Murfreesboro, Arkansas: Crater of Diamonds State Park

This was hard work. You need a strong back, and a regular shovel (def not a spade)! The dirt is hard, need to dig at least a foot deep. Don't forget a wagon; buckets of dirt and gravel are very heavy. You can take your dog on a leash. We stayed at Queen of Diamonds Inn -- very clean and comfortable. There is a place across the street that will explain the mining process and rent everything you need for only $30. Very helpful and kind.

They have items to rent to help with mining, however, bring sunscreen, hats, etc as you are out in a large plowed field. We brought a wagon, drinks, tools etc and I'm very thankful we did so. There is very little to do in their little town. Mexican restaurant not far away was fairly good and friendly.

We visited in April, cloudy morning and sunny 70 degrees in the afternoon. It had rained hard the day before so the fields were pretty muddy. There were more than a few people there for a Wednesday, and the preferred method of searching was by digging and wet screening. I didn't find a diamond, but I did find a lot of Jasper and some volcanic stones.

Bring your own tools, food and whatever will make you comfortable as you trip over the furrows, rocks, holes and mud. Get dirty and have fun.

Stopped here, but it was cold and windy. Be sure to bring mud boots, a bucket, small shovel and gloves. Would go back if I had those items.

Mining for diamonds is not what I'd expected. It turns out that the Crater is not an actual crater but an open field of very hard dirt that is plowed up every few months. I didn't have any luck, found nothing of value after digging in 103 degrees heat for two hours. However, there is a water park on site to enjoy after getting down and dirty.