Prairie dog town - Norton, KS
Prairie Dog Town in Norton, KS is a unique dog park experience that combines natural prairie dog habitats with pet-friendly trails and scenic views. This dog park in Norton, Kansas offers a spacious 40-acre area where visitors can observe prairie dogs in their natural environment from a respectful distance, making it a fascinating spot for dog owners and nature lovers alike. The park is ideal for families with children, providing a safe and engaging outdoor space for kids and pets to enjoy together.
The park features convenient amenities such as indoor bathrooms and picnic tables, perfect for a day out with your furry friends. While the prairie dogs are not tame and prefer to keep their distance, visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and the nearby loop trail for dog-friendly hiking. Prairie Dog Town is a great destination for those seeking a blend of wildlife observation and pet-friendly outdoor activities in Norton, KS.
FAQ for Prairie dog town in Norton Kansas:
- Are restrooms available for owners? Yes, the facility has an indoor bathroom available for visitors.
- Is there shade or shelter available? Yes, there are picnic tables and sculptures near the area next to the bathrooms which likely provide some shelter or shaded spots.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, picnic tables are available for eating and seating needs at the park.
- Is there a playground or activities for kids nearby? Yes, the park is described as a fun and unique place for kids and adults, with various art pieces and sculptures for interesting exploration.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, there is a loop trail nearby along with a nature walk close to the park area.
- Is the park open year-round? While not explicitly stated, prairie dogs do not hibernate but are not active below 40 degrees, implying the park is accessible year-round but activity varies by season.
- Are picnics or BBQs allowed? There are picnic tables and trash cans available, indicating picnics are welcomed.
- Are there staff or rangers present at the park? Yes, a park ranger was mentioned by a visitor who spoke with one on the phone.
- Are aggressive dogs allowed at the park? This park is a natural prairie dog habitat and not a typical dog park; the prairie dogs are not tame and may be scared by dogs, so it is recommended to stay in your car or keep dogs away from the animals.
Reviews
It is such a great place to walk/run/bike, play soccer, baseball, basketball, football, tennis, or pickleball, very scenic, lots of birds, occasionally there’s a food vendor shack, and lots of sports activities. There’s a 1 mile route around the perimeter to walk, run, or bike.
Between the park and the loop trail, maybe only 50 yards away, there are burrowing owls!
This is not a zoo! The prairie dogs are not tame or even accepting of humans being very close. But if you stay in your car and sit quietly for a while (give it 20 minutes at least) they will go back to doing their thing. Bring a zoom lens for your camera or binoculars. You can see them scurrying around with the naked eye but it will be more satisfying with a zoom lens.It’s about 40 acres or so (my guess) with about 300 prairie dogs, according to a park ranger I spoke with on the phone. They do not hibernate but will not likely be out and active unless it’s over 40 degrees.
5 stars
5 stars
It’s cool. Dogs won’t let you get close, but it’s still interesting. Pretty area, and lots or pleasant nature sounds, at least in early May. Went to the nature walk after, it’s a walk. Perfectly fine, not particularly different than others in Kansas.