Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park in Ely, Nevada, is a historical site and home to 700 acres of outdoor recreational area for you to enjoy. The park is designed to preserve the six beehive-shaped charcoal ovens built in the late 19th century. The charcoal ovens at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park were once used between 1876 and 1879 to process silver ore found in the area. 

The ovens were only one part of what was once the thriving mining town of Ward, Nevada. After the town’s decline and a fire that destroyed a third of the town, there is little left of what it once was, save for the charcoal ovens two miles south of the townsite. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park offers many different recreational opportunities, from camping and picnicking to hiking, biking, and more. 

The charcoal ovens are also still available for tour. Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park is a great place to observe wildlife, with mule deer, grouse, and elk frequenting the park. For campers, the park offers two pull-through RV sites and many other spots for other kinds of camping. There’s also a group camping area that you may reserve. For day-use picnicking, the park features two areas with covered tables, restrooms, grills, and great views. 

On the water, guests can fish for rainbow trout at Willow Creek. Or take a walk along the trail system, which is appropriate for hiking and mountain biking and cross-country skiing, or snowshoeing during winter months. Dogs on a leash are welcome at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park. Be respectful of other park guests and the local wildlife; always pick up pet waste. 

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park is open year-round at all hours. The day use fee is $5 per vehicle, and camping fees are $15 per night. If you are near Eastern Nevada or you’d enjoy Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park’s beautiful scenery and variety of things to do, visit with your family and furry companion.