Prairie Dog State Park offers varied camping options near Norton Reservoir with sites ranging from primitive to full-hookup. The campground consists of multiple loops including Shady Rest, Cedar Ridge, and Prairie Dog, allowing campers to select locations based on shade preference or reservoir views. Visitors can expect seasonal challenges including intense summer insect activity and significant weather variations across seasons. The park serves as a convenient stopover for travelers on Highway 36 with both reservable and first-come sites available.
What to do
Wildlife photography opportunities: Prairie Dog State Park houses numerous prairie dog towns where visitors can observe these social creatures in their natural habitat. The park also attracts diverse wildlife throughout different seasons. As one camper noted, "Turkeys and whitetail deer and the coyotes call in the distance. A photographer could get lost in the pure wilderness available in the prairie" (Prairie Dog Campground).
Water recreation: Norton Reservoir provides fishing, boating, and swimming options during warmer months. The lake offers good fishing conditions and a designated swimming area. According to a visitor, "Fantastic state Park with full hookups... Beach, fishing and a delightful small City of prairie dogs to entertain the kids for hours" (Prairie Dog Campground).
Outdoor activities: Beyond water recreation, the park features hiking, biking, and disc golf. A recent visitor commented, "This place has swimming, a small hike, your choice of camping location, a frisbee golf course and miles one could hike or bike. I think it is kind of a jewel in the Kansas system" (Shady Rest Campground).
What campers like
Spacious camping areas: The campgrounds offer well-spaced sites with various amenities depending on the loop selected. A reviewer mentioned, "The sites were spacious and had a wonderful shelter! The vault toilet, however didn't look like it had been swept in awhile as it had a LOT of bug carcasses. But otherwise a nice place to stay" (Prairie Dog Campground).
Quiet atmosphere: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful setting for overnight stays. One RVer noted, "What a great place to get off the road for the night. Don't come here looking for amenities, just a quiet place to stay. 50A service, great water pressure and sewer" (Castle Rock RV Park).
Seasonal diversity: The park offers different experiences throughout the year, with each season bringing unique wildlife viewing and landscape changes. A frequent visitor shared, "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."
What you should know
Insect activity: Ticks and flying insects can be problematic during certain seasons, particularly after rainfall or in summer months. One camper warned, "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" (Prairie Dog Campground).
Basic facilities: While the park offers amenities, visitors should adjust expectations regarding maintenance and facility quality. A visitor mentioned, "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 considerations: The open plains location means exposure to rapid weather changes, including strong storms. One camper experienced, "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
Choose camping loops wisely: Different loops offer varying levels of shade and amenities. As one visitor observed, "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."
Consider shoulder seasons: For a more comfortable experience with fewer insects, consider visiting in spring or fall. A camper reported, "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, I had my section to myself" (Shady Rest Campground).
Prepare for weather fluctuations: Kansas plains weather can change rapidly, so pack for variable conditions even during short stays. The open landscape provides little shelter from wind and storms.
Tips from RVers
Cedar Ridge loop recommended: RVs will find suitable accommodations in the Cedar Ridge area with reservoir views. A recent visitor noted, "Excellent for large RV's. Pull thru sites with full hookups and overlooking Norton reservoir" (Cedar Ridge Campground).
Utility hookups vary: Check specific campground loop amenities before booking as water, electric, and sewer connections differ between areas. For primitive sites, a communal dump station is available within the park.
Level sites available: Despite the prairie terrain, most RV sites are relatively level and accessible. One RVer shared, "Stayed here two nights in primitive site under a tree worked very well. But all services are there. Popular for fishing weekends."
