Crater of Diamonds State Park offers unique camping experiences 18 miles from Washington, Arkansas. The park sits at an elevation of 315 feet and receives about 51 inches of rainfall annually, creating seasonal changes in diamond hunting conditions. The 37.5-acre diamond search field is regularly plowed to bring new diamonds to the surface, with more than 33,000 diamonds discovered by visitors since 1972.
What to do
Diamond hunting techniques: At Crater of Diamonds State Park, successful diamond searches require proper methods. "The best time to take a trip to the Arkansas diamond fields is after a heavy rainstorm, but keep in mind that you will get muddy during your visit so always wear the appropriate clothes and shoes while out in the search area," advises Prospector J.
Swimming options: For cooling off after diamond hunting, Lake Greeson offers clean water just 8 miles from Murfreesboro. "Nice swimming creek nearby," notes Larry about the facilities near Crater of Diamonds State Park campground.
Exploring trails: DeGray Lake Resort State Park features multiple hiking trails with QR codes for educational content. "Each trail had an information board where you can scan a QR code to know more about the trail, what made it unique and what to look out for while you are out there," explains a camper identified as P.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Parker Creek Lake Greeson Campground offers large camping areas with minimal crowding. "The sites were HUGE and there were very few other campers. We stayed in site 14 right across from the lake," reports Jo E., who was impressed with the campground's cleanliness and maintenance.
Updated facilities: Many campgrounds have been renovated in recent years. "The bathrooms were clean and looked like they had just been updated," notes Jo E. about Parker Creek Lake Greeson Campground.
Affordable glamping: Daisy State Park Campground provides glamping alternatives near Washington, Arkansas with yurts situated on Lake Greeson. "The walk in tent sites are some of the best in the Midwest. The sites are located right on the lake. The sites have a framed out, level area big enough for an 8 person tent," describes Chad K.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The diamond field has minimal shade, making some seasons better than others. "Winter, Spring and Fall are the best seasons to visit. The diamond field is a large, unshaded field," advises Patricia C.
Search area conditions: The ground composition affects diamond hunting success. "The Crater of Diamonds plows their fields, but the implements only turn over the top two feet of dirt repeatedly. Diamonds are found in gravel deposits within the mind field, but they will be below two feet anywhere on the search field," explains Prospector J.
Campsite selection: Alpine Ridge - De Gray Lake offers waterfront sites with varying amenities. "We camped in #35 right next to the lake and enjoyed the lovely view," shares Brent & Lisa A., who also praised the "super clean" bath house with "good and hot" showers with "plenty of pressure."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Families can enjoy activities beyond diamond hunting. "Took my littles and we had fun panning for a hot minute but the trails were good, the playground was good and the facilities were very clean! Something way out of our normal!" shares Becca H.
Weather preparation: Murfeesboro RV Park offers electric hookups for tent campers to manage temperature extremes. "I'm in van and they allowed me to van camp. Tent sites have electric. So bought an extension cord and took full advantage for a small heater," explains Jeanne A.
Educational opportunities: The geology and history of the diamond field creates learning moments for children. "The Crater of Diamonds State Park is an exciting place full of rich history and, of course, finding lots of rough diamonds," notes Prospector J., who adds that visitors can "keep any diamonds that they find."
Tips from RVers
Hookup details: Most RV sites near Washington include water and electric, with some offering full hookups. "All camper sites have 50A, 30A & 15A service along with water, with really good water pressure," describes Archie S. about Parker Creek Lake Greeson Campground.
Site leveling concerns: Some campsites require adjustment for RVs. "Once unhooked, I had to angle the truck in to overlap the tongue of the TT. Ended up with a 3 inch riser to level the trailer side to side," explains Wayne J. about site 30 at Crater of Diamonds State Park Campground.
Dump station access: Facilities for waste disposal are available at most parks. "There are two spots at the dump station and a clean water station as well," notes Archie S. about the convenient services at Parker Creek Lake Greeson Campground.
