Nevada Day Trips Destination Guide to the Silver State

Ward Charcoal Ovens Historic Park


 


Ward Charcoal Ovens six bee hive looking ovens were built around 1876 to provide charcoal for two silver smelters located at Ward. At one time Ward was the largest town in White Pine County with a population of 1500. The ovens are made from quartz welded tuff that was quarried from the nearby hills. Charcoal was only made here for a few years. the silver smelters were shut down and they was no need for the charcoal.Through the years the bee hive ovens have been used as a hideout for stagecoach bandits and a shelter for stockmen and prospectors.
Ward Charcoal Ovens Nevada
Today the Ward Charcoal Ovens are a Nevada State Historic Park. Along with viewing the ovens visitors can enjoy camping at Willow Creek Campground, Fishing in Willow Creek, hiking or have a picnic. Tables and grills located throughout the park. The park is at an elevation of about 7,000 feet and is open year-round, however, access in the winter months may be hampered by snow and mud. Summer temperatures often reach 90 degrees, winter 40 degrees with lows often well below freezing.


 
To visit Ward Charcoal Ovens drive seven miles south from Ely on U.S. Highways 6-50-93, then eleven miles southwest on Cave Valley Road. You may also access the park by turning off of U.S. Highway 6-50-93 approximately 14 miles south of Ely and then 5 miles west on Taylor Road to Cave Valley Road then 1.5 miles southwest to the park entrance. Cave Valley Road and Taylor Road are graded dirt roads, accessible by passenger vehicles most of the year.
 
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