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Prairie Dog State Park
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PRAIRIE DOG STATE PARK
PRAIRIE DOG STATE PARK
13037 State Highway 261
Norton, Kansas   67654

Phone: 785-877-2953
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 1 Reservable cabin, 40 electric/water sites, 18 electric-only sites, and more than 130 primitive sites. Reservable sites are available. A group campground is available in the Branded Cedar area. 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.

The 6,400-acre Norton Wildlife Area offers good prospects for pheasant, waterfowl and rabbits. Both whitetailed and mule deer can be found here, as well as a variety of furbearers.
Swimming
1. Prairie Dog State Park offers a designated swimming beach on the shores of Keith Sebelius Reservoir.
2. No lifeguards are present, so swim at your own risk.
3. Swimming is not allowed in boat ramp areas for safety reasons.
4. The park's sandy beach provides ample space to sunbathe and relax after swimming.
5. Restrooms and picnic tables are conveniently located near the swimming area for visitors' use.

Boating
The park offers a variety of boating options for visitors. It features a large reservoir, Keith Sebelius Lake, where guests can enjoy activities such as sailing and motorboating. There are also two boat ramps available to facilitate easy access to the water. Additionally, fishing boats are available for rent at the marina within the park grounds.
Fishing
Impoundment Type: ReservoirSurface Acres: 2,300Maximum Depth: 42 feetNormal Lake Level: 2304.3 conservation pool

The lake has Motor Boat Access



Fishing Population

Bluegill, Black Bullhead, Channel Catfish, White Crappie, Flathead Catfish, Green Sunfish, Largemouth Bass, Saugeye, Spotted Bass, Walleye, Wiper


Location
Prairie Dog State Park is

Picnicking
Prairie Dog State Park offers numerous picnic shelters, tables and grills. Some areas also have playgrounds for children's entertainment.
Bicycling
Exploring the park on two wheels is possible, but options are limited. There aren't any designated biking trails here.

The terrain can be challenging for cyclists due to its uneven nature and lack of paved paths.

Cyclists should remain cautious as they share roads with motor vehicles within this recreational area.

Remember that safety gear such as helmets and reflective clothing is crucial when cycling in areas shared by cars.

While off-road biking isn't officially sanctioned, some visitors do venture onto hiking trails - proceed at your own risk though!

It's important to note that riding after dark or during poor weather conditions could increase potential hazards significantly.

Always respect wildlife you may encounter while bicycling; maintain a safe distance from animals like prairie dogs.
Birding
The park offers birdwatching opportunities with over 300 species, including waterfowl and birds of prey. Bird checklists are available.

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Directions
Prarie Dog Area OfficeRR 431Norton, KS 67654(785) 877-2953 (Area Office)(785) 628-8614 (Regional Office)

The park entrance is located on US36 highway.

COMING FROM THE EAST:

1. Travel Four miles west of Norton, KS on US36; 2. Then one mile south on K261, park office is located on the east side of the road.

COMING FROM THE WEST:

1. Travel 32 miles east of Oberlin, KS on US36; 2. Then one mile south on K261, park office is located on the east side of the road.

GPS Location:

* 39 deg. 48.755 min north * 099 deg. 57.793 min west

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Kansas
66

Kansas State Parks

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