Ginkgo Petrified Forest

Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park encompasses 7,470 acres along the Columbia River near Vantage, Washington, preserving one of the most diverse petrified forests in North America. The park contains fossilized remains of over 50 tree species that grew 15-16 million years ago, including the rare ginkgo tree for which the park is named. Visitors explore geological wonders, learn about ancient ecosystems through interpretive displays, and enjoy modern recreation including hiking, camping, and water sports on the Columbia River. The park features dramatic basalt formations, shrub-steppe landscapes, and access to the Wanapum Reservoir. Educational facilities include an interpretive center showcasing petrified wood specimens and explaining the area's geological history. Ginkgo represents a unique combination of paleontological significance and outdoor recreation. The park attracts scientists, rockhounds, families, and outdoor enthusiasts year-round.

The park supports wildlife typical of Columbia Basin shrub-steppe and riparian environments. Mule deer are common throughout the park, particularly in early morning and evening hours. Coyotes, badgers, and bobcats inhabit the rocky terrain and grassland areas. The Columbia River and shoreline attract bald eagles, osprey, and various waterfowl. Golden eagles, red-tailed hawks, and prairie falcons soar above cliffs and hunt over grasslands. Songbirds including meadowlarks, rock wrens, and canyon wrens are common. The river supports populations of bass, walleye, trout, and sturgeon. Rattlesnakes and other reptiles inhabit rocky areas, especially during warmer months. California quail and chukar partridge utilize shrubby habitats. Small mammals including ground squirrels, chipmunks, and various rodents provide prey for raptors and carnivores. The interface between aquatic and terrestrial habitats creates biodiversity hotspots along the shoreline.

Modern vegetation consists of shrub-steppe dominated by big sagebrush, rabbitbrush, and antelope bitterbrush. Native bunchgrasses including bluebunch wheatgrass and Idaho fescue persist in less-disturbed areas. Invasive cheatgrass has colonized much of the landscape, altering fire regimes and competing with native species. Spring wildflowers include arrowleaf balsamroot, lupine, desert parsley, and phlox creating vibrant displays. Riparian zones along the Columbia River support willows, cottonwoods, and water-loving plants. Rock outcrops host specialized drought-tolerant species adapted to extreme conditions. The petrified forest reveals that 15 million years ago, the area supported diverse temperate forests including ginkgo, oak, maple, elm, and other species now extinct in the region. Ancient climate was much wetter and warmer than today's arid conditions. The contrast between ancient and modern vegetation illustrates dramatic climate and landscape changes over geological time.

The petrified forest formed when trees were buried by basalt lava flows from the Columbia River Basalt Group 15-16 million years ago. Rapid burial and silica-rich groundwater allowed cellular replacement, creating detailed petrified wood preserving tree structure. Multiple lava flows created the layered basalt formations visible throughout the park. Erosion gradually exposed petrified logs embedded in basalt and surrounding sediments. The diversity of petrified species suggests the ancient forest grew during a wetter, warmer climate period. Columnar jointing in basalt created geometric patterns as lava cooled and contracted. The Columbia River carved through basalt layers, creating cliffs and exposing geological history. The Missoula Floods scoured the landscape during the last ice age, further shaping topography. Ongoing erosion continues to reveal new petrified wood specimens. The site provides exceptional insights into ancient Pacific Northwest ecosystems and volcanic activity.

The park experiences a semi-arid climate with hot, dry summers and cold winters typical of the Columbia Basin. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F and can surpass 100°F during heat waves with minimal shade. Winter temperatures range from 20-40°F with occasional snow and ice. Annual precipitation averages 8-10 inches, concentrated in late fall, winter, and spring months. Strong winds are common, particularly during spring, affecting recreation on the Columbia River. Spring temperatures (50-70°F) are moderate with peak wildflower displays in April and May. Fall offers comfortable temperatures and stable weather conditions ideal for hiking and camping. The river creates localized microclimates with slightly moderated temperatures near water. Temperature inversions can occur in winter, creating foggy conditions. The dry climate and intense summer sun require visitors to prepare for heat exposure and limited water availability. Understanding seasonal conditions is essential for safe and comfortable visits.

