Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park Campground

About

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park protects one of Nevada's best-preserved examples of 19th-century industrial heritage. The six beehive-shaped stone kilns, each standing 30 feet tall, were constructed around 1876 to produce charcoal for silver smelting operations in the nearby Ward Mining District. After the mines declined, the ovens served various purposes including shelter for travelers and reportedly even stagecoach robbers. Willow Creek Campground provides a base for exploring this remote corner of eastern Nevada. Set in the Egan Mountain Range at roughly 7,000 feet elevation, the campground features primitive sites amid pinyon-juniper forest. Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and barbecue grill. Two large pull-through spaces accommodate RVs, while standard sites suit tent campers and smaller rigs. A group camping area is available for larger parties. The park offers excellent opportunities for solitude-seekers. Dark skies make it a prime stargazing destination. Hiking trails explore the surrounding ridgelines and canyons, and wildlife including mule deer, elk, and grouse are commonly spotted. The Legacy OHV Trail provides off-highway vehicle access to adjacent public lands.

Directions

From Ely, Nevada, head south on US-93 for about 7 miles to Cave Valley Road (SR 486). Turn west and follow Cave Valley Road approximately 11 miles to the park entrance. The road is paved to the park.