Ginkgo Petrified Forest National Natural Landmark

Did you know that petrified wood is Washington’s official state gem? Considered one of the most diverse fossil forests in North America, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is famous for its rare specimens of petrified Ginkgo tree discovered there in 1932.

Curious? Drive to the park interpretive center and take in the big skies, Columbia River views and outdoor exhibits of petrified wood. Look for evidence of Ice Age Floods carved into the walls of the Columbia River. Then step inside the Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center which features more than 30 varieties of petrified wood, including a display of rare ginkgo petrified wood.

Drive the Old Vantage Highway to the Ginkgo “trailside museum,” constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and recently updated with a new interpretive exhibit. From here, the Trees of Stone Interpretive Trail winds past more than 20 petrified logs in their original settings. Birders, look for golden eagles, sage thrashers, Say’s phoebes and many other species. Elk and bighorn sheep also frequent this area.

You may want to reserve a campsite at nearby Wanapum Recreation Area so you can cap off a hot day with a refreshing swim or boat float in Wanapum Lake (a reservoir on the Columbia River). Pitch your tent or connect your RV, make a picnic under a shady tree, and savor this green oasis.

PARK FEATURES

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is a 7,124-acre park with camping at Wanapum Recreation Area. The park features 27,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on the Wanapum Lake along the Columbia River. Ginkgo Petrified Forest is a registered National Natural Landmark.

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is comprised of three primary locations. See tabs below for more information on specific opportunities within each area of the park.

• Wanapum Recreation Area hosts a campground, boat ramp and ample day-use area with a swim beach.
• Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center offers day-use picnic areas, exterior displays and an interpretive facility.
• The Trailside Museum and Trees of Stone Interpretive Trail include signage about the petrified wood and 1.25 miles of trail that weave through petrified logs in their original setting. A total of 3 miles of hiking trails are at this site.

Automated pay stations: This park is equipped with automated pay stations for visitors to purchase a one-day or annual Discover Pass and boat launch permit.

Electric-vehicle charging station: The park offers a solar-powered EV charging station at no cost to users. Learn more about this charging station.