Prairiewood Logo
About Prairiewood
Prairiewood's Willis Prairie

For countless ages, the Flint Hills have sustained life, as an inland sea, as grazing and hunting grounds teeming with bison, and as agricultural land that feeds millions. Envisioned with the purpose of continuing this legacy of connection to life-giving land, Prairiewood is nestled amongst 600 private acres set aside specifically as a tallgrass prairie preserve.

Located just a mile west of Manhattan, Kansas, Prairiewood offers first-class lodging, event spaces, and community programming, all thoughtfully assembled to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Whether an individual or couple looking for a place to rest and renew, family or friends seeking an inspiring retreat, a bride-to-be planning her perfect day, or a board of directors requiring a state-of-the-art meeting room, Prairiewood won’t disappoint. We invite you to come see how the rare privacy, unparalleled service, and stunning beauty of this special place will exceed your highest expectations.

Overlooking Willis Prairie from the backyard of RetreatHouse at sunrise.

In the Beginning

The dream for Prairiewood began nearly 15 years ago. It started with a simple vision for saving some of the native tallgrass prairie in and around Manhattan, Kansas. Along the way, we became increasingly compelled by the idea of using the prairie to provide a place where the values of the land can find their way into the hearts and souls of its visitors — a place where the senses are awakened, perspective is renewed, and imagination is inspired.

Prairiewood's entrance sign at sunrise.

Welcome to Prairiewood

Since opening in January 2010 with a single guest house, we have worked diligently to bring together all the pieces of such a place, by acquiring land, restoring prairie, blazing miles of hiking trails, assembling a team of tremendous individuals — and by creating exquisite lodging, meeting, and event spaces.

Sunrise from the overlook on Willis Prairie.

To be Continued

The story doesn’t end there. As we grow and learn, so too will the vision for where we are headed. We always envisioned our story taking unexpected but delightful turns, turns which bring together our diverse community and celebrate our common love for this unique landscape. In many ways, that transformation is already happening. Known throughout the regions as the premier destination for distinctive and memorable experiences, we have increased public access to our spaces and our preserve in exciting ways.

The fabric of Prairiewood is rich with a group of wonderful individuals, all of whom, in their own way, have helped to make Prairiewood a reality. Whether helping with its inception or simply reserving a stay, the story of Prairiewood has been shaped by those surrounding it. We continue to be grateful for those valued individuals, and we would be honored to have you become a part of our story, too.