Discover Nevada’s Fascinating Past at Ward Charcoal Ovens

The Ward Charcoal Ovens, which resemble beehives, were constructed in 1876 to produce charcoal for a pair of silver smelters in Ward, Nevada. At its peak, Ward was the biggest town in White Pine County, with a population 1500. Unfortunately, the remnants of the city now lie on private land.

Ward Charcoal Ovens, located in Nevada State Historical Park, is open year-round, but accessibility may be limited by winter snow or mud.

The ovens are made of stone quarried from the nearby hills and stand nearly 30 feet high. Charcoal was only made here for a few years. After silver smelters were shut down in nearby Ward, charcoal was unnecessary, and the ovens were abandoned. The beehive ovens have been used as a hideout for stagecoach bandits and a shelter for stockmen and prospectors.

Ward Charcoal Ovens

Ward Charcoal Ovens Park is at an elevation of about 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures often reach 90 degrees, winter 40 degrees, with lows below freezing.

The ovens at the park are fascinating, and visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on nearby trails. Additionally, there is a campground and a picnic area available for use. If you enjoy fishing, you can bring a rod and try your luck at Willow Creek, which is regularly stocked with trout.

The Ward Charcoal Ovens are in excellent condition despite being over 100 years old. They are a must-see for any history buff. The ovens are located in a remote area of Nevada, so it takes some effort to get there. But once you set your eyes on them, you’ll know the trip was worth it.

Ward Charcoal Ovens Where To Stay

The nearest town to the ovens is Ely, 20 miles north. Ely has a selection of motels, RV parks, and Casinos. Ely also has a selection of eateries, from Steak to Chinese food. Ely has a collection of interesting historic buildings, including the six-story Hotel Nevada, once the oldest in Nevada.

Nearby attractions include Nevada Northern Railway Museum, Great Basin National Park (60 miles), and Garnet Hill rock hound recreation area. If you like Ghost Towns, plenty of them are waiting to be explored within a 30-mile radius of Ely.

Nevada Northern Railway

Getting to the Ovens

Ward Charcoal Ovens is located in the Great Basin region of eastern Nevada.  To visit this Nevada State Historical Park, drive seven miles south of Ely on U.S. Highways 6-50-93, then eleven miles southwest on Cave Valley Road.

Cave Lake State Park

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