Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park Guide
Echoes of the Past: Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park Guide
Discover a unique piece of Nevada's mining history at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park, located near Ely. These remarkably preserved beehive-shaped ovens stand as silent witnesses to the region's silver boom of the late 19th century. Explore these impressive structures and learn about the vital role they played in the extraction of precious metals. The six charcoal ovens were constructed in 1876 by the English firm of Ward and Company to provide charcoal for the nearby silver mines. Charcoal was essential for smelting the silver ore, and these ovens were designed to efficiently convert wood into this valuable fuel. The ovens operated for only a few years before the local timber supply was depleted, and the mines began to decline. Despite their relatively short lifespan, the ovens remain as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the early miners. Visitors can explore the interior of the ovens and marvel at their impressive size and construction. Hike the trails surrounding the park and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. The park offers camping facilities for those who wish to spend the night under the stars. While the park itself doesn't offer food, Ely is a short drive away and offers a variety of dining options.
Transportation
From Ely, take US-6/US-50/US-93 east for approximately 6 miles. Turn south onto Cave Lake Road and follow it for approximately 5 miles to the park entrance. The road is paved.