Poland has 23 national parks, occupying 1% of its territory and spread across almost all regions of the country, offering a surprising variety of protected areas full of nature.
The oldest Polish national parks, formally established in 1932, include Pieninski National Park (near Krakow) and Bialowieza National Park (260 km from Warsaw), which were royal hunting grounds for centuries with restricted access for others. The Bialowieza National Park is of universal importance as it is the natural habitat of the European bison.
On the other hand, the most recent one, Warta Delta (Ujscie Warty) in the Wielkopolska region, is a stopover point for migratory birds heading to Southern Europe in autumn.
Biebrzanski National Park is the largest, protecting the largest marshland areas in Central Europe and its waterfowl. Similarly, Narew River National Park is the second in the world where the river course resembles a braid when viewed from the air. Additionally, there are only two "jungles" in the immediate proximity of a large city: one in Nigeria and another in Warsaw, protected by Kampinoski National Park. Among the most popular and visited are Tatra National Park, Karkonoski National Park, and Slowinski National Park, with its famous moving dunes.
Content
- 1 List of National Parks in Poland
- 1.1 Białowieża National Park
- 1.2 Ojców National Park
- 1.3 Tatra National Park
- 1.4 Kampinos National Park
- 1.5 Pieniny National Park
- 1.6 Karkonosze National Park
- 1.7 Biebrza National Park
- 1.8 Bieszczady National Park
- 1.9 Wolin National Park
- 1.10 Wielkopolska National Park
- 1.11 Wigry National Park
- 1.12 Babia Góra National Park
- 1.13 Bory Tucholskie National Park
- 1.14 Drawa National Park
- 1.15 Gorce National Park
- 1.16 Table Mountains National Park
- 1.17 Magura National Park
- 1.18 Narew National Park
- 1.19 Polesie National Park
- 1.20 Roztocze National Park
- 1.21 Slowinski National Park
- 1.22 Swietokrzyski National Park
- 1.23 Ujście Warty National Park
- 2 Geographical Location Map of National Parks in Poland
List of National Parks in Poland
Poland is home to an impressive diversity of flora and fauna. The national parks of Poland have their own charm and various natural attractions. From the Tatra Mountains to the extensive wetlands of Biebrza National Park, there is a destination for every nature and outdoor enthusiast in where to enjoy the best European nature.
Białowieża National Park
The Białowieża National Park is a unique natural treasure in Europe, home to the last primary virgin forest of the European plain. Recognized for its exceptional biodiversity, it hosts a population of European bison as well as a variety of rare and endangered flora and fauna species. Visitors can explore its dense forests, rich in history and mystery, while enjoying activities such as hiking, bird watching, and tram rides.
Ojców National Park
Located in the Lesser Poland region, the Ojców National Park captivates with its impressive karst landscape, characterized by rocky cliffs and deep canyons. It offers opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring caves, such as the Basement Cave, a unique experience in Polish nature.
Tatra National Park
Situated in southern Poland, Tatra National Park is famous for its mighty mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and rich biodiversity. Ideal for hikers and nature lovers, this park offers unparalleled panoramic views and the chance to observe unique flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
Kampinos National Park
Kampinos National Park, on the outskirts of Warsaw, surprises with its diverse landscapes, ranging from pine forests to swamps and wetlands. It is a tranquil refuge for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, with numerous hiking and cycling routes to explore its natural beauty.
Situated on the border between Poland and Slovakia, Pieniny National Park offers picturesque landscapes of rugged mountains, deep gorges, and the mighty Dunajec River. Known for its spectacular rock formation of the Three Crowns, it is a paradise for hikers, rafters, and bird watchers in an impressive natural setting.
Pieniny National Park
Pieniny National Park, located in southern Poland, is known for its impressive gorges and rock formations. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the mountains and the Dunajec River, which winds between steep cliffs. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, and bird watching in this picturesque natural environment.
Karkonosze National Park
Karkonosze National Park captivates with its towering mountains, including Poland’s highest peak, Sněžka. Home to a unique diversity of flora and fauna, this park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Its waterfalls, glacial lakes, and coniferous forests offer an impressive setting for exploration.
Biebrza National Park
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the largest wetlands in Central Europe at Biebrza National Park. This natural sanctuary hosts abundant wildlife, including numerous species of waterfowl. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the tranquil rivers, bird watching, and walks through pristine landscapes.
