National Parks in Russia

Russia has a total of 64 national parks, covering a combined area of approximately 155,672 square kilometers (60,105 mi²), such as Losiny Ostrov National Park and Alaniya National Park. Below is a list of forty-eight of these parks.

List of National Parks in Russia

Stolby National Park

Stolby National Park, located in the Krasnoyarsk region, is famous for its unique rock formations that tower over the dense Siberian forests. These stone columns, known as "stolby" in Russian, are an impressive spectacle attracting climbers and hikers from around the world. The park also hosts abundant wildlife, including foxes, deer, and a variety of birds, in a natural setting that captivates the senses and awakens adventure in every visitor.

Alkhanai National Park

Located in the Zabaykalsky Krai region, Alkhanai National Park is a natural treasure encompassing vast forests, picturesque valleys, and mighty mountains. Home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including the Siberian tiger and moose, this park offers visitors the chance to explore pristine landscapes and enjoy the tranquility that only untouched nature can provide.

Anyuysky National Park

In the remote Chukotka region, Anyuysky National Park spans vast Arctic plains and rugged coastlines bathed by the Arctic Ocean. Its stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity, including species like the polar bear and gray whale, make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers seeking authentic experiences in one of Russia’s wildest corners.

Bashkortostan National Park

Bashkortostan National Park, located in the Republic of Bashkortostan, is a nature sanctuary encompassing rolling meadows, dense forests, and picturesque rivers. Home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, from the Eurasian lynx to the golden eagle, this park offers unique opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor activities in a naturally diverse and beautiful setting.

Beringia National Park

At the far eastern edge of Russia, Beringia National Park covers a vast area of Arctic tundra and stunning coastal landscapes along the Bering Strait. This park is a living testament to the connection between Asia and America, with a rich natural history that includes species like the ringed seal and caribou. Visitors can explore the wild and pristine beauty of this remote region while learning about its ecological and cultural significance in the global context.

Bikin National Park

Bikin National Park, located in the Primorsky Krai region, is a biodiversity sanctuary encompassing dense primary forests and clear rivers. Home to the Siberian tiger and the Amur leopard, this park offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Siberian taiga while exploring pristine landscapes and discovering the rich wildlife inhabiting this region.

Buzuluksky Bor National Park

Located in the Orenburg region, Buzuluksky Bor National Park is a tranquil oasis hosting pine forests, rolling steppes, and picturesque lakes. With a rich natural and cultural history, this park offers visitors the chance to connect with nature while exploring scenic trails, observing migratory birds, and learning about the importance of conserving the unique ecosystems of the Russian steppe.

Chavash Varmane Bor National Park

Situated in the Republic of Chuvashia, Chavash Varmane Bor National Park is a biodiversity haven protecting extensive oak and maple forests, as well as wetlands and flower-filled meadows. With a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, lynx, and eagles, this park offers visitors the chance to enjoy untouched nature while exploring numerous trails and immersing themselves in the serenity of its natural surroundings.

Chikoy National Park

In the Amur Oblast region, Chikoy National Park captivates with its diverse landscape that includes rugged mountains, dense forests, and winding rivers. Home to iconic species like the Asiatic black bear and the Siberian deer, this park offers visitors the opportunity to venture into the wild nature of Eastern Siberia, where natural beauty meets the thrill of exploration.

Kalevalsky National Park

Located in the Republic of Karelia, Kalevalsky National Park is a natural treasure encompassing vast boreal forests, crystal-clear lakes, and ancient rock formations. Inspired by the Finnish epic Kalevala, this park evokes a sense of mysticism and adventure as visitors explore its winding trails, immerse themselves in the local culture, and marvel at the unparalleled beauty of the Karelia region.

Curonian Spit National Park

Curonian Spit National Park, situated on the border between Lithuania and Russia, is a unique strip of land separating the Baltic Sea from the Curonian Lagoon. With impressive sand dunes, pine forests, and a rich diversity of wildlife, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore spectacular coastal landscapes, discover the cultural history of the region, and enjoy outdoor activities in a naturally beautiful setting.

