Netflix is set to reboot Little House on the Prairie this July, promising a fresh take that stays closer to Laura Ingalls Wilder's original novels. For longtime fans of the beloved Michael Landon-led series, this might feel like a departure, but it's also the perfect excuse to revisit the classic episodes that made the show a timeless treasure.
Known for its heartwarming Midwestern storytelling, Little House on the Prairie blended traditional family values with a touch of Americana that still resonates today. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer curious about the hype, these episodes capture the magic of Walnut Grove. Here are the best Little House on the Prairie episodes to watch before the Netflix reboot arrives.
10. "Country Girls" (Season 1, Episode 2)
This early episode sets the stage for one of TV's most iconic rivalries. Laura (Melissa Gilbert) and Mary (Melissa Sue Anderson) meet their match in Nellie Oleson (Alison Arngrim), who wastes no time belittling them as "country girls." Meanwhile, Caroline (Karen Grassle) struggles to keep her cool around Nellie's mother, Harriett (Katherine MacGregor). It's classic Little House—the Ingalls take the high road while the Olesons push every button, leaving viewers both frustrated and entertained.
9. "A Harvest of Friends" (Season 1, Episode 1)
The series premiere introduces the Ingalls family as they settle near Walnut Grove. Directed by Michael Landon, this hour-long episode establishes Charles Ingalls as the hardworking, morally upright patriarch. We meet the Olesons, Reverend Alden, Doc Baker, and Lars Hanson, all of whom welcome the family—though not without some friction. It's a warm, nostalgic start that sets the tone for the entire series.
8. "The Collection" (Season 3, Episode 10)
Johnny Cash guest stars as Caleb Hodgekiss, an ex-con posing as a preacher who charms the town after Reverend Alden falls ill. June Carter Cash appears as his wife, and both bring their musical talents to the episode. While Little House didn't rely on guest stars, this one feels like a natural fit—Cash's presence adds a layer of authenticity and entertainment. It's a fun, slightly offbeat entry that showcases the show's versatility.
7. "The Richest Man in Walnut Grove" (Season 2, Episode 1)
Laura and Nellie's feud reaches a boiling point when Nellie mocks Charles for smelling like manure after he takes a dirty job to support his family. Laura's response? A well-aimed punch to Nellie's nose. This episode balances Laura's insecurities with Charles' determination, culminating in a powerful speech where Laura declares, "Hardworking folks only smell bad to folks who have nothing to do but stick their noses in the air." It's a defining moment for Laura's character.
6. "School Mom" (Season 1, Episode 9)
When Miss Beadle is injured, Caroline steps in as a substitute teacher. She faces a tough challenge with student Abel McKay, who is humiliated by Mrs. Oleson. Caroline's patience and determination shine as she helps Abel overcome his struggles. This episode also features a Bonanza reunion of sorts, as Dirk Blocker (who plays Abel) is the son of Dan Blocker, Landon's former co-star.
5. "The Legacy" (Season 8, Episode 14)
This creative episode jumps to the 1980s, where a young couple buys an antique table with the initials "CI" carved into it. Through flashbacks, we see how Charles Ingalls' legacy endures a century later. It's a poignant exploration of memory and family, offering a unique perspective on the show's themes. For fans of time-jumping storytelling, this is a standout.
These episodes represent the best of Little House on the Prairie—heartfelt, dramatic, and full of the values that made the show a cultural touchstone. Whether you're revisiting Walnut Grove or discovering it for the first time, they're the perfect primer for Netflix's upcoming reboot.
