Ward Mtn. Campground (Murray Summit)
4.54100 reviews825 AVENUE E, ELY, NV, 89301, USA
Ward Mtn. Campground (Murray Summit)
$12.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Rates range from $12 for standard non-electric and RV sites to $75 for group areas. Senior pass holders receive a 50% discount.
About this campground
Escape to Ward Mountain Campground, a hidden gem nestled 10 miles southwest of Ely, Nevada, where the high desert meets the sky at 7,400 feet. This peaceful retreat invites adventurers to explore miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding through Nevada's rugged beauty. Each thoughtfully spaced campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, creating the perfect basecamp for starlit evenings and morning coffee with mountain views. Modern vault toilets ensure comfort during your stay, while spacious group sites welcome gatherings of up to 100 people, making it ideal for family reunions, club outings, or wilderness weddings under the vast Nevada sky.
Ward Mountain Campground accommodates tent, RV, and group camping. It includes single-family sites and three large group sites that can host up to 100 people. Primitive camping is not explicitly described.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time and explore Nevada's rich mining heritage just beyond your campsite. The remarkable Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park preserves beehive-shaped stone kilns that once fueled the silver boom, standing as silent sentinels of the Old West. Railroad enthusiasts will delight in the Nevada Northern Railway Museum in nearby Ely, where vintage locomotives still steam through the desert on scenic excursions. For those seeking aquatic adventures, Cave Lake State Park offers excellent trout fishing and paddling opportunities, creating a perfect trifecta of historical exploration and outdoor recreation in eastern Nevada's treasure-filled landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic temperature swings that make high-altitude camping an adventure at Ward Mountain. Summer days warm the sagebrush-scented air, perfect for trail exploration, before giving way to crisp, star-filled nights that call for cozy campfires and warm sleeping bags. Spring and fall visitors should come prepared for Mother Nature's surprises – at 7,400 feet, morning frost can dust your tent like powdered sugar, and unexpected snow flurries may transform the landscape into a temporary winter wonderland, adding an element of excitement to shoulder-season camping.
ElevationPerched at 7,400 feet in Nevada's high country, Ward Mountain Campground offers a refreshing escape from desert heat and a front-row seat to some of the West's most spectacular night skies. This elevated paradise brings cool, comfortable nights even during summer's peak, while spring and fall campers might wake to find their world transformed by a delicate frost or surprise snowfall. The thin mountain air enhances every sunset and makes the stars appear close enough to touch, creating an atmospheric camping experience that feels worlds away from the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath the commanding presence of Ward Mountain's 10,800-foot summit, the campground unfolds across a landscape where ancient pinyon pines and fragrant junipers create natural privacy screens between sites. This corner of the Egan Range showcases high desert beauty at its finest – weathered rock formations catch the golden hour light, while native wildflowers paint splashes of color across the hillsides in spring and early summer. The partially shaded sites offer respite from the sun while maintaining those cherished mountain views, creating an intimate connection with the rugged Nevada wilderness that surrounds you.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of eastern Nevada's high desert at Ward Mountain Campground, proudly situated within the vast Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest. This geological wonderland in the Egan Range tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient seas once covered the land and tectonic forces thrust these mountains skyward. Today, forests of pinyon pine and juniper cling to slopes carved by time, creating a unique ecosystem where Great Basin flora and fauna thrive. The campground serves as your gateway to understanding this remarkable landscape, where every rock formation and ridgeline reveals another chapter in Nevada's epic geological narrative.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible vault toilets and picnic areas. The layout of the campsites ensures privacy, and the relatively flat terrain makes it suitable for campers seeking easy accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites are reported to be large and spacious, offering separate areas for tents and RVs. "Sites were nice and spaced out with greenery for privacy" and "Sites are large, and very clean," noted several campers.
Sites PrivacyThe sites provide semi-private to private camping experiences, as described: "Separated by junipers and pines," "Spacious sites with greenery for privacy," and "For as many spots as there are you still feel basically alone."
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites in Loop WMRV provide semi-private large camp spaces ideal for tents or small RVs.
Best CampsitesGroup sites are highly rated for large gatherings; Site 023 in Loop WMRV is praised for being quiet and well-maintained.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Standard sites accommodate tent or RV use
- group sites can host up to 100 people.