Indigenous peoples including the Wanapum and other Columbia River tribes utilized this area for thousands of years. Native communities fished for salmon, hunted game, and gathered plants along the river. Rock art and archaeological sites document long-term human presence in the region. The area's cultural significance includes traditional fishing sites and seasonal camps. Euro-American exploration increased in the 19th century with fur traders and later settlers. The transcontinental railroad reached the area in the 1880s, with Vantage becoming a river crossing point. Petrified wood collecting by early settlers and commercial operations removed significant specimens before protection efforts. The Vantage Bridge construction in the 1920s improved transportation across the Columbia River. Wanapum Dam construction in the 1960s created the reservoir and changed the river landscape. The dam flooded some archaeological and geological sites, increasing the importance of protected areas. Modern interpretation acknowledges indigenous connections and geological significance.

Ginkgo Petrified Forest was designated a state park in 1935 to protect unique paleontological resources from commercial exploitation. The park was named after the rare ginkgo tree fossils found in the deposits. Early development included trails to petrified log sites and a museum to display specimens. The interpretive center, opened in later decades, showcases the diversity of petrified wood and explains geological processes. A trees-of-stone trail allows visitors to view petrified logs in their natural setting. Collection of petrified wood from the park has been prohibited to preserve resources for scientific study and public education. The park expanded over time to include Columbia River shoreline and camping facilities. Management balances paleontological resource protection with public recreation access. Research continues to reveal new information about ancient forests and environmental conditions. The park represents Washington's commitment to preserving geological heritage while providing educational and recreational opportunities.

The Trees of Stone Interpretive Trail is a 2.5-mile loop showcasing petrified logs in their natural basalt matrix. The Heritage Area includes shorter accessible trails to view key specimens and interpretive displays. The Interpretive Center features extensive petrified wood displays, including rare ginkgo specimens and other fossilized trees. Wanapum Recreation Area provides Columbia River access for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Several hiking trails explore basalt formations and shrub-steppe landscapes with views of the Columbia River. Fossil collection is prohibited within the park, but the interpretive center satisfies rockhound interests. Scenic viewpoints overlook the Columbia River, Wanapum Reservoir, and surrounding basalt cliffs. Camping facilities provide base camps for exploring the region. Spring wildflower displays attract photographers and nature enthusiasts. Educational programs explain geological history, ancient forests, and modern ecology. The combination of paleontological wonders and outdoor recreation creates diverse visitor experiences.

The park is located along Interstate 90 near Vantage, approximately 150 miles east of Seattle. The Interpretive Center houses exhibits, restrooms, and staff to answer visitor questions. Wanapum Recreation Area offers 50 campsites with hookups for RVs and tent camping. Campground amenities include restrooms with showers, picnic tables, fire grills, and a dump station. Day-use areas provide picnic facilities, river access, and parking. A boat launch accommodates watercraft for access to the Columbia River and Wanapum Reservoir. Trails are generally accessible for moderate hiking ability, with some challenging terrain on longer routes. Cell phone coverage is generally available in developed areas. Nearest full services including gas, food, and lodging are in Vantage or Ellensburg. The park is open year-round, though some facilities close seasonally. Summer is peak season for camping and water recreation. Entrance fees apply with options for day-use or camping.

Protecting irreplaceable petrified wood from theft and vandalism is a critical management priority. Prohibition on collecting ensures future generations can experience and study these resources. Erosion management protects exposed fossils from weathering while allowing controlled scientific access. Invasive species control focuses on reducing cheatgrass and restoring native shrub-steppe vegetation. Fire management addresses increased wildfire risk from invasive annual grasses. Wildlife habitat conservation maintains shrub-steppe communities supporting diverse species. Water quality monitoring in the Columbia River tracks potential impacts from recreation and surrounding land uses. Educational programs promote Leave No Trace ethics and geological resource appreciation. Research partnerships with universities and museums advance scientific understanding of ancient ecosystems. Climate change considerations inform long-term management as modern conditions continue diverging from ancient environments. The park demonstrates stewardship of paleontological resources while providing public access to extraordinary geological heritage.