Prairie Dog State Park

Prairie Dog State Park is a 1,150-acre protected area along Keith Sebelius Reservoir featuring trails and multiple camping zones throughout its landscape. The park combines natural grassland habitat with recreational facilities and restored historic structures.

A one-room schoolhouse from 1886 marks early settlement in the area, while an adobe house from the 1890s represents the last remaining example of this construction type in Kansas. Both structures document how pioneers adapted to the grassland environment during that era.

The park hosts a working prairie dog colony where visitors can observe these social rodents in their natural habitat, and the restored schoolhouse from 1886 tells stories of early settlers who built communities in this region.

The park provides over 190 camping locations ranging from electric sites with water hookups to primitive spots throughout the grounds. Bring water and sun protection for daytime visits since shade is limited across the open grassland terrain.

A thriving prairie dog colony established during the 1980s now inhabits designated zones where visitors can observe their complex burrow systems and social behaviors. The reintroduction program demonstrates how grassland conservation efforts bring wildlife back to restored habitats.

Location: Norton County

Website: https://ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/Prairie-Dog

GPS coordinates: 39.80690,-99.95140

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:45