Ward Mountain Recreation Area and Campground sits in the shadow of its namesake, just 10 miles southwest from the city of Ely, in eastern Nevada. It sits at an elevation of 7,400 feet. Many trails are available for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.
Ward Mountain and the surrounding area offers miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Many of the trails offer scenic views of the surrounding high desert terrain.
This campground offers single-family campsites and three large group sites that can accommodate up to 100 or more people. Multiple access points for trails are found throughout the campground with the main trailhead located at the eastern most side.
All campsites are equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings and grills. Vault toilets, drinking water and trash collection are provided, but there is no electricity. A campground host is on-site.
Ward Mountain is the highest point in the Egan Range, topping out near 10,800 feet. The campground is well below the summit, but sits high above the desert floor below. A forest of pinyon pine and juniper trees covers the area, offering partial shade and privacy between campsites.
Comins Lake is about 13 miles from the campground offering boating and fishing for trout and bass. Cave Lake State Park is less than 20 miles away, with opportunities for boating and fishing for rainbow and brown trout.
Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park is 26 miles away, with interesting historic stone ovens and an interpretive trail. The Northern Nevada Railway in Ely has a museum and offers train rides. Stop by the Chamber of Commerce for more information on local events and sites.
From Ely, travel south on Highway 6 for 10 miles. Turn left just before Murray Summit, at the sign for the recreation area.
From Las Vegas, travel north on Highway 93 for about 86 miles, to the junction with State Route 318. Follow State Route 318 north for 124 miles, to Murray Summit. Turn right at the sign for the recreation area.
Group Sites: up to 25 people start at $35/day, 26-50 people is $45/day, and 51-100 max is $55/day.