Have you ever seen a tree turned to stone? If not, Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park in Washington is the perfect place to experience it.

The park sits near the town of Vantage and is a treasure trove of natural history, stunning landscapes, and family-friendly activities. Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or just looking for a unique outdoor adventure, this park has it all.

What Makes Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park Special?

This isn't just any state park. It's a National Natural Landmark and one of the most unique places in Washington state.

Established in 1935, it covers over 7,000 acres along the scenic western shores of the Columbia River's Wanapum Reservoir.

What makes it so fascinating? The petrified wood!

Here's why this park is a must-visit:

Over 50 species of petrified trees have been discovered here, including rare ginkgo, redwood, and maple trees.
The petrified wood is over 15 million years old, dating back to the Miocene epoch.
These trees were buried by volcanic ash and slowly turned to stone as minerals replaced the wood over time.

It's like walking through a prehistoric forest frozen in time.

Top Things to Do at Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

Learn About Fossils and History

Start at the Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center, where you can see:

Petrified wood fossils on display.
Wanapum petroglyphs are ancient carvings by the Wanapum tribe that share stories of life along the Columbia River.

Go Hiking

The park has two trails to explore:

1.5-mile Trailside Loop: A short, easy hike with petrified logs and signs explaining the area's history.

2.5-mile Trees of Stone Loop: A longer trail through sagebrush hills with more petrified logs and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge.

Both trails are well-marked, moderately easy, and accessible year-round. Don't forget your camera to capture the incredible fossils and sweeping views!

Enjoy Water Activities at Wanapum Recreation Area

Head to the Wanapum Recreation Area, located just down the road from the park, if you love being near the water. Here, you can enjoy:

Swimming at the designated beach (but remember, there's no lifeguard on duty).
Boating and fishing on the Columbia River.
Relaxing by the water and enjoying the fresh air.

Camp Under the Stars

Want to extend your trip? The Wanapum Recreation Area campground has:

Full-hookup RV sites.
Hiker and biker-friendly campsites.
Tent camping (but beware of high winds since they're common in this area!).

There's nothing like falling asleep under the stars after a day of exploring the park.

Fun Facts About Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

Here are some interesting facts about the park:

Washington's state gem is petrified wood, thanks to the discoveries made here.
The petrified wood in the park comes from trees that are now extinct, giving us a glimpse into the ancient past.
Highway workers first discovered the park's petrified logs in the 1930s. This led to the park's creation.
The Wanapum tribe, who once lived in the area, carved over 300 petroglyphs into the basalt cliffs. These petroglyphs were saved from flooding when the Wanapum Dam was built.

Where to Find Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park in Washington?

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is located near the town of Vantage, along the Columbia River.

The park's main entrance is on Huntzinger Road, and it's easy to access from I-90.

Directions to Ginkgo Interpretive Center

From I-90, take Exit 136 toward Vantage. Follow signs for Huntzinger Road, and the center is about 3 miles away.

Directions to Wanapum Recreation Area

From the same exit, continue south on Huntzinger Road for several miles to reach the Wanapum Recreation Area, where you'll find swimming, boating, and camping.

Tips for Visiting Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park

Here is how to get the most out of your trip:

Bring water and sunscreen. The area can get hot, especially in the summer.
Wear sturdy shoes. The trails are rocky in some spots.
Check the weather. High winds are common, especially in the evenings.
Plan ahead. The park is open from dawn to dusk, but hours vary depending on the season.
Bring your Discover Pass. A Discover Pass is required to enter the park. You can purchase an annual pass for $30 or a one-day pass for $10.
Camping. While Ginkgo Petrified Forest is a day-use park, you can camp at the Wanapum Recreation Area down the road. The campground has RV hookups, tent sites, and hiker/biker-friendly options. Be prepared for windy conditions if you're tent camping.
Pets are welcome. Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash. Keep them safe on the trails and clean up after them to protect the environment.