Crystal Mines of Arkansas

A July 2000 trip to Mt. Ida by Walkabout

Digging for crystals in the hills of the Ouachita mountains and taking the state highways to Eureka Springs. Relaxing, breathtaking, and an experience to remember.

  • 2 reviews
Finding crystals was so easy, the crystals were laying on the ground and hard physical work was unnecessary. It was exciting to find crystals as clear as water with perfect points. Found a special, off the beaten path campground with excellent sites for RVs, as well as cabins. Canoe float trips down the Ouachita River were a relaxing and pleasant experience. The river was not even 100 yards away from our camp site. The drive from Mt. Ida to Eureka Springs, Arkansas was breathtakingly beautiful. Very scenic and gorgeous views of mountains and valleys. Nice KOA Campground close to Eureka Springs. The old state highway through Eureka Springs and the many Victorian homes, bed and breakfast establishments, and shops on the drive made it well worth the visit.

Quick Tips:

Strongly suggest waiting until the weather is cooler to go to the crystal pits but even in the heat and humidity finding those crystals was exciting.

Best Way To Get Around:

Don't take a large RV through downtown Eureka Springs, it is a frightening experience. Better use a car and/or walk through the downtown area. The better to visit all of the wonderful shops and galleries.

High ShoalsBest of IgoUgo

Hotel

Way off the beaten path, no traffic. All the hookups needed for an RV and only $10 a night. The river was less than 100 yards away from our RV pad and the owner offered to take us upriver for a 4 hour float trip in a canoe for $25.00. Peaceful, quiet, pretty. What more can you want.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Walkabout on August 10, 2000

High Shoals
Hwy 21 and High Shoals Road Mt. Ida, Arkansas

About the Writer

Walkabout
Walkabout
Kansas City, Missouri
  • "I love to travel and see new sites. Mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and streams are my favorite..."
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  • 1 review

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