station is available for waste disposal, making it convenient to manage your rig's systems.
Free Wi-Fi: Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi access within the campground, allowing for connectivity, planning, and sharing their diamond-hunting adventures.
Drinking Water & Trash Collection: Essential services like readily available drinking water and trash collection are provided for the convenience and cleanliness of the campground.
Visitor Center and Gift Shop: Located nearby, the park's Visitor Center offers exhibits on geology and diamond mining, while the gift shop provides souvenirs and refreshments.
Diamond Discovery Center: This center is a hub for learning about rocks and minerals found at the park, offering insights into diamond searching techniques. Park staff also provide complimentary identification of any rocks or minerals found by visitors.
Tool Rentals: For those without their own mining equipment, tools like shovels, screen sets, and buckets can be rented at the Diamond Discovery Center, with a refundable deposit.

Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground is packed with unique features and highlights that make it a truly exceptional camping destination in Arkansas.

The Diamond Search Area: The undeniable highlight is the 37.5-acre plowed field – the eroded surface of a volcanic crater – where visitors can search for and keep real diamonds, along with amethyst, garnet, jasper, agate, quartz, and other minerals. This is the only place in the world open to the public for such an activity, providing a legitimate treasure hunt experience.
Historic Diamond Finds: The park boasts a rich history of significant diamond discoveries, including the 40.23-carat "Uncle Sam" diamond, the largest ever found in the U.S. This adds to the allure and excitement of the search.
Tree-Shaded, Spacious Sites: The campground itself is noted for being tree-shaded, offering a comfortable and private setting for campers. The sites are generally spacious, with ample room between spots.
Proximity to Little Missouri River: The campground is next to the Little Missouri River, providing opportunities for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the serene river environment.
Diamond Springs Water Park: During the summer months, the seasonal Diamond Springs Water Park offers a refreshing way to cool off after a day of digging, featuring a 4,166-square-foot wading pool with sprayers, geysers, and a 14-foot slide. (Note: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays seasonally).
Interpretive Programs and Demonstrations: The park offers various interpretive programs, including diamond mining demonstrations, providing educational insights into the park's unique geology and the art of diamond searching.
Hiking Trails: Several walking trails are available, such as the Little Missouri River Trail and the Prospector Trail, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of the park beyond the diamond field.
Wildlife Observation Blind: For nature enthusiasts, a wildlife observation blind provides an opportunity to view local fauna in their natural habitat.
Year-Round Operation: The campground and diamond search area are open year-round (with exceptions for major holidays like New Year's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day), allowing for adventures in all seasons.
ADA Accessible Sites: The park offers ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessible campsites, ensuring inclusivity for all visitors.

While Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground does not typically advertise short-term promotional discounts like a retail business, there are a few aspects to consider regarding potential savings or special offers for campers:

Annual Park Passes: For frequent visitors to Arkansas State Parks, purchasing an annual park pass can offer savings on admission fees to various parks, including the diamond search area, though this usually applies to the entry fee, not necessarily the camping fee directly.
Group Rates/Pavilion Rentals: The park offers group facilities and a group pavilion, which might be suitable for larger gatherings or events, potentially offering a different pricing structure than individual campsites.
Senior and Veteran Discounts: Arkansas State Parks often provide discounts for seniors, veterans, or other specific groups. It's always advisable to inquire about these possibilities when making a reservation.
Off-Season Rates: While the park is open year-round, demand might fluctuate during different seasons. It's worth checking if rates for campsites vary between peak season (e.g., summer) and off-peak times (e.g., winter), which could represent a form of savings.
Good Sam Club Discounts: Some camping resources, like Good Sam Campgrounds, may list discounts for their members at certain parks. It's always a good idea to check with membership programs if you are a part of any.

For the most current information on camping rates, availability, and any potential special offers or discounts, it is highly recommended to contact Crater of Diamonds State Park directly or visit the official Arkansas State Parks website for reservations. Camping site rates typically range from $30 to $45 daily, with pricing for Class AAA sites. Due to the popularity of the park, especially during peak seasons, booking your campsite in advance is strongly advised.

To plan your adventure and make reservations at Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground, you can use the following contact information:

Address: 209 State Park Road, Murfreesboro, AR 71958, USA

Phone: (870) 285-3113

Email: CraterofDiamonds@Arkansas.com

Website: ArkansasStateParks.com/parks/crater-diamonds-state-park (or directly search for Crater of Diamonds State Park on the Arkansas State Parks website for reservations)

It is highly recommended to call the park directly or use their official website for reservations, particularly if you are planning to visit during popular times like weekends, holidays, or summer. Checking availability and booking well in advance will help ensure you secure your desired campsite and make the most of your visit to this unique Arkansas treasure.

For locals in Arkansas, Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an accessible and unique recreational asset right in our backyard. This park offers a distinctive blend of outdoor leisure and educational adventure that is hard to find anywhere else in the world. Its primary appeal, of course, is the thrilling opportunity to search for real diamonds and other gemstones, a prospect that captures the imagination of all ages. For Arkansas families, it provides an engaging and memorable activity that gets everyone outdoors, away from screens, and into a hands-on learning experience about geology and natural history.

Beyond the diamond-hunting, the campground itself is well-maintained and comfortable, offering a range of amenities suitable for various camping styles, from full-hookup RV sites to walk-in tent spots. The presence of modern bathhouses, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi enhances the camping experience, making it convenient and enjoyable. The additional features like the Diamond Springs Water Park during warmer months, along with hiking trails and proximity to the Little Missouri River, ensure there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

For Arkansas residents, having a world-renowned natural attraction like this within the state is a point of pride and an invaluable resource for local tourism and recreation. It offers a relatively affordable and close-to-home vacation option that promises excitement and the potential for a truly sparkling discovery. Whether you're looking for a weekend escape, a unique family outing, or just a chance to connect with Arkansas's geological wonders, Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground is ideally suited for locals to experience a one-of-a-kind adventure right here in the Natural State.