Kenozyorsky National Park

In the Republic of Komi, Kenozyorsky National Park is a taiga paradise hosting a wide variety of ecosystems, from swamps to dense coniferous forests. Home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including brown bears and moose, this park offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the tranquility of untouched nature while exploring its numerous trails and marveling at the scenic beauty of northern Russia.

Jvalinsky National Park

Located in the region of Karachay-Cherkessia, Jvalinsky National Park is a mountainous paradise encompassing rugged peaks, winding valleys, and picturesque glaciers. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, including the Caucasian leopard and the golden eagle, this park offers visitors the chance to explore stunning alpine landscapes and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Western Caucasus.

Kislovodsk National Park

Located in the Stavropol Krai region, Kislovodsk National Park is an oasis of natural beauty featuring spectacular rock formations, crystal-clear waterfalls, and healing springs. With a rich history as a health and wellness destination, this park offers visitors the chance to relax in unique natural settings, explore scenic trails, and enjoy the serenity that only nature can provide.

Kodar National Park

In the Transbaikalia region, Kodar National Park is a natural treasure encompassing impressive mountainous landscapes, dense coniferous forests, and rushing rivers. Home to a great diversity of wildlife, including the snow leopard and Siberian moose, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the wild nature of Eastern Siberia while immersing themselves in the pristine beauty of its unexplored landscapes.

Koygorodsky National Park

Located in the Republic of Komi, Koygorodsky National Park is a vast territory encompassing extensive boreal forests, winding rivers, and rugged mountains. Home to a diversity of wildlife, from brown bears to wolverines, this park offers visitors the chance to explore pristine landscapes and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of northern Russia while enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and bird watching.

Kytalyk National Park

In the Yakutia region, Kytalyk National Park is a wildlife oasis protecting vast stretches of Arctic tundra and picturesque lakes. With a rich diversity of flora and fauna adapted to the harsh Arctic conditions, this park offers visitors the chance to explore a unique landscape and learn about the fascinating ecology of the region while enjoying activities such as reindeer spotting and aurora borealis viewing.

Ladoga Skerries National Park

Located in the Leningrad region, Ladoga Skerries National Park is an archipelago of rocky and picturesque islands in Lake Ladoga, the largest freshwater lake in Europe. With stunning geological formations and a rich cultural history, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore unique islands, discover ancient settlements, and enjoy water activities in a naturally beautiful setting.

Mariy Chodra National Park

In the Republic of Mari El, Mariy Chodra National Park is a biodiversity sanctuary protecting extensive birch forests, winding rivers, and pristine wetlands. Home to a great variety of wildlife, including beavers and spotted eagles, this park offers visitors the chance to connect with nature while exploring its scenic trails, participating in ecotourism activities, and learning about the traditional Mari culture.

Meshchiora National Park

Located in the Vladimir region, Meshchiora National Park is a natural paradise encompassing dense coniferous forests, flower-filled meadows, and picturesque rivers. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, including moose and martens, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of untouched nature while hiking, bird watching, and engaging in other outdoor activities.

Nechkinsky National Park

Nechkinsky National Park, located in the Kirov region, is a natural refuge encompassing extensive coniferous forests, tranquil rivers, and rolling meadows. With a great diversity of wildlife, including moose and wolverines, this park offers visitors the chance to disconnect from urban life and immerse themselves in the serene beauty of nature while exploring its scenic trails and enjoying outdoor activities.

Nizhnyaya Kama National Park

Situated in the Republic of Tatarstan, Nizhnyaya Kama National Park is a natural treasure encompassing extensive mixed forests, winding rivers, and swampy areas. Home to a rich variety of wildlife, including brown bears and beavers, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the pristine beauty of the Volga region while participating in activities such as canoeing, hiking, and bird watching.

Onezhskoye Pomorye National Park

In the Arkhangelsk region, Onezhskoye Pomorye National Park is a coastal paradise that protects a broad stretch of the White Sea coast, as well as coastal forests and wetlands. With a rich cultural history and unique biodiversity, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore ancient fishing villages, discover Arctic flora and fauna, and enjoy the tranquility of untouched beaches.

Orlovskoye Polesye National Park

Located in the Oryol region, Orlovskoye Polesye National Park is a biodiversity sanctuary protecting extensive pine and spruce forests, as well as numerous lakes and rivers. With a wide variety of wildlife, including wolves and lynxes, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore untouched natural landscapes, participate in ecotourism activities, and learn about the importance of forest ecosystem conservation.

Paanajärvi National Park

In the Republic of Karelia, Paanajärvi National Park is a taiga paradise encompassing dense coniferous forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged hills. Home to a great diversity of wildlife, including bears and wolverines, this park offers visitors the chance to experience the wild beauty of the Karelia region while hiking, fishing, and bird watching in a naturally spectacular setting.

Pleshcheyevo Ozero National Park

Pleshcheyevo Ozero National Park, located in the Yaroslavl region, is a natural treasure protecting Lake Pleshcheyevo and its surroundings. With picturesque landscapes including coniferous forests, flower-filled meadows, and clear waters, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy water activities such as kayaking and swimming, as well as to explore scenic trails and observe local wildlife.

Pribaikalsky National Park

Situated in the Irkutsk region, Pribaikalsky National Park is a biodiversity paradise protecting the lands around Lake Baikal, the world’s largest and deepest freshwater lake. With stunning landscapes including rugged mountains, ancient forests, and crystal-clear waters, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the majesty of Baikal, as well as participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation.

Pripyshminskiye Bory National Park

In the Sverdlovsk region, Pripyshminskiye Bory National Park is a natural refuge protecting coniferous forests and wetlands in the lowlands of the West Siberian Plain. With a wide variety of wildlife, including moose and Arctic foxes, this park offers visitors the chance to explore the pristine beauty of Western Siberia, as well as to participate in activities such as bird watching and fishing.

Prielbrusye National Park

Located in the Republic of Kabardino-Balkaria, Prielbrusye National Park is a mountainous paradise encompassing the majestic peaks of the Caucasus. With landscapes that include snowy summits, green valleys, and impressive glaciers, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy alpine activities such as mountaineering, skiing, and hiking, as well as to explore the rich culture and history of the Caucasus region.

Russian Arctic National Park

Russian Arctic National Park, located in the Yamalo-Nenets region, is a vast territory protecting Arctic ecosystems and the unique wildlife that inhabits them. With landscapes including Arctic tundra, coastal fjords, and the Kara Sea coast, this park offers visitors the chance to experience the beauty and serenity of the Arctic, as well as to learn about the importance of conserving these fragile ecosystems in the context of global climate change.

Russky Sever National Park

Russky Sever National Park, located in the Murmansk region, is a vast territory encompassing a diversity of Arctic landscapes, including tundra, fjords, and rugged mountains. Home to a wide variety of wildlife adapted to the extreme Arctic climate, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the pristine beauty and serenity of Russia’s Arctic region while participating in activities such as bird watching, hiking, and iceberg observation.

Salair National Park

In the Altai Krai region, Salair National Park is a natural paradise protecting extensive coniferous forests, clear rivers, and rugged mountains. With a great diversity of wildlife, including brown bears and lynxes, this park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of Western Siberia while participating in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and rafting.

Samarskaya Luka National Park

Located in the Samara region, Samarskaya Luka National Park is a biodiversity oasis protecting the meanders of the Volga River and its surroundings. With landscapes including cliffs, riparian forests, and rolling steppes, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the natural and cultural beauty of the region while participating in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and visiting ancient settlements.

Samursky National Park

In the Republic of Dagestan, Samursky National Park is a natural refuge protecting deciduous forests, rugged canyons, and the Samur River. Home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Caucasian leopards and mountain goats, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the unique beauty of the Caucasus region while participating in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.

Saylyugemsky National Park

Located in the Altai Republic, Saylyugemsky National Park is a natural paradise protecting the mountainous landscapes of the Altai Range and the Katun River basin. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, including the snow leopard and Siberian ibex, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore stunning alpine landscapes and participate in activities such as trekking, bird watching, and camping in a naturally beautiful setting.

