Best Campgrounds near Murfreesboro, AR
Murfreesboro, Arkansas features a concentration of campgrounds centered around its most distinctive attraction, Crater of Diamonds State Park. This unique destination offers camping adjacent to the world's only public diamond mine where visitors can search for and keep any diamonds they find. The park campground provides 47 shaded RV sites with full hookups and five walk-in tent sites, all within walking distance of the diamond field. Lake Greeson, just north of town, supports multiple camping areas including Daisy State Park, Cowhide Cove, and several Army Corps of Engineers sites like Parker Creek. Most campgrounds in the region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with many offering lakefront sites and boat access.
Reservations are essential for popular sites, especially at Crater of Diamonds which fills quickly during peak seasons. As one camper noted, "Books up fast so plan ahead." Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, with campers at Daisy State Park recommending "fans or some way of staying cool." Most campgrounds operate year-round, though facilities and water access may be limited during winter months. Cell service varies throughout the area, with spotty coverage at more remote locations. Campgrounds managed by the Corps of Engineers often provide more affordable options, with some offering discounts for America the Beautiful Pass holders, reducing rates to as little as $4 per night.
The diamond mining experience defines many visitors' stays in the area. The 37-acre search field is regularly plowed to expose new material, with approximately 600 diamonds found annually. According to experienced visitors, "The best time to take a trip to the Arkansas diamond fields is after a heavy rainstorm," though this means preparing for muddy conditions. Campground facilities are generally well-maintained, with clean bathhouses and modern amenities. Shaded sites are particularly valuable during summer months when temperatures climb. Lakeside campgrounds offer fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities, with Lake Greeson providing a quieter alternative to more crowded recreation areas. The town of Murfreesboro itself is described by campers as "cute" with basic services available for resupply.
