Willow Creek Rec Area State Park

Isolated within the rugged beauty of Nevada’s Egan Mountain Range, the Willow Creek Campground at Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, natural tranquility, and outdoor adventure. Key features include its proximity to the iconic Ward Charcoal Ovens, panoramic desert views, and some of the darkest night skies for stargazing.

This 14-site campground accommodates both tents and RVs, featuring two large pull-through sites and an ADA-accessible site. Essential amenities include picnic tables, BBQ grills, fire rings, pit toilets, and potable water available seasonally (mid-May through September). The sites ensure a peaceful stay, with ample spacing and shade provided by surrounding trees. Beyond the campground, the park offers a network of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and off-highway vehicles, as well as Willow Creek’s fishing opportunities with naturally reproducing rainbow, brown, and brook trout.

Just 18 miles from Ely, Nevada, this campground provides easy access to the park’s historic beehive-shaped charcoal ovens, built in the 19th century and steeped in local lore. Within a 30-minute drive, Ely offers additional amenities and attractions, making Willow Creek an ideal destination for off-the-grid camping, wildlife spotting, and exploring Nevada’s rich history and landscapes.