Summary
There are several good reasons to visit the park, including its beautiful hiking trails, scenic vistas, and fascinating historical exhibits.
One of the main attractions at Gingko Petrified Forest State Park is the interpretive center, which houses exhibits on the park's geology, history, and natural resources. Visitors can learn about the park's ancient forests, prehistoric animals, and the processes that led to the formation of petrified wood.
In addition to the interpretive center, the park features several hiking trails that wind through the hills and canyons of the area. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape and provide opportunities to see the petrified wood up close.
One of the most interesting facts about Gingko Petrified Forest State Park is that it is home to some of the largest petrified logs in the world. These logs are estimated to be over 200 feet long and weigh thousands of pounds.
The best time of year to visit Gingko Petrified Forest State Park is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the park is less crowded. However, the park is open year-round and visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities during the summer months as well.
Overall, Gingko Petrified Forest State Park is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in geology, history, or outdoor recreation. With its unique features, beautiful scenery, and educational exhibits, it is a must-see attraction in the state of Washington.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Wanapum State Park/Ginkgo Petrified Forest
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Wanapum State Park
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Caliche Lake - WDFW
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Saddle Mountains
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