Prairie Dog State Park

About

Prairie Dog State Park is a prime destination for experiencing the shortgrass prairies of western Kansas, encompassing 1,150 acres on Keith Sebelius Reservoir in Norton County. The park features a thriving prairie dog colony and serves as a gateway to the 6,400-acre Norton Wildlife Area. Historical interpretation is a hallmark here, with two preserved 19th century buildings: the only adobe house in Kansas on its original location (built in the 1890s) and the Hillmon Schoolhouse (1886), both recently renovated with period furnishings. The campground offers varied options for all camping styles. Cedar Ridge Campground provides 10 full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer. Additional utility sites include 52 electric/water sites in Prairie Dog Campground, 21 in Shady Rest, and 6 in Branded Cedar. Over 130 primitive sites spread across multiple campgrounds accommodate tent campers and those seeking a more rustic experience. Four cabins are available year-round, including two modern cabins with full kitchens and bathrooms, and two primitive cabins with basic amenities. WiFi is available at campgrounds with water and electric hookups. Recreational opportunities abound with a 1.4-mile nature trail featuring Story Walk signage, swim beach, public fishing dock, archery range, disc golf course, basketball court, volleyball pit, and horseshoe pits. Keith Sebelius Reservoir is renowned for excellent fishing opportunities, consistently producing black bass, walleye, wiper, crappie, catfish, and saugeye. The adjacent Norton Wildlife Area offers hunting for quail, pheasant, waterfowl, rabbits, whitetail and mule deer.

Directions

From Norton, take Highway 36 west (from the east) or east (from the west), then turn south on Highway 261. The park is located southwest of Norton on the north side of Keith Sebelius Reservoir.