The area is formed by a 'Rheinschlinge,' a geographical loop created by the river's historical meanders.
Over 1,000 trees in the reserve are traditional pollard willows, specifically managed to maintain the landscape's historical character.
The reserve is part of the EU-wide Natura 2000 network of protected areas.
It contains several 'Altrhein' (old Rhine) arms that are disconnected from the main river flow but support unique aquatic ecosystems.
The meadows are still maintained by traditional grazing to prevent the encroachment of scrubland.
The reserve acts as a natural carbon sink due to its extensive wetlands and alluvial forests.
Urdenbacher Kämpe is a 316-hectare nature reserve situated within a large, natural loop of the Rhine River south of Düsseldorf. It represents one of the last remaining active floodplains in the region, characterized by its traditional orchard meadows and riparian forests. The landscape serves as an important retention area for high water, intentionally allowed to flood during peak river levels. Historically, the area was shaped by shifting river currents, creating fertile soil that supported agricultural usage for centuries. Today, it features a network of hiking and cycling paths that traverse grasslands and wooded corridors. It is a designated bird sanctuary, providing vital habitat for rare species like the lapwing and the common kingfisher. The area is managed to preserve its biodiversity and ancient pollard willow structures. It remains a rare example of an undeveloped lowland river ecosystem in a densely populated industrial region.
The elevated paths near the old river arms provide the best views of the pollard willow rows and the sweeping river landscape.
Bring binoculars as the open landscape and water features are prime locations for birdwatching.
Carry insect repellent if visiting during summer months, especially near the river banks.
Check the local water levels online before visiting during rainy seasons to ensure paths are not flooded.
Attempting to cross the meadows during or immediately after heavy rains, as the floodplain is designed to hold water.
Paths may be temporarily closed or impassable during high-water events on the Rhine.
Stay strictly on marked paths to protect nesting birds and sensitive flora; keep dogs on a leash at all times.