Sebezhsky National Park

Sebezhsky National Park, located in the Pskov region, is a protected area encompassing forests, lakes, and wetlands. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of northwest Russia while exploring scenic trails, bird watching, and engaging in outdoor activities such as kayaking and fishing.

Sengileevskie Mountains National Park

In the Ulyanovsk region, Sengileevskie Mountains National Park is a biodiversity sanctuary protecting the Ulyanovsk mountains and their surroundings. With landscapes including forested mountains, winding rivers, and picturesque waterfalls, this park offers visitors the chance to explore the natural beauty of the region while hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.

Shantar Islands National Park

Situated in the Sea of Okhotsk, Shantar Islands National Park is a remote archipelago protecting diverse coastal landscapes, from sandy beaches to rocky cliffs. With rich marine life, including seals, whales, and seabirds, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore pristine islands, dive, and enjoy the tranquility of the island environment.

Shorski National Park

In the Kemerovo region, Shorski National Park is a natural refuge protecting the boreal forests of the Siberian taiga and crystal-clear mountain rivers. With a great diversity of wildlife, including bears and moose, this park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the pristine beauty of Siberia while engaging in activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching.

Shushensky Bor National Park

Located in the Krasnoyarsk region, Shushensky Bor National Park is a sanctuary of coniferous forests protecting extensive Siberian pine and fir forests. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, this park offers visitors the chance to enjoy the untouched nature of Siberia while exploring scenic trails, participating in ecotourism activities, and learning about the importance of forest ecosystem conservation.

Smolenskoye Poozerye National Park

Smolenskoye Poozerye National Park, located in the Smolensk region, is a protected area encompassing a network of lakes and forests. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of western Russia while exploring scenic trails, bird watching, and participating in activities such as fishing and camping.

Smolny National Park

Situated in the Tver region, Smolny National Park is a biodiversity oasis protecting coniferous forests, clear rivers, and flower-filled meadows. With a rich cultural history and a variety of wildlife, this park offers visitors the chance to explore the untouched nature of northwest Russia while engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and bird watching.

Sochi National Park

In the Krasnodar region, Sochi National Park is a natural paradise encompassing a variety of ecosystems, from the Black Sea to the Caucasus mountains. With impressive landscapes including subtropical forests, rivers, and waterfalls, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, swimming, and skiing while exploring the rich biodiversity of the region.

Taganay National Park

Located in the Chelyabinsk region, Taganay National Park is a mountainous paradise protecting the peaks and valleys of the Southern Urals. With impressive landscapes including rocky cliffs, birch forests, and alpine meadows, this park offers visitors the chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife observation while exploring one of the most scenic places in Russia.

Tarkhankut National Park

On the Crimean Peninsula, Tarkhankut National Park is a protected area encompassing coastal cliffs, sea caves, and clear waters. With rich marine diversity, including dolphins and sea turtles, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy activities such as diving, snorkeling, and kayaking while exploring the natural and cultural beauty of the region.

Tokinsko-Stanovoy National Park

Located in the Khabarovsk region, Tokinsko-Stanovoy National Park is a vast territory protecting a variety of ecosystems, from dense forests to high mountains. With a rich diversity of wildlife, including brown bears and Siberian deer, this park offers visitors the chance to explore the untouched nature of the Russian Far East while engaging in activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching.

Tunkinsky National Park

In the Republic of Buryatia, Tunkinsky National Park is a sanctuary of natural beauty protecting the Tunka mountains and their surroundings. With impressive landscapes including snowy peaks, clear rivers, and alpine meadows, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and hot springs while exploring the rich culture and spirituality of the region.

Udegeyskaya Legenda National Park

Situated in the Primorsky Krai, Udegeyskaya Legenda National Park is a natural refuge protecting primary taiga forests and the rich biodiversity of the region. Home to a wide variety of wildlife, including Siberian tigers and Asiatic black bears, this park offers visitors the opportunity to explore the beauty and tranquility of the Siberian taiga while participating in activities such as hiking, bird watching, and photo safaris.

