Lower Oder Valley National Park

Lower Oder Valley National Park, located in northeastern Germany along the border with Poland, lies in the state of Brandenburg. The park stretches along the Oder River and is part of the broader Oder Valley, which also includes parts of Poland. The nearby towns of Schwedt and Gartz offer convenient access, with the larger city of Berlin situated about 90 kilometers to the southwest. The park was officially established in 1995 as Germany’s first riverine national park, aiming to preserve the unique floodplain ecosystem along the Oder River. The park also plays a role in cross-border conservation, collaborating with Poland’s Ujście Warty National Park, which lies just across the river. Parking in the Lower Oder Valley National Park is available at several entry points, including Schwedt and Criewen, the location of the park’s visitor center. There are approximately 10 designated parking areas, with nominal fees charged at some locations. Visitors are encouraged to park only in designated areas to minimize environmental impact. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, particularly in terms of birdlife. Notable species include white storks, cranes, sea eagles, and numerous waterfowl. The Oder River’s floodplains also provide habitat for beavers, otters, and various amphibians and fish species, making it a critical conservation area for these animals. The flora of the park includes large wetland areas, floodplain meadows, and alluvial forests. Common trees include alder, willow, and ash, with unique vegetation thriving in the seasonal flooding zones, such as reeds and sedges. Key features of the park include the Oder River itself, which forms the border with Poland, and the extensive wetlands and dike systems that have shaped the landscape. The park offers scenic walking and cycling paths along the river. Public transport options include buses from nearby towns like Schwedt and Gartz, making it accessible to those without private vehicles. The park is also popular for cycling, with well-maintained trails.