Located near the basin that served as a major stopover for settlers traveling on the Cave Valley Road, the Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park is named for the six historic charcoal ovens located on site. The beehive-shaped ovens were in operation between 1876 and 1879, during the silver boom period.

Once their purpose of producing charcoal ceased, they served to shelter people during bad weather and rumor has it that bandits used the ovens as a hideout.

The park provides plenty of recreational resources, including picnic facilities, camping, trails (for hiking and biking during summer and for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter), fishing, and nature study.

Address: Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, Ely, NV 89315, Phone: 775-289-1693

Plan Your Trip

Get Ready to Go!

Need some more help?


Read our Reservations & Travel Planning Tips guide.