Crystal Vista: A Quartz Crystal Treasure Trove
Hike to a former crystal mine in Arkansas' Ouachita National Forest for panoramic views and a chance to dig your own quartz crystals.
Crystal Vista, nestled in the Ouachita National Forest near Mt. Ida, Arkansas, is a unique hiking area and former commercial crystal mine where visitors can dig for quartz crystals. The short but steep trail leads to panoramic views and a one-of-a-kind rockhounding experience.
A brief summary to Crystal Vista
- Mt Ida, Arkansas, 71957, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring sturdy hiking shoes, long sleeves, and pants to protect against the rocky terrain, thorns, and insects.
- Visit after a fresh rain for the best chance of finding crystals on the surface.
- Bring a bucket and small tools for digging, such as a rock hammer or pick.
- The vistas are best in late fall or winter when the vegetation is less dense.
Getting There
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Driving
From Mt. Ida, travel south on Highway 27 for approximately 3.8 miles. Turn left (east) onto County Road 2237, also known as Owley Road. Continue on Owley Road for 4.1 miles to the Crystal Vista trailhead. There is no fee to park or enter the area.
Discover more about Crystal Vista
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Buckeye Vista Overlook
39.9 km
Historic scenic overlook on the Talimena Scenic Drive, offering panoramic views of the Ouachita Mountains and Little Missouri River headwaters.
Sugar Creek Vista Overlook
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Enjoy panoramic views of the Ouachita National Forest from this historic overlook built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935.
Sutherlands
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Hot Springs, AR
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Uncover Hot Springs' scandalous past at the Gangster Museum of America, where mobsters and gambling ruled in this unique spa city.
Ron Coleman Mining
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Tiny Town
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Explore the enchanting world of Tiny Town in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where miniature artistry comes to life in a whimsical display of creativity and charm.
Best Court
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Experience the unique blend of history and comfort at Best Court Hotel in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where charming cottages meet natural beauty.
Downtown Association of Hot Springs
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Explore historic Bathhouse Row, unique shops, and natural beauty in the heart of Hot Springs. Your adventure starts here!
The Galaxy Connection
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Relive your childhood at this unique museum featuring vintage toys and pop culture memorabilia from Star Wars, Marvel, DC Comics, and more.
The Reserve at Hot Springs
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Experience Gilded Age luxury in Hot Springs. Stay in a historic mansion with modern amenities, beautiful gardens, and Southern charm.
1890 Williams House Bed & Breakfast
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Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort
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West Mountain Trail
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The Courthouse Chapel
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Happenings
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Unmissable attractions to see
Collier Springs
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Escape to Collier Springs in Ouachita National Forest: a historic picnic spot with a natural spring and CCC-built shelter near Mt. Ida, Arkansas.
Twin Creek Crystal Mine Ark
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Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig
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Denby Point Campground
11.9 km
Scenic Lake Ouachita campground with boating, fishing, hiking, and family-friendly amenities for a perfect outdoor escape.
Highway 27 Fishing Village
14.8 km
Lakeside camping and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest near Story, Arkansas.
Tompkins Bend Campground
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Experience lakeside camping at Tompkins Bend Campground on Lake Ouachita, offering scenic views, water activities, and access to the Ouachita National Forest.
Dragover Recreation Area
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Escape to Dragover Recreation Area in Arkansas's Ouachita National Forest for hiking, fishing, and serene river views.
Joplin Use Area
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Experience pristine lakefront camping at Joplin Use Area on Lake Ouachita, offering scenic views and outdoor recreation in the Ouachita Mountains.
Ouachita River Haven
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Experience the tranquility and adventure at Ouachita River Haven, where nature meets comfort in Arkansas' stunning landscapes.
Hickory Nut Mountain Vista
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Breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Ouachita from a unique stone overlook. Perfect for hiking, picnics, and enjoying nature's beauty in Arkansas.
Charlton Recreation Area
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Crystal Springs Recreation Area
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Crooked Creek Falls
26.5 km
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Dragons Eye
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Big Brushy Recreation Site
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Essential places to dine
Lake Ouachita
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Back Porch Grill
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Fisherman's Wharf Steak & Seafood
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Luna Bella
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Pizza Inn
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McClard's Bar-B-Q Restaurant
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J&S Italian Villa
49.6 km
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The Purple Cow Restaurant
49.8 km
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LongHorn Steakhouse
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Bleu Monkey Grill
49.9 km
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Best Cafe & Bar
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Phil's Family Restaurant
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Rocky's Corner
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Stubby's BBQ
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The Hungry Greek
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Crystal Garden
3.5 km
Explore the enchanting world of crystals at The Crystal Garden, a unique gift shop in Mt. Ida, Arkansas, perfect for treasure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Melba's Antiques & Collectibles
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Jay's Crystal Bonanza
4.8 km
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Crystal Town Music
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Minerals of Arkansas
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Ouachita Trading Co.
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MONTGOMER COUNTY NURSING HOME AUXILIARY THRIFT SHOP
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Senior Center Thrift Store
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Ceridwen's Magickal Supplies
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Lake Ouachita Decor & More
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Mount Ida Flea Market
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Real Earth Creations
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Marilyn's RV Park & Old Country Store
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Fiddler's Ridge Rock Shop
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Ruth's Twin Creek Bait & Tackle
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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270 Diner
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Pizza Pro
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Victory Pie Co.
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Mt Ida Cafe
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El Diamante Mexican Restaurant
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Shack Attack Pizza
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Lodge Restaurant
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Subway
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Ouachita Bootleggers BBQ
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Crystal Springs Marina Village
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Compass Fire Grill Tavern
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Bubba Brew's Sports Pub & Grill
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Los Roosters
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Sweetpea's Smokehouse
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