Prairie Dog State Park offers developed camping options surrounding Norton Reservoir. The park contains 80 individual sites across multiple camping areas with varying levels of amenities. Glamping accommodations near Kirwin, Kansas include luxury cabins at several locations within 30 miles of town. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F and cold winters, making spring and fall the preferred camping seasons.
What to do
Wildlife viewing: Prairie Dog Campground maintains a thriving prairie dog colony where visitors can observe these social animals in their natural habitat. "Fantastic state Park with full hookups... Beach, fishing and a delightful small City of prairie dogs to entertain the kids for hours," notes one visitor to Prairie Dog Campground.
Fishing: Norton Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities with multiple access points around the shoreline. One camper at Patterson Harbor Marina shared, "We've been camping at Patterson Harbor for the past 15 years off and on... The beaches are nice and there is a marina which has bait, some food and supplies."
Photography: The prairie landscape offers exceptional photography opportunities, particularly during golden hour. According to a visitor at Prairie Dog Campground, "Turkeys and whitetail deer and the coyotes call in the distance. A photographer could get lost in the pure wilderness available in the prairie."
Swimming: Several camping areas feature swimming beaches with gradual entries suitable for families. "Shaded RV spots with hookups. Good swimming," notes a reviewer about Prairie Dog State Park.
What campers like
Historical significance: The C2T Ranch and Campground combines camping with historical interest. "This place is an incredible continuously working Ranch since 1884. It is also the site of the first recorded Buffalo Soldier conflict out of Fort Hays (25 miles away). So history? Check!" remarks one camper.
Spacious sites: Many campsites throughout the region provide ample space between neighbors. A visitor to Shady Rest Campground mentioned, "I had my section to myself. This place has swimming, a small hike, your choice of camping location, a frisbee golf course and miles one could hike or bike."
Shelter structures: Some primitive sites feature covered picnic areas that provide shade and weather protection. According to one visitor at Prairie Dog State Park, "We stayed in a primitive site. The sites were spacious and had a wonderful shelter!"
Quiet environment: Fall and winter visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful atmosphere. A camper noted, "I've been here twice now. Once in July and now at the very end of Oct. Better in Oct. No ticks or bugs and frankly of all the camping locations, there is a number of different choices."
What you should know
Seasonal insect considerations: Mosquitoes and ticks can be problematic during summer months. One camper at Cheyenne Campground advised, "I grew up here, stopped going when it became a party haven filled with drama, recently gave it a second chance and could not be happier I did so. It has really been cleaned up in all aspects."
Primitive camping restrictions: Some camping areas have specific regulations regarding RV access. "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," reports a visitor to Shady Rest Campground.
Bathroom maintenance: Cleanliness of facilities varies seasonally and by location. A visitor to Shady Rest noted, "Bathrooms need work or at least someone that cleans them at least daily. The park is nice but the bathrooms are embarrassing 26 dollars a night."
Weather preparedness: The open plains landscape experiences dramatic weather patterns. One camper mentioned, "Surprise: crazy storms rolling over the plains! The caretakers were very nice and had recommendations for all kinds of things along our route."
Tips for camping with families
Prairie dog viewing spots: Children particularly enjoy observing the prairie dog colonies. Set up chairs at a respectful distance and bring binoculars for best viewing. One camper at Prairie Dog State Park shared, "Fantastic state Park with full hookups... Beach, fishing and a delightful small City of prairie dogs to entertain the kids for hours."
Insect prevention: Families should bring adequate tick prevention supplies during summer months. "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," cautions a visitor to Prairie Dog Campground.
Swimming beaches: Norton Reservoir offers designated swimming areas with gradual entries suitable for younger children. "Shaded RV spots with hookups. Good swimming," notes a reviewer about facilities at Prairie Dog State Park.
Off-season benefits: Consider visiting in fall when insects are minimal and temperatures moderate. "I've been here twice now. Once in July and now at the very end of Oct. Better in Oct. No ticks or bugs," confirms a camper at Prairie Dog State Park.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. "Excellent for large RV's. Pull thru sites with full hookups and overlooking Norton reservoir," advises a visitor to Prairie Dog Campground.
Marina access: Some RV sites provide convenient boat launch and marina proximity. A visitor to Patterson Harbor noted, "The sites include electric and water and are on gravel sites. The beaches are nice and there is a marina which has bait, some food and supplies."
Dump station locations: While not all camping loops have sewer connections, dump stations are available within Prairie Dog State Park. "No sewer, but dump station in park," confirmed one RVer at Shady Rest Campground.