Bieszczady National Park
Bieszczady National Park is a haven of tranquility and wild beauty in the southeastern mountains of Poland. With its vast expanses of forests, alpine meadows, and rugged peaks, it offers a refuge for rare species of plants and animals. Hiking enthusiasts can explore a network of winding trails that traverse stunning mountainous landscapes.
Wolin National Park
Wolin National Park, located on the Baltic Sea coast, enchants with its steep cliffs, ancient forests, and golden sandy beaches. Home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including elk and sea eagles, this park is ideal for bird watching and relaxation in the pristine coastal nature.
Wielkopolska National Park
Wielkopolska National Park, in western Poland, is a natural treasure that hosts extensive forests, meadows, and wetlands. Its diverse landscapes offer a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, making the park a perfect destination for bird watching and serene nature walks.
Wigry National Park
Wigry National Park, situated in the Podlasie lake region, impresses with its landscape of crystal-clear lakes, ancient forests, and historic monasteries. Visitors can enjoy activities such as kayaking on tranquil lakes, hiking through forest trails, and exploring the park’s rich wildlife.
Babia Góra National Park
Babia Góra National Park, in the western Carpathians, is a sanctuary of untouched nature with rugged peaks and alpine meadows. With its unique ecosystem, the park is home to a variety of plant and animal species, including the famous Carpathian wild horses. It is an ideal destination for hiking and wildlife observation.
Bory Tucholskie National Park
Bory Tucholskie National Park, in northern Poland, is an oasis of ancient forests, crystal-clear lakes, and rich biodiversity. Its extensive pine and beech forests provide a vital habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can explore its numerous hiking trails and enjoy the peace and tranquility of unspoiled nature.
Drawa National Park
Drawa National Park, located in western Poland, is a natural sanctuary of pristine forests, meandering rivers, and diverse wildlife. Its picturesque landscapes offer opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and bird watching, providing visitors with a unique experience in contact with nature.
Gorce National Park
Gorce National Park, in southern Poland, captivates with its majestic mountains, dense forests, and crystal-clear streams. This tranquil haven is a paradise for hiking, mountain biking, and landscape photography, offering impressive panoramic views and a rich wildlife to explore.
Table Mountains National Park
Table Mountains National Park, located in southwestern Poland, is a natural treasure with spectacular rock formations, extensive forests, and alpine meadows. Visitors can enjoy exciting hikes on steep trails, rock climbing, and the opportunity to take in impressive views of the mountainous landscapes.
Magura National Park
Magura National Park, in southeastern Poland, is an impressive mountainous landscape with deep canyons, ancient forests, and a rich cultural history. With a variety of hiking and cycling trails, as well as the chance to discover prehistoric cave paintings, the park offers a unique experience in nature.
Narew National Park
Narew National Park, located in northeastern Poland, is a tranquil refuge for wildlife and a network of meandering rivers flowing through lush forests and meadows. Visitors can explore its wetlands by kayak, observe migratory birds, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of this unique ecosystem.
Polesie National Park
Polesie National Park, in eastern Poland, is a vast mosaic of swamps, forests, and rivers that hosts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. With extensive protected areas, visitors can enjoy bird watching, boat rides through natural channels, and the opportunity to connect with nature in its most pristine state.
Roztocze National Park
Roztocze National Park, in southeastern Poland, is an oasis of natural beauty with rolling hills, deep canyons, and picturesque beech forests. Well-marked trails invite hikers to explore its enchanting landscapes, while the crystal-clear waters of the streams offer a refreshing retreat during the summer months.
Slowinski National Park
Slowinski National Park, on the Baltic Sea coast, is famous for its moving sand dunes, inland lakes, and pristine coastal forests. Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lakes, explore the impressive dunes, and observe the diverse wildlife that inhabits this fragile coastal ecosystem.
Swietokrzyski National Park
Swietokrzyski National Park, located in the Świętokrzyskie mountain region, is a natural treasure with ancient forests, rugged cliffs, and rocky peaks offering stunning views. Visitors can explore its numerous trails, discover hidden waterfalls, and marvel at the diversity of flora and fauna that inhabit this unique landscape.
Ujście Warty National Park
Ujście Warty National Park, in the Wielkopolska region, is a paradise for migratory birds with extensive marshes, wetlands, and river channels. Bird watchers can delight in the opportunity to spot a wide variety of species, while nature lovers can explore its hiking trails and immerse themselves in the serenity of this aquatic environment.