Arkansas, "The Natural State", is a beautiful land with mountains, valleys, national forests, fertile plains, and over 50 state parks throughout. A population of 2.3 million and a ranking of 27th in size among the states, Arkansas' fame lies in its scenic beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, rock hounding, and white water rafting. Northwest portions of the state include the Ouachita and Ozark Mountains while the eastern area consists of alluring valleys of the Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers. Since 1975, the Department of Arkansas Heritage has focused on the preservation of all natural and cultural resources. Native American culture, museums, and historical sites can be found statewide. The only active diamond mine in America, Crater of Diamonds State Park, is located in Murfreesboro. Rock hounding is a popular hobby and has gained quite a following with Arkansas' abundance of quartz crystals, diamonds, and various rocks and minerals.