Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is located in eastern Washington along the Columbia River, near the town of Vantage. The park features one of the most significant deposits of petrified wood in the Northwest, including the rare Ginkgo tree fossils from the Eocene Epoch, approximately 45 million years ago. The geology includes colorful fossilized logs embedded in layers of sedimentary rock, set against dramatic basalt cliffs and the river below. The landscape supports shrub-steppe ecosystems with sagebrush, grasses, and intermittent wildlife, such as birds of prey, mule deer, and small mammals. The park's history dates back to fossil discoveries in the 1930s, leading to its establishment in 1965 to protect these remarkable paleontological sites. Outdoor visitors can enjoy hiking on several trails that wind through areas with interpretive signs about the fossils and natural history. Camping facilities offer opportunities for overnight stays with views of the Columbia River Gorge. Additionally, the park is a favored spot for photography, birding, and peaceful riverside recreation. Its accessibility via Interstate 90 makes it a convenient stop for those traveling through the region. The petrified forest remains a prominent natural landmark, combining geological wonder with outdoor adventure and educational value.
