“GMA” Takes You Inside Arkansas’ Famous Crater of Diamonds State Park
Nestled in the beautiful state of Arkansas lies a hidden gem that has been attracting visitors from all over the world for decades – the Crater of Diamonds State Park. This unique park is not only a top attraction in Arkansas, but it is also the only diamond-producing site in the world that is open to the public. And now, thanks to “Good Morning America”, we have the opportunity to take you inside this one-of-a-kind park and discover its wonders.
Located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, the Crater of Diamonds State Park spans over 37 acres and is home to a 95-million-year-old volcanic crater. This crater is the source of the park’s most precious treasure – diamonds. In fact, over 75,000 diamonds have been found in the park since it opened in 1972, making it a dream destination for treasure hunters and diamond enthusiasts.
But what makes this park truly special is that visitors have the chance to find their very own diamonds. Yes, you read that right. The park is open to the public for diamond hunting, and whatever you find, you get to keep. This unique experience has attracted people from all walks of life, from families looking for a fun day out to serious diamond hunters hoping to strike it rich.
The process of diamond hunting is simple. Visitors can rent equipment such as shovels, buckets, and screens from the park’s Diamond Discovery Center or bring their own. Then, they can head to the designated diamond search area, which is a 37-acre plowed field, and start their search. And the best part? No experience is necessary. The park provides free diamond mining demonstrations and helpful tips to ensure that everyone has a fair chance of finding a diamond.
But diamonds are not the only treasures that can be found at the Crater of Diamonds State Park. The park is also home to other precious gemstones such as amethyst, garnet, and quartz. And if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a rare gemstone like the 8.52-carat Esperanza Diamond, the largest diamond ever found in the park.
Aside from diamond hunting, the park offers a variety of other activities for visitors to enjoy. Nature lovers can explore the park’s beautiful hiking trails and spot wildlife such as deer, rabbits, and even armadillos. The park also has a water park, a campground, and a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and learn more about the park’s history and geology.
But the Crater of Diamonds State Park is not just about diamonds and activities. It is also a place of rich history and culture. The park is situated on the land of the Quapaw tribe, who have inhabited the area for thousands of years. Visitors can learn about the tribe’s traditions and way of life at the park’s Native American exhibit.
The park’s history also includes stories of famous diamond finds, such as the Uncle Sam Diamond, a 40.23-carat white diamond discovered in 1924. This diamond is now on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. And in 1990, Shirley Strawn, a retired schoolteacher, found a 3.03-carat diamond at the park, which she named the Strawn-Wagner Diamond. This diamond is considered one of the most perfect diamonds ever found, and it is now on display at the park’s Diamond Discovery Center.
The Crater of Diamonds State Park has been featured in numerous media outlets, including “Good Morning America”, which recently took viewers on a virtual tour of the park. The segment highlighted the park’s unique features and showcased some of the diamonds that have been found by visitors. It also gave viewers a glimpse into the park’s beautiful landscape and the fun activities it has to offer.
The park’s popularity has only grown since its appearance on “Good Morning America”, and it continues to attract visitors from all over the world. And with the park’s recent expansion, which includes a new visitor center and a larger diamond search area, the possibilities of finding a diamond are even greater.
So, whether you’re a diamond enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique and exciting experience, the Crater of Diamonds State Park is a must-visit destination. It’s a place where you can make unforgettable memories, learn about the earth’s natural wonders, and maybe
