Tuchola Forest Overview
Tuchola Forest National Park, known locally as Park Narodowy Bory Tucholskie, is a protected natural area in northern Poland, covering approximately 46 square miles (118.3 square kilometers).
Situated within the larger Tuchola Forest, one of the largest forested areas in Poland, the park is located in the Pomeranian Voivodeship and lies near the town of Chojnice. The park was established in 1996 and forms part of the UNESCO-designated Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve, which highlights its ecological significance and the efforts to preserve its unique environment.
The park’s landscape is characterized by vast pine forests, which dominate nearly 90 percent of its total area. These expansive woodlands are interspersed with over 20 picturesque lakes, including Lake Charzykowskie and Lake Ostrowite, as well as a network of rivers such as the Brda and Wda, which carve through the terrain, creating scenic river valleys.
The topography is largely shaped by glacial activity from the last Ice Age, leaving behind rolling hills, sandy outwash plains, and numerous postglacial depressions that now host small bogs and marshes. Peat bogs, especially the Struga Siedmiu Jezior (Stream of Seven Lakes) reserve, contribute to the park’s diverse wetland ecosystems, providing a sanctuary for rare plant species. Among the notable flora are relict plant species such as sundews, orchids, and club mosses, which thrive in the park’s humid environments.
Tuchola Forest National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, with many species adapted to its dense woodlands, wetlands, and lakes. One of the most iconic mammals in the park is the European beaver, which has been successfully reintroduced and now plays a key role in maintaining wetland habitats. Other notable mammals include red deer, roe deer, wild boars, and pine martens.
The park’s birdlife is particularly rich, attracting ornithologists and birdwatchers due to the presence of rare species. White-tailed eagles, black storks, and common cranes are among the most sought-after sightings, while various woodpecker species thrive in the old-growth sections of the forest. The park’s wetlands and lakes also support a variety of amphibians, including the fire-bellied toad and the European tree frog, further enhancing its biodiversity.
Visitors to Tuchola Forest National Park can experience its natural beauty through various outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling trails wind through the forest, offering opportunities to explore its serene landscapes. Kayaking and canoeing on the Brda River provide a peaceful way to navigate the park’s waterways while taking in its tranquil scenery.
The lakes are popular for birdwatching and photography, particularly during migratory seasons when waterfowl and waders are most active. The Struga Siedmiu Jezior trail is a favorite among nature enthusiasts, leading through a pristine glacial valley with interconnected lakes and peat bogs. For those interested in cultural experiences, nearby villages showcase traditional Kashubian heritage, with wooden churches, folk museums, and local crafts providing a glimpse into the region’s history.
Tuchola Forest National Park faces conservation challenges, particularly from climate change, deforestation in surrounding areas, and human activities such as tourism and agriculture.
Efforts to preserve its delicