The colors of diamonds found in the park range from white , to brown , to yellow . But diamonds aren ’ t the only precious stones to be found . You may also run across stones like amethyst , garnet , agate , jasper , quartz , and other minerals . Park staff will provide free identification and certification of all diamonds that are found in the area . If you are wild about geology or are a rock collector , then this park is for you . Rent a set of mining tools and get to digging !
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“ THERE ARE OVER 1,000 DIFFERENT TYPES OF PLANTS , AND WELL OVER 500 DIFFERENT SPECIES OF ANIMALS TO ENJOY WHILE IN BIG BEND .”
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Crater of Diamonds State Park fully functions as any other state park would , even though it is far from the norm . Enjoy one of the many campsites for an overnight stay , and be sure to check out the gift shop , grab a bite to eat in the restaurant , if you are traveling during the warmer months , bring a bathing suit for the Diamond Springs Water Park .
B i g B e n d N at i o n a l Pa r k T e x a s
Big Bend National Park is just over 800,000 acres in area and is located in West Texas , where some parts border Mexico . There are over 1,000 different types of plants , and well over 500 different species of animals to enjoy while in the park . There are 450 bird species alone , which is more than you ’ ll find in any other National Park in the United States . Take notice of the unique geological features , such as volcanic rock sheets and even dinosaur bone findings .
The Big Bend itself is named for the enormous curve that the Rio Grande makes in the southwest Texas region . It is vast , wild , and wildly mesmerizing , and there are plenty of things to do during your visit , from horseback riding and mountain climbing , to biking , hiking , jeep touring , and camping .
Historic districts within the park allow you to view old artifacts from United States Army camps that were housed here , and even adobe buildings from the era . If you just can ’ t get enough of the natural beauty , spend the night in Big Bend and make sure you ’ re awake during sunrise , when the Milky Way spans over the sky . Because the park is so wide and spans over 1,000 miles , the stars are more brilliant than in most places in the country . Water pools and springs throughout the park showcase its diverse landscape , as many of the rock formations and mountains in Big Bend are over 75 million years old .
If you ’ re looking for true awe and wonder , Big Bend National Park is the place to be , especially during the spring season , when everything is in bloom . Birds will be flying and chirping about , and you may even spot a black bear and her cubs . Whatever you set your eyes on here will be truly unforgettable .
Big Bend National Park
There are endless miles of adventure waiting for you , so pack your bags and explore some of the best outdoor paradises that the South has to offer . These parks put the wild in wilderness !