Prairie Dog State Park offers pet-friendly campsites near Rexford in northwest Kansas where elevations average around 2,600 feet. The area experiences wide temperature fluctuations, with summer highs often reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Campgrounds in this region typically feature level sites with some offering shade from cottonwood trees that provide relief from the strong Kansas winds.
What to do
Fishing at Norton Reservoir: Prairie Dog State Park provides access to Norton Reservoir where anglers can catch various fish species. According to a visitor at Prairie Dog Campground, "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."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse prairie wildlife. A camper at Sheridan State Fishing Lake reported, "I got to see 2 great blue herons and listen to 2 great horned owls call to each other at night - how awesome!" This free camping location provides excellent opportunities to observe native Kansas wildlife.
Frisbee golf: Several campgrounds offer disc golf courses. One visitor to Oberlin-Sappa State Park noted, "There was a frisbee golf course, plenty of hiking, biking and horse riding trails. I read later there's pond there to fish in." The course provides a recreational option for campers seeking activities beyond typical outdoor pursuits.
What campers like
Quiet, affordable sites: Many campgrounds offer peaceful settings at reasonable rates. At Atwood Lions Club Park, a tent camper reported, "We arrived after dark and called the number on the sign. The friendly attendant told us we could tent camp for free anywhere in the grassy areas by the lake. The campground was quiet and clean."
Lake views: Several campgrounds feature scenic water access. A visitor to Prairie Dog State Park's Cedar Ridge Campground mentioned, "Excellent for large RV's. Pull thru sites with full hookups and overlooking Norton reservoir." These water-adjacent sites provide both scenic views and recreational opportunities.
On-site dining options: Some locations offer food service, eliminating the need to cook. A camper at High Plains Camping shared, "They have a cafe 'Grub n Chug'. Great pizza and beer at a reasonable price." Another visitor noted, "Ordered food from Cap'n Jack's Pub which was delivered to our RV. Food was good pub food!"
What you should know
Weather considerations: The Kansas plains experience extreme weather patterns. According to a camper at Prairie Dog Campground, "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." Plan accordingly with proper shelter and clothing for temperature swings.
Seasonal bugs: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. One camper at Shady Rest Campground warned, "We were literally stuck in our camper and only spent the night and than left. When I did have to go out to take my dogs out to the bathroom, the bugs would fly up my nose and were all over me."
Bathroom maintenance varies: Facility cleanliness differs between campgrounds. At Shady Rest Campground, a visitor 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." Others reported clean facilities at different locations.
Tips for camping with families
Pet safety awareness: When bringing pets to campgrounds near Rexford, watch for hazardous plants. At Kansas Country Inn & RV Park, a camper cautioned, "Watch for the thorny burrs that get all over shoes especially if you have a dog…. Would be very painful for them."
Swimming opportunities: Several parks offer swimming areas for families. A visitor to Prairie Dog Campground simply stated, "Shaded RV spots with hookups. Good swimming." This provides a welcome recreational option during hot Kansas summers.
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds include play areas. A camper at Oberlin-Sappa State Park mentioned, "Beautiful, well maintained grounds... Frisbee golf, playground, lots of open space." These amenities help keep children entertained during camping stays.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Most RV sites in the region offer level parking. At Whistle Stop RV and Antiques, a visitor noted, "Very clean restrooms and showers. Very nice to work with while traveling late at night. We will definitely stop again on our way to Colorado next time!" The convenient highway-adjacent location makes this spot popular for overnight stays.
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds provide complete utility connections. A traveler at High Plains Camping reported, "The camp sites in section 300/400 are spacious with full utilities." These designated areas offer the most comprehensive services for RVers requiring water, electric, and sewer connections.
Wind protection: Seek sheltered sites when possible due to strong Kansas winds. One camper at High Plains Camping observed, "It's super breezy here in the high plains and they've got some trees to help cut it down but it's the high plains!" Positioning RVs strategically can minimize wind exposure and noise.
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