Ginkgo Petrified Forest Interpretive Center

Inside the Center, displays, videos and park staff tell the history behind the petrified forest and the Ice Age floods. Outside the Center, visitors can enjoy the day-use/picnic area, view the scenic river, touch petrified wood and view the landscape carved by the Ice Age floods.

Hours of operation

Hours of operation vary throughout the year, see listed hours below:

• Dec. 24, 2023 - Mar. 17, 2024, open Sundays only, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Mar. 18 - May 15, open Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• May 16 - Sept. 30, open Thursday through Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Oct. 1 - Dec. 23, open Friday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Group tours

For school tours or group visits, please contact staff to schedule tour.

Area attractions

Located two miles west of the center, the Trailside Museum and Trees of Stone Interpretive Trailhead are the remnants of the Civilian Conservation Corps’ early involvement in the creation of this park. The 1.25-mile interpretive trail guides you through an ancient fossil bed with dozens of exposed petrified logs.

Camping and water activities are available at nearby Wanapum Recreation Area.

Ice Age Floods in Washington

To learn more about the Ice Age Floods in Washington, visit the Ice Age Floods Institute website.