Ugra National Park

In the Komi-Permyak region, Ugra National Park is a protected area encompassing boreal forests, rivers, and lakes. With a great diversity of flora and fauna, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation while exploring the natural beauty of the region and learning about the indigenous culture of the Ugric peoples.

Valdaysky National Park

Located in the Novgorod region, Valdaysky National Park is a natural treasure protecting Lake Valday and the surrounding forests. With picturesque landscapes that include rolling hills, dense forests, and flower-filled meadows, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and bird watching while exploring the serene beauty of the northwest region of Russia.

Vodlozero National Park

Vodlozero National Park, situated in the Republic of Karelia, is a natural refuge protecting Lake Vodlozero and the surrounding forests. With a rich diversity of wildlife, including moose and bears, this park offers visitors the chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and bird watching while exploring the serene beauty of the boreal taiga.

Yugyd Va National Park

In the Republic of Komi, Yugyd Va National Park is a natural treasure protecting vast expanses of boreal forests and rugged mountains. Home to a great diversity of wildlife, including brown bears and wolverines, this park offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the pristine beauty of Siberia while engaging in outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and camping.

Zabaykalsky National Park

Situated in the Zabaykalsky Krai region, Zabaykalsky National Park is a biodiversity sanctuary protecting the steppe and taiga landscapes of Eastern Siberia. With a wide variety of flora and fauna, including lynxes and bisons, this park offers visitors the chance to explore the untouched nature of the region while engaging in activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and nature photography.

Zavidovo National Park

In the Tver region, Zavidovo National Park is a natural oasis protecting coniferous forests, rivers, and lakes. With a rich diversity of wildlife, including moose and beavers, this park offers visitors the chance to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating while exploring the natural beauty and tranquility of the region.

Land of the Leopard National Park

In the Primorsky Krai region, Land of the Leopard National Park (Национальный парк «Земля леопарда» in Russian) is a protected area that hosts a population of Amur leopards, an endangered species. With landscapes that include dense forests and rugged mountains, this park offers visitors the unique opportunity to participate in leopard conservation programs as well as enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching.

Zigalga National Park

Zigalga National Park is located in the Sakha Republic, in Eastern Siberia. This park protects vast expanses of Siberian taiga, with a diversity of flora and fauna adapted to the harsh conditions of northern Russia. Visitors can explore impressive landscapes, spot animals such as moose and bears, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing in its numerous lakes and rivers.

Zov Tigra National Park

Situated in the Primorsky Krai region, Zov Tigra National Park is a wildlife sanctuary, especially for the Siberian tiger, also known as the Amur tiger. With dense forests and rugged mountains, this park offers visitors the unique opportunity to spot tigers in their natural habitat, in addition to enjoying activities such as hiking and bird watching.

Zyuratkul National Park

In the Chelyabinsk region, Zyuratkul National Park is known for its mountain landscapes and its namesake alpine lake. With coniferous forests, alpine meadows, and unique rock formations, this park offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation, as well as enjoying the serenity and natural beauty of the Southern Urals.

History of the Russian National Parks System

Until the 1960s, Russia only had nature reserves and protected areas established during the Soviet era. With international support and the experience of other European countries with national parks, as well as other global entities, the creation of protected areas for tourism and conservation began. In 1961, Soviet geographers led by Innokenti Gerasimov visited the United States, experiencing Yellowstone and the Great Smoky Mountains National Parks.

Inspired by this experience, Gerasimov proposed in 1965 the creation of the Baikal Natural Park and another at Lake Seliger. In 1966, an article on the need to establish a system of natural parks in the USSR was published. The first Russian national parks, such as Sochi and Losiny Ostrov National Park, date back to 1983.

According to the Russian law on protected areas, national parks are intended for nature conservation, environmental education, and scientific research, allowing regulated tourism. Each park has zones with various functions, such as strictly protected areas, recreational zones, and areas for controlled economic activities. National parks are managed by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment of Russia.

Location Map of National Parks in Russia