Prairie Dog State Park

Star4.55
13 reviews
13037 State Highway 261, Norton, Kansas, 67654, United States
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

2,392 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

215 campsites

Season

Seasonal water syste...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

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Prairie Dog State Park
$20.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $20 for primitive sites to $35 for premium cabin rentals. Additional motor vehicle permit fees may be required.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.55

Top-Rated

Based on 13 reviews

10 Google reviews

Most mentioned

shadestaffsites

"Campers generally appreciate the park for its peaceful ambiance, convenient facilities, and scenic location. However, some expressed concerns about restroom cleanliness."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

13037 State Highway 261, Norton, Kansas, 67654, United States

Prairie Dog State Park

13037 State Highway 261, Norton, Kansas, 67654, United States

Driving directionsFrom Norton, Kansas, the park is located four miles west on Highway 36 and one mile south on Highway 261.
The park is easily accessible by paved roads, with clear directions provided via Highway 36 and Highway 261. Seasonal water system may affect access to water services.
Nearby places
Norton (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), Denver, CO (approximately 236 miles), Kansas City, MO (approximately 250 miles).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, fuel, ATM, and restaurants available within 10 miles in Norton, Kansas.

Best Time to Camp at Prairie Dog State Park

Each season paints Prairie Dog State Park with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the prairie and temperatures that demand cozy campfires. Spring awakens the grasslands with wildflowers and perfect camping weather, while autumn delivers crisp air and golden light ideal for outdoor exploration. Summer brings warm days that beckon swimmers to the reservoir's refreshing waters, though occasional humidity reminds visitors they're still in the heartland.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season mid-May–mid-Sept; full amenities and water access available in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall offers pleasant weather and scenic prairie; fewer visitors than summer.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring brings wildlife activity; note that water systems come back mid-April.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Snowy, scenic but water is shut off mid-Oct–mid-April and amenities are reduced.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season is during summer months; mid-May through mid-September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Seasonal water systems shut off mid-October and turned back on mid-April. Reduced amenities during those months.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal water system shutdown from mid-October to mid-April. Other alerts are not provided.

About Prairie Dog State Park

Where the endless Kansas sky meets the High Plains, Prairie Dog State Park welcomes adventurers to 215 campsites nestled along the shimmering shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir. Here, curious prairie dogs pop up from their bustling underground cities to greet visitors, while anglers cast lines into pristine waters and boaters cruise the expansive lake. This 1,150-acre sanctuary blends wildlife encounters with water recreation, creating an unforgettable escape where the prairie's ancient rhythms still pulse beneath modern adventures.
Prairie Dog State Park caters to a variety of camping preferences, from primitive tent sites to reservable cabins. RV campers are well-accommodated with electric and water hookups.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
After-hours check-in available per user reviews.
Stay Limit
14 consecutive days, with a possible 14-day extension via written permission from the park manager.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Prairie Dog State Park offers a diverse range of activities, leveraging its natural and historical features. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and cultural programs. One reviewer called it a 'beautiful campground,' highlighting the peaceful ambiance and well-kept grounds.
HikingA 1.4-mile nature trail with interpretive signage allows visitors to explore the park, observe wildlife, and learn about the ecosystem.
FishingSebelius Reservoir is known for excellent fishing, with opportunities to catch black bass, walleye, crappie, and more. Fishing is prohibited in specific areas such as boat ramps and swimming zones.
SwimmingSwimming is permitted in designated areas, although alcohol and glass containers are prohibited. No additional safety measures were detailed.
BikingMountain biking and trail biking options exist, but no information on trail difficulty or terrain is available.
BoatingThe park supports various boating activities, including kayaking, canoeing, and powerboating. Boating regulations, including no-wake zones, are strictly enforced.
Wildlife viewingThe park features a thriving prairie dog colony, and the nature trail offers good opportunities for bird watching and observing other wildlife.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo explicit wildlife hazards mentioned, but seasonal water system shutdown may impact availability.
Active AlertsSeasonal water system shutdown from mid-October to mid-April. Other alerts are not provided.

Weather at Prairie Dog State Park

Reviews

4.6
13 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Prairie Dog State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Campers generally appreciate the park for its peaceful ambiance, convenient facilities, and scenic location. However, some expressed concerns about restroom cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Shaded campsites, easy off-season self-check-in, and the presence of helpful staff were praised. 'Nicely kept camp everything trimmed up,' noted one user.
Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Restroom and shower cleanliness received criticism.
Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Consider visiting during the summer for the full range of facilities, but be prepared for limited water availability during the off-season.
Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Off-season camping is available with self-check-in, but water is shut off during winter. Summer offers access to all amenities.
Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The Shady Rest sites were just as the name implies.' 2. 'Janice the camp host got me checked in fast.' 3. 'Dirty bathrooms and showers.'
Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The 'Shady Rest' area is highlighted for its desirable tree cover and tranquility.
Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user mentions regarding accessibility.
Based on 13 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome but restricted from certain areas such as swimming beaches and public buildings.
Based on 13 reviews

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Last updated February 17, 2026
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