Acreage

7469.88 acres with 26,620 feet of freshwater shoreline on Wanapum Reservoir.

Acquired

Ginkgo-Wanapum was acquired in nine parcels; the first in 1948 and the last in 1965, for a total cost of $282,747.

Historical Background

The park is an area of exposed petrified wood and logs, which grew as far back as the Miocene epoch. The existence of the petrified wood was discovered during highway construction in the early 1930s. Common among the wood remains are pieces of petrified Ginkgo, a tree which previously grew in the area. The Ginkgo exists now only as a specimen tree and grows nowhere in the wild. Wanapum was named in memory of an extinct Indian tribe, the Wanapums, who once inhabited the area.

Facilities

Ginkgo - 10 picnic sites, 2 residences, 2 comfort stations, interpretive center, 3 miles of hiking trails, a 1-mile interpretive trail, and parking for 80 cars. The Commission has a concession agreement with Tower Optical Company for the rental of binoculars.

Wanapum - 1 ADA campsite, 47 picnic sites, 50 utility sites, 2 comfort stations, double lane boat launch, bathhouse/ concession stand, a residence and shop.

Activities

Hiking, picnicking, camping, interpretive appreciation, waterskiing, swimming, and fishing.