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Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park wilderness guide
State Historic Park · NV

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park in Nevada offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved charcoal ovens and scenic beauty, attracting outdoor enthusiasts for hiking and wildlife viewing.

State Historic Park7002+ Trails

Designation

State Historic Park

Total Wilderness Area

700

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park in Nevada offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved charcoal ovens and scenic beauty, attracting outdoor enthusiasts for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park is located in southeastern Nevada. The area is known for its six large beehive-shaped charcoal ovens, which were constructed in the late 19th century to produce charcoal for the nearby silver mines. These 30-foot tall structures are the park's centerpiece, offering a tangible connection to Nevada's mining history. The surrounding landscape features rugged mountains, sagebrush-covered vistas, and Pinyon-Juniper woodlands, creating a habitat for a variety of wildlife such as mule deer, raptors, and smaller mammals. Recreational opportunities abound, with hiking and mountain biking trails that provide panoramic views of the Shell Creek Mountain range. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, camping, and exploring the diverse geology and ecology of the park. The park’s remote location provides an ideal setting for dark sky viewing, making it popular among stargazers.

Field Guide · State Historic Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

The Majesty of Ward Mountain★ 7.5⌖ 1 miHiking
Ward Mountain

The Majesty of Ward Mountain

Explore the striking vistas of Ward Mountain, located about 20 minutes from Ely, Nevada. This moderate hike rewards with panoramic views of White Pine County. Ideal for hiking and camping, it's best visited in spring and fall when wildflowers bloom.

Discover the Unique Charms of Ward Charcoal Ovens★ 3.5⌖ 5 miHistorical Exploration
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Discover the Unique Charms of Ward Charcoal Ovens

Explore the unique Ward Charcoal Ovens near Ely, Nevada. These historical structures offer a tranquil setting for hiking and picnicking, best visited in spring or fall for comfortable temperatures. It's family-friendly and provides a serene escape for photographers and history buffs.

Historical ExplorationView Details→
Camping Serenity at Ward Mountain★ 8.5⌖ 9 miCamping
Ward Mountain Campground

Camping Serenity at Ward Mountain

Ward Mountain Campground near Ely, NV, offers a peaceful camping escape with views of the Nevada wilderness. Suitable for hiking and biking, it's a favorite for adventurers exploring the area's rich mining history. Best visited in spring and fall.

Discover the Wonders of Ice Plant Trailhead★ 7.8⌖ 10 miHiking
Ice Plant Trailhead

Discover the Wonders of Ice Plant Trailhead

Explore the Ice Plant Trailhead near Ely, NV. Discover desert flora, wildlife, and expansive views. Ideal in spring and fall, this remote spot is great for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.

Discover Ely's Natural Wonders★ 7.2⌖ 12 miHiking
Ely

Discover Ely's Natural Wonders

Explore Ely, NV, featuring diverse ecosystems ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting. Enjoy mountain biking at Cave Lake State Park, or fish at Comins Lake. Best visited in spring or fall, this area is known for its clear night skies perfect for stargazing.

Serenity at Cave Lake State Park★ 7.7⌖ 15 miFishing
Cave Lake State Park

Serenity at Cave Lake State Park

Explore Cave Lake State Park, a quiet escape near Ely, Nevada. Enjoy fishing for trout or hiking trails with moderate difficulty. Perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and serene landscapes. Best visited in spring and fall for mild weather.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The iconic six beehive-shaped charcoal ovens from the 1870s✦ Opportunities to see mule deer and raptors✦ A serene and remote setting perfect for stargazing✦ The Shell Creek Mountain range offering stunning views
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
Park Recreation

Mountain Biking

Available in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fees or permits required for day use.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Ward Charcoal Ovens Campground

Located near the ovens with accessible facilities, ideal for a rugged experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ely
⌖ 11.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ely, Nevada

A rugged and remote high desert haven that offers adventurous travelers panoramic views and thrilling outdoor activities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
McGill
⌖ 23.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McGill, Nevada

A historic mining town serving as a quiet gateway to diverse outdoor adventures in eastern Nevada’s high desert and nearby mountain ranges.

Late Spring to Early FallExplore Town
Baker
⌖ 48.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Baker, Nevada

A remote and serene escape that offers impressive stargazing and access to the natural wonders of the Great Basin National Park.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Eureka
⌖ 62.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Eureka, Nevada

A historic mining town basecamp offering rugged high-desert adventure with access to vast BLM lands, mountain trails, and wilderness areas.

Late spring to early fallExplore Town
Pioche
⌖ 83.51 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pioche, Nevada

A historic mining town offering remote solitude and rugged adventure within Nevada’s desert landscapes and diverse wildlife habitats.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Panaca
⌖ 93.75 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Panaca, Nevada

A hidden gem for desert explorers and those seeking solitude, offering unique geological landscapes and unspoiled nature.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Nevada Adventure: Inside the Area 51 Top Secret Tour by Adventure Photo ToursLas Vegas, Nevada · 135.97 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Adventure Photo Tours

Nevada Adventure: Inside the Area 51 Top Secret Tour by Adventure Photo Tours

Venture into Nevada’s most mysterious landscape with Adventure Photo Tours’ 10-hour trip into Area 51, where desert terrain meets high-security intrigue. Discover secretive landmarks and snap unforgettable photos in a landscape full of stories and legends. Join a guided convoy through the Nevada desert to uncover the secrets behind one of the world’s most guarded military zones. From stopovers at the famous Little A'le'Inn to the eerie Black Mailbox site, this trip offers a rare glimpse into the mystique that surrounds Area 51. As you traverse rugged desert paths, you’ll witness striking sandstone formations and possibly spot the convoy shuttling personnel for the clandestine base, all while enjoying the thrill of the unknown. This adventure is ideal for thrill-seekers, history buffs, or anyone curious about UFO sightings and top-secret military operations. The entire day promises photo ops of otherworldly desert landscapes paired with snippets of conspiracy lore. Bring your camera, your sense of adventure, and a willingness to embrace the mystery that makes Nevada’s desert so compelling. Whether you’re staying in Las Vegas or nearby, this tour is a can’t-miss for anyone wanting a bold, behind-the-scenes look at one of America’s most guarded secrets. Prepare for a long day of discovery, scenic views, and stories that’ll leave your imagination boosted long after the trip ends.

10 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.