Prairie Dog Campground, near Norton, Kansas, is a solid choice for campers looking to enjoy the great outdoors with a touch of comfort. This spot offers a mix of tent sites, RV accommodations, and even cabins for those who prefer a little more luxury while still soaking in the natural beauty.

The campground is known for its spacious sites, many of which come with full hookups, making it a breeze for larger RVs. Visitors have highlighted the beautiful views of the Norton Reservoir and the surrounding grasslands, perfect for wildlife watching. As one camper noted, “This place has everything for any State Park you could ask,” from fishing opportunities to the chance to spot deer and coyotes in the distance.

Amenities here include drinking water, showers, and picnic tables, ensuring you have what you need for a comfortable stay. The atmosphere is generally peaceful, with shaded spots that provide a nice break from the sun. While some campers mentioned the presence of ticks due to the wildlife, the overall experience remains enjoyable, with many returning for the serene environment and friendly vibe. 

If you're up for a little adventure, the nearby lake offers fishing and boating opportunities, while the expansive open areas are great for a leisurely stroll or just kicking back and enjoying the scenery. Whether you're passing through or planning a longer stay, Prairie Dog Campground has plenty to offer for a memorable outdoor experience.

A prime place to experience the shortgrass prairies of western Kansas, Prairie Dog State Park occupies 1,150 acres on the shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir in Norton County. The park is home to a thriving prairie dog colony and is the site of the last remaining adobe house in Kansas. The renovated adobe house was built on the site in the early 1890's.

Campsites at Prairie Dog include 4 reservable cabins (two modern and two primitive), 69 electric/water sites, 12 electric-only sites, and more than 130 primitive sites. Shower and restroom facilities are conveniently located, as are two RV dump stations. A 1.4- mile nature trail complete with interpretive signage is a great way to explore the park and observe wildlife.

Historical interpretation is a hallmark of this park. Two vintage 19th century buildings are preserved here, including a one room school and renovated adobe house. Sebelius Reservoir is well known for its excellent fishing opportunities. In recent years, anglers have found productive fishing for black bass, walleye, wiper, crappie, catfish and saugeye.

You must be 18 or older to rent a cabin or campsite.

There are no sewer sites at Prairie Dog State Park. We have two dump stations conveniently located in the park.  
  
Subject to regulations and posted notices, any individual over 21 may possess, consume, or drink alcoholic liquor. Kegs and party balls are strictly prohibited.  
  
A current motor vehicle permit is required for every motorized vehicle entering the state park. Motor vehicles are restricted to maintained roads and parking areas only. ATV/non-licensed vehicle use is prohibited in the state park.  
  
Camping is allowed only in designated areas and is subject to restrictions as posted. All campers and camping units are limited to a stay of not more than 14 consecutive days although a 14-day extension may be obtained with written permission from the park manager. A five-day absence is required before returning to the park to camp again. Any property left unused or unoccupied for 48 hours is subject to removal.  
  
Fires are allowed in fireplaces, fire rings, and cooking grills. Fires must be completely extinguished prior to leaving the area.  
  
Swimming is allowed in designated areas. Liquor and beer are prohibited on swimming beaches or in waters designated by buoys or other markers as swimming areas. For other beverages, only shatterproof containers are allowed.  
  
Pets must always be restrained by a camper, cage, hand-held leash, or tethered chain no longer than 10 feet. They are not allowed on swimming beaches or swimming areas that are delineated by buoys or other markers or in public buildings or structures. Dogs participating in authorized activities or assisting the visually or hearing impaired are not subject to these restrictions.  
  
A special event permit is required for any event involving entrance fees, exclusive use of an area, sales, organized competition, amplified sound, or reservation of a specific site or facility. Check with the park office for details.  
  
Fishing is prohibited on boat ramps, courtesy docks, swimming beaches, and in swimming areas marked with buoys. In state parks, fish may only be cleaned at designated fish cleaning stations or other locations as posted.  
  
Boats may not be operated within 200 feet of any area posted specifically for swimming and delineated by markers. No-wake speeds are required within 200 feet of a boat ramp, boat dock. Vessels left unattended at courtesy docks are subject to removal.  
  
Litter must be put in trash containers, if provided. Where containers are not provided, park users must carry their trash out with them.  
  
Digging holes, removing or defacing geological formations, archeological relics or ruins, or vegetation (except for noncommercial use of edible wild plants, wild fruits, nuts, or fungi) is prohibited.  
  
Quiet hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. Actions which alarm, anger, or disturb others are prohibited. Generators can not be used during quiet hours. Failure to comply may result in expulsion from the park.  
  
The discharge of gray water on the ground is prohibited. Prairie Dog State Park has a seasonal water system which is usually shut off in mid-October and turned back on in mid-April. There is no water available in the park during that time. Primitive cabin renters, please take note of the no water months. All cabin renters must contact the office 48 hours prior to your arrival to obtain the key code. Please contact the office for current information.

Prairie Dog Campground — Prairie Dog State Park

Norton is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Norton is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Norton camping trip.

Norton

The Best Camping Near Norton, Kansas

Super flat landscape, very short walking trail, main attraction is fishing, less wildlife than I expected. Quite a few campsites to choose from, some with more trees than others. We chose a primitive one. Also some new modern cabins. Ok place to stop over, I wouldn’t return but others seemed happy with it. And yes, you will definitely see prairie dogs :) 


Ok, not too exciting 

cute

There are a number of loops here, we chose one with a lot of trees. There are some without water (fyi) and some that don’t allow RVs.

Yay: Lots of fishing, very short “trail” but nice for just simple relaxing on your road trip.

Nay: pretty much only prairie dogs to see here...

Surprise: crazy storms rolling over the plains! The caretakers were very nice and had recommendations for all kinds of things along our route (including amazing pie).

Simple State Park 

This campground is beautiful and spacious, and it is fun to watch the deer wander around, but with deer come ticks. We camp in many places and have seldom seen so many ticks in one place.

Peaceful, except for the ticks!

Fantastic state Park with full hookups... Beach, fishing and a delightful small City of prairie dogs to entertain the kids for hours

Cute campground

Stayed here two nights in primitive site under a tree worked very well . But all services are there . Popular for fishing weekends. KS parks folk are organized and place is tip-top ! Good location off route 36 . Thanks for a nice stay

Nice state campground 

Shaded RV spots with hookups. Good swimming

Quiet camping

We stayed in Prairie Dog State Park for one night on our way back home from Colorado and were pleasantly surprised with what a nice park this was.  We stayed in a primitive site.  The sites were spacious and had a wonderful shelter!  The vault toilet, however didnt look like it had been swept in awhile as it had a LOT of bug carcasses.  But otherwise a nice place to stay.  Something for everyone, tents, RVs, campers.  Beautiful views! 

Pleasantly Surprised!

Camping for anyone arriving at anytime. Don’t expect the best when arriving late, but most of you will have reservations, right? Then you will have the best. (Pause; Coyotes calling) this place has everything for any State Park you could ask. Expansive open grasslands a lake full of fish and fowl. Turkeys and whitetail deer and the coyotes call in the distance. A photographer could get lost in the pure wilderness available in the prairie. I’ve visited here during every season. The heat and bugs of mid July to the frozen autumn morings, always beautiful and teaming with wildlife. A great place to stay no matter your style. Just please be quiet, Mother Nature is listening. 

A Pure Gem

Excellent for large RV’s.  Pull thru sites with full hookups and overlooking Norton reservoir

Photos of Prairie Dog Campground — Prairie Dog State Park

Real photos from real campers