Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park

Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park preserves a group of six beehive-shaped stone charcoal ovens and associated historic mining-camp remains in eastern Nevada. The ovens are a well-preserved example of 19th-century charcoal-production technology.

The ovens were constructed in the late 19th century to supply charcoal for regional mining and smelting operations associated with a nearby mining camp. The site later fell into disuse as local mining activity declined and was subsequently preserved as a historic site.

The park is located near the remains of the historic mining camp of Ward in central Nevada; access is by unsealed roads and short walking trails from the parking and picnic area.

• Historic ovens: The six historic ovens were built for charcoal production in the 19th century and are the central preserved feature of the park; they are clustered within a short walk from the parking area and have interpretive signage.

What to See#

• Charcoal ovens (six beehive ovens): Six beehive-shaped charcoal ovens built of local stone; each oven is a free-standing, dome-shaped structure with an interior chamber and small arched openings used historically for loading and venting during charcoal production.

The park is located about 40 km south of Ely, Nevada, off U.S. Route 6/50; the last stretch is on graded gravel. Passenger vehicles can reach the site, and there is a small parking area and short walking trail to the ovens.

• Visit at late afternoon for cooler temperatures and better light on the masonry ovens.
• Observe the fragile structure - the ovens are masonry and not designed for climbing or entry.
• Combine a visit with other historic sites in eastern Nevada for a fuller sense of 19th-century charcoal-iron industry.