For $15, anyone can dig up diamonds in this Arkansas state park

In the heart of southwest Arkansas lies a truly one-of-a-kind diamond hunting experience. At Crater of Diamonds State Park, for the cost of a modest movie ticket, anyone can embark on a quest to unearth real diamonds—and the best part? Whatever you find is yours to keep. Spanning 37 acres near Murfreesboro, this extraordinary site is situated atop an ancient volcanic pipe that erupted approximately 100 million years ago, bringing diamonds from deep within the Earth's mantle to the surface. These precious stones now lie waiting in the soil for those equipped with nothing more than a garden trowel and a bit of determination. The park has a rich history, with numerous commercial mining attempts dating back to 1906, when John Wesley Huddleston discovered the first diamonds. Despite efforts by various companies to profit from the land, a lack of significant diamond concentration compared to other mines led to their failure. Rather than leasing the land to mining corporations, the state decided to preserve it as the only diamond-producing site globally where the general public can search for gems in their natural volcanic environment. Since its establishment as a state park in 1972, visitors have uncovered over 35,000 diamonds. The park operates under a straightforward rule: everything you find is yours, with no hidden fees or revenue sharing. However, the search for diamonds is not as straightforward as it may seem. The designated digging area consists of regularly plowed dirt that park staff cultivates to reveal new treasures. There are no special licenses required, and visitors can return as often as they wish. While motor-driven tools are prohibited and all holes must be filled before leaving, the park encourages a family-friendly atmosphere. Travel blogger Liz Mays, who runs the blog 'Get Lost in the USA,' recently visited the park and observed a diverse crowd of families, enthusiasts, and seasoned diggers. Some guests casually scanned the ground, while others arrived with wagons and wheelbarrows to transport their digging gear. The park offers basic tools for rent on a first-come, first-served basis, but many choose to bring their own supplies, including shovels, buckets, and sifting screens, ready to embark on their diamond discovery adventure.