Crystal Vista
Arkansas
Find: Quartz
GPS: 34.50389, -93.6124
Nearest city: Hot Springs, AR
Recommended Vehicle: Any
Summary:
Crystal Vista is within National Forest lands in Arkansas. It is a great spot for both avid collectors and families, with plentiful quartz crystals able to be found following a beautiful hike up the mountain. The quartz here isn’t as striking in size or character as you might find at a place like Ron Coleman or Fisher Mountain, though.
The hike is steep but not overbearing, however there is little to no shade in the digging area. As of 2025, they’ve done some work up top to incorporate new fencing they’d like you to stay within. There is still plenty to be found within the fencing.
I found that a 3lb hammer and flat chisel were most productive for digging through hard rock to expose pockets of small quartz crystals resting in clay pockets. I recommend a deer antler or tent stake to extract quartz crystals if you find them, as the material is soft to prevent scratching your finds.
3 Helpful Tools
D-Handle Mini Shovel
A good short-handle shovel will help you clear out your tailings as you clear out pieces of hard rock when digging holes.
Gad Bar
This is my most versatile tool I dig with. I use it to pry apart hard rock and reach into tight spaces.
3lb Hammer
A 3lb hammer is a great weight to go with to balance packing enough punch and all-day swinging.