Ward Mountain Recreation Area
A 14-hole disc golf course on BLM land in eastern Nevada — proof that even smaller offices can support disc golf.
Ward Mountain Recreation Area in Ely, Nevada, is home to a 14-hole disc golf course on BLM land managed by the Bristlecone Field Office. While less documented than Stewart Pond or Three Peaks, Ward Mountain represents an important data point: disc golf on BLM land isn’t limited to large offices or high-profile recreation areas.
What we know
- 14-hole layout in the Ward Mountain Recreation Area
- Managed by BLM’s Bristlecone Field Office
- Located near Ely, Nevada — a small community (population ~4,000) in White Pine County
- Part of a broader recreation area that includes camping, hiking, and mountain biking
Why Ward Mountain matters
Small-office viability
Bristlecone Field Office serves one of the least-populated areas in the lower 48 states. If disc golf works here, it can work at almost any BLM office with willing staff and a local partner.
Gateway community fit
Ely is exactly the kind of gateway community the EXPLORE Act targets — a small town near significant public lands that benefits from recreation-driven visitation. Disc golf at Ward Mountain is a low-cost visitor amenity that helps diversify the recreation offering.
Expansion potential
A 14-hole course suggests an opportunity for expansion to a full 18-hole layout. Under EXPLORE Act authorities — particularly volunteer stewardship (Section 341) and accessibility requirements (Sections 214–215) — an upgrade project with accessible features could be a strong proposal.
Strategic significance
Bristlecone Field Office is a Tier 2 target for EXPLORE Act engagement. The existing course provides a foundation for a conversation about expansion, accessibility upgrades, and deeper partnership — easier than proposing something entirely new.
Interested in this BLM office?
Find contact information and learn how to engage the Bristlecone Field Office.