LynnT: Beater's and the D.C. area don't mix because of the dreaded "Emissions" laws that the beater must pass in order to pass in order to be registered and most beater trucks won't pass.Now, if you didn't really mean beater, in the strictest sense, but a truck in general, then the Toyota trucks are the best. The beds, however, are only 6 1/2 feet long. If that's not a problem, then try to find one with a 22R 4 cyl. engine. You might also want to get a cap for it since most plants don't like being all blown around but the caps are easy to find and sometimes free.
The Ranger trucks are cheaper but don't go as far as the Toyotas but if you don't plan on racking up a lot of miles, then one with around 100,000 miles with a V-6 engine will rpobably do you just fine. This also goes for the Chev S-10 and GMC s-15's.
Avoid all small Dodge trucks, Mazda and Nissan trucks. The Volkswagen Rabbit trucks are good, however.
In addition to knowing trucks, I am also an avid gardener and live in your area (Harpers Ferry) so if you have any specific questions about trucks, or would like my mechanic to do a prepurchase inspection on one you have found, PM me....
Bobert