Rockhound Locations in Arkansas
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Arkansas. On top of that, we’ve created a resource page to assist with answering all of your gem and mineral collecting questions.
We hope you enjoy your time on our site and come back often because we’re always adding new dig locations and crystal collecting updates. This is a great resource for anyone who loves rockhounding, from beginners to experts alike!
Rockhounding in Arkansas is a great way to discover the state’s diverse geology and fossilized wildlife. The number of potential collecting sites here makes it an excellent location for those interested not only in rocks, but also minerals that can be found within them!
We are here for any questions or concerns that might arise about your adventures in mineral collecting.
Arkansas Rockhound Locations
Arkansas has become a destination for rock hounds and gem collectors for two reasons. The first reason is the Crater of Diamonds State Park. Arkansas is the only state to have an active diamond mine visited by regular people. The second reason is the high-quality Quartz Crystals mined near Mt. Ida and Hot Springs.
Now you know the top two locations to visit in Arkansas if you want to dig for crystals and diamonds but Arkansas has other minerals as well. Keep reading below and you’ll see quite a few additional locations for rock and mineral collecting.
Here’s a list of Arkansas’s best places to visit for rockhounding!
Crater of Diamonds State Park
Crater of Diamonds State Park is located to the south of Murfreesboro, Arkansas. This is a prime spot for junior rock hounds, families, and lifelong rock and mineral collectors.
Keep in mind you’ll need to pay a fee to dig at this location but it won’t break the bank. The mine is accessible to everyone and you’re guaranteed to have a great time looking for one of the most precious gemstones in human history.
Mount Ida
Mount Ida is part of Montgomery County, located in western Arkansas. It’s a favorite spot for Quartz Crystal collectors.
The Wegner Quartz Mine is a well-known mine in the area and I encourage you to visit. You’ll be collecting Quartz Crystal points, Quartz Crystal clusters, and the rare Phantom Quartz. Don’t forget to dress accordingly and bring water and snacks because you’ll be at the mine site all day.
Arkansas Gemstone Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Between Mt. Tabor and Avant | 34.673910, -93.326574 | Wavellite |
| S slope of West Mt. | 34.502605, -93.091804 | Pyrite |
| Lake Catherine | 34.453817, -92.977331 | Fluorite |
| Bauxite, AR | 34.544339, -92.505328 | Bauxite |
| Silver Hollow Bluff | 36.121251, -92.531754 | Zinc |
| Yellville area, Morning Star mine | 36.133190, -92.562370 | Galena, Pyrite, Sphalerite |
| Prairie Creek | 34.036040, -93.681774 | Amethyst, Diopside, Epidote, Garnet, Hematite, Pyrite |
| Lake Gleason | 34.153583, -93.709935 | Antimony, Cinnabar |
| Cove Creek | 34.485665, -92.826173 | Pyrite cubes |
| W of Cove Creek bridge | 34.456831, -92.875162 | Apatite, Monticellite, Magnetite, Biotite |
Crystal Mines in Hot Springs Arkansas
Hot Springs is located just west of central Arkansas. This region isn’t far from Magnet Cove and boasts a vast array of crystal varieties.
You can hope to find Quartz Crystals and Quartz Crystal clusters. Here’s a list of my favorite crystal mines to prospect and collect museum-quality specimens.
Dig for Agates in Arkansas
Cowley’s Ridge is located just east of Clay Cunty in the north of Arkansas. Although the north isn’t the best spot for exploration, if you’re close by you should visit the surrounding hills for rock hunting. My favorite location is Clabber Creek.
Can You Find Gem Quality Diamonds in Arkansas?
Arkansas has a mine located in a state park where individuals can dig for diamonds but the quality is not very high. Most of the diamonds found at this location have good crystal structure by the clarity is most I2-I3.
Rock And Mineral Societies
If you’re dedicated to studying and making good use of rocks and minerals in Arkansas, check out Arkansas’s rocks and minerals societies. These organizations offer unique membership opportunities.
Central Arkansas Gem, Mineral & Geology Society
The Central Arkansas Gem, Mineral, and Geology Society gather every fourth Tuesday of the month. This excludes December, however, for the holidays.
They host several field trips throughout the year and how-to seminars. If you’re hoping to learn and have fun, check out their membership page.
Sweet Surrender Crystal Mine isn’t a society so much as an educational experience. They provide visitors with a safe and effective way to explore Mount Ida and the surrounding region.
You can visit this site alone or with a group and expect to have an excellent experience.
Northwest Arkansas Gem and Mineral Society
The Northwest Arkansas Gem and Mineral Society pride itself as an educational society. They wish to spread the love and knowledge of geology with a close-knit community.
Unfortunately, they don’t have their details public on their Facebook page, but you can join and learn more about this group!
