The park is one of the most important resting areas in Europe for migratory birds traveling along the East Atlantic Flyway.
The landscape is shaped by the 'polder' system, where floodwater is intentionally diverted to prevent flooding in downstream urban areas.
It is the only national park in Germany that preserves a river-valley floodplain landscape.
The area is home to the rare European pond turtle, one of the few places in Germany where they still inhabit the wild.
The river Oder serves as both the border between Germany and Poland and the ecological corridor for the park's wildlife.
During peak migration periods, over 100,000 birds can be counted in the park in a single day.
Nationalpark Unteres Odertal is Germany's only national park located within a polder landscape, stretching along the Oder River on the border with Poland. The park protects the last near-natural floodplain in Central Europe, characterized by annually recurring inundations that shape its unique biodiversity. It covers approximately 10,400 hectares of wetlands, meadows, and forests. The area serves as a critical stopover for tens of thousands of migratory birds, particularly tundra swans and bean geese during the spring and autumn. The landscape is artificially maintained through a complex system of dikes, sluices, and dams designed to manage water levels. Visitors access the park primarily through the main information center located near Schwedt. The park is part of a larger transboundary protected area, the Lower Oder Valley International Park.
The elevated dikes near the Criewen village observation tower provide expansive, unobstructed views of the river floodplains.
Bring high-quality binoculars, as the primary wildlife attractions are often located at a significant distance from the trails.
Check the official water level reports before planning a visit, as high water events can close certain trails and paths.
Carry insect repellent, especially during summer months, as the wetland environment supports large mosquito populations.
Do not attempt to traverse flooded areas or bypass barriers; avoid feeding wildlife, as it disrupts natural migration behaviors.
Select hiking and cycling trails may be inaccessible during the spring thaw or high-water periods due to flooding.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive breeding habitats; dogs must be kept on a short leash at all times.
