Dig for Quartz Crystals at Crystal Vista
You’ll be digging for and collecting Quartz crystal points and clusters at the Crystal Vista mine. It’s just south of Mount Ida, Arkansas and it’s free.
This location has been written about in rock & mineral magazine and there are multiple YouTube videos showing ordinary rockhounds collecting beautiful crystal points.
You’ll spend most of your time digging and prospecting for Quartz crystals and Quartz crystal clusters. Don’t worry the process is fairly simple and you’re guaranteed to find some amazing crystal points.
Once again, this is an excellent location for families and junior rockhounds.
Keep reading below to learn more about what to bring, clothing types, and driving directions.
Quartz Crystals and Clusters
Quartz is one of the most common minerals in the Earth’s crust because it’s made of silicon and oxygen. With its elegant simplicity and mesmerizing clarity, quartz has fascinated both collectors and artists since ancient times.
It is found in sedimentary rocks as grains of sand and as crystals in igneous and metamorphic rocks. You can find Quartz crystals throughout the United States but the best location for digging and collecting these amazing crystals is in Arkansas.
Tools and Tips
A rockhound will want to pack a variety of tools for this trip. They should have snacks and drinks in case they get thirsty or hungry. Don’t forget about the weather and make sure to dress appropriately.
Must-Have Tools and Accessories
- Rock hammer
- Medium shovel
- 5-gallon buckets
- Big wheeled cart for the hike up to the mine
- Hat or sombrero
- Screwdriver
- Small garden tools
- Gloves
- Long pants
- Long sleeve (depends on weather)
- Boots
- Towels for drying off
- Fresh clothes (you’re going to sweat)
Make sure you’re a good steward of the property. Please pick up any trash and leave the location better than when you found it.
Most importantly, have fun collecting, and feel free to email us about your trip.
Driving directions
Directions:
Travel 3.8 miles south on Highway 27 from Mt. Ida.
Turn left, which means you’ll be headed east, on County Road 2237 (Owley Rd).
Travel 4.1 miles on Country Road 2237 for 4.1 miles which will bring you to the Crystal Vista trailhead.
GPS Coordinates
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