Groups
The group sites can accommodate up to 100 or more people. They include picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills, with proximity to vault toilets and trash collection.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes three loops, with standard and group sites. Sites are mostly back-in with gravel pads.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 15 to September 30 for reservations, with first-come-first-served availability in shoulder season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or the mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-served sites available during non-peak season; walk-up availability may be limited during hunting season or holidays.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least one day before scheduled arrival for individual sites to avoid forfeiting the first night’s fees. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and the reservation fee is non-refundable.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ward Mountain Campground offers a rich variety of outdoor activities for campers, including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The trail network features extensive routes through scenic high desert terrain. Wildlife viewing and horseshoe pits are also available.
Hiking
Miles of trails for hiking are accessible directly from the campground. User reviews highlight their quality, saying: "Great hiking trails," "Trail network for hiking, biking, horses leaves from the campground," and "I climbed the G loop right out of the campground... the views and downhill were well worth it."Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby attractions like Comins Lake (13 miles away) and Cave Lake State Park (less than 20 miles away). Both locations offer fishing opportunities for species like trout and bass.Biking
The campground features biking trails that cater to various skill levels. User reviews describe them as "Excellent bike trails among medium growth cedar" and "Great biking trails everywhere."Boating
Boating is available at nearby Comins Lake and Cave Lake State Park. "Comins Lake is about 13 miles from the campground offering boating," noted the official sources.Wildlife viewing
The campground is described as an excellent location for observing wildlife, with mentions of bird species like the Woodhouse's Scrub-Jay in user reviews.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park offers historic stone ovens and an interpretive trail, providing opportunities for cultural and educational exploration.Winter Activities
Potential winter activities include hiking or biking, but specific details about snow sports or ice fishing are absent.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking may be possible at nearby lakes, but they are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews or authoritative content.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are only allowed within designated rings; bans may be enforced during high fire danger.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsSome reviews mention fire bans during high winds, aggressive mosquitoes at dawn and dusk, and occasional washboarding on access roads.
Active alertsAlerts include seasonal water availability issues due to well pump repairs.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest hospital and police station are located in Ely, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided on-site, as indicated in the official description and several user reviews like "Trash dumper available." Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresComins Lake (13 miles), Cave Lake State Park (20 miles), Ward Charcoal Ovens State Park (26 miles).
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include lack of water, loud group activities, and occasional generator noise.
HostA camp host is on-site during peak season and is noted for being helpful and friendly.
Campground Map
825 AVENUE E, ELY, NV, 89301, USA
Driving directionsFrom 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.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, with a short gravel road leading to the campground itself. Some user reviews mention washboarding on the gravel road, advising a slow approach.Nearby places
Ely (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes driving time)
Nearby supplies
Gas stations, Ridley's Market for groceries, and other supplies are located in Ely, 10 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.5
100 reviews
Ward Mtn. Campground (Murray Summit) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is generally praised for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and accessibility to outdoor activities. Common themes include the lack of water, the presence of clean vault toilets, and the quality of hiking and biking trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 100 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets, spacious campsites, accessible trails, and proximity to Ely for supplies are frequent positives. "One of the cleanest and well-maintained Forest Service campgrounds I have been...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The lack of water has been consistently noted: "Currently NO WATER so come prepared." Other complaints include occasional generator noise, rowdy group sites, and mild traffic noise from nearby...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water due to recurring pump issues; generators may run frequently in certain areas; proximity to Ely allows for quick access to supplies.
Based on 100 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are highly recommended due to cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. Summer reviews highlight hot days but cool nights. Winter brings challenges like freezing temperatures and snow....
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Cleanest pit toilets I have ever experienced." "Sites are well spaced, separated by junipers and pines." "Dry camping for senior pass is only $4 a night." "Currently NO WATER so come prepared."
Based on 100 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback highlights spacious layouts and cleanliness, with reservations advisable for group sites. A review for site 016 notes, "Clean and orderly campground." For site 028, "This was...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and picnic areas cater to campers with disabilities. "Accessible pit toilets and picnic areas" were highlighted in official descriptions.
Based on 100 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but some reviews warned about stickers and thorns in the area that could affect pets.
Based on 100 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025