The lake was formed in 1932 by a dam and was expanded in 1982 to improve water storage and flood control.
It is one of the few places in Europe where water buffalo are still raised, with herds often seen grazing in the shallow waters.
The site is a critical nesting habitat for the endangered Dalmatian pelican, which is the largest of all pelican species.
The artificial construction of the lake led to the creation of a unique delta where the Strymon River flows into the basin.
The park's biodiversity is protected under the European Natura 2000 network.
Kerkini Lake National Park is a man-made wetland created by the damming of the Strymon River, serving as a critical Ramsar Convention protected site. It functions as a vital stopover for migratory birds traveling between the Aegean Sea and the Balkans. The ecosystem supports over 300 bird species, including significant populations of Dalmatian pelicans and cormorants. The lake's water levels fluctuate seasonally, which influences the distribution of wildlife and the accessibility of shorelines. A population of water buffalo, introduced historically to the region, remains a distinct feature of the local landscape. The surrounding riparian forests, primarily composed of willow trees, provide essential nesting grounds. It is a major center for ecotourism in Northern Greece, balancing agricultural irrigation needs with wildlife conservation. The park integrates the artificial lake with the surrounding Kerkini mountain range and the Krousia mountains.
The western embankment of the dam, which provides a panoramic view of the lake against the backdrop of Mount Belles.
Rent a traditional flat-bottomed boat (plasta) to access areas of the wetland unreachable by foot.
Bring high-quality binoculars or a spotting scope, as wildlife often remains at a distance from observation paths.
Visit the information center in Kerkini village before heading to the shoreline to check current water levels and bird activity reports.
Do not attempt to walk on the muddy lake banks during or immediately after rainfall as they become extremely unstable.
Maintain silence and keep a significant distance from bird nesting colonies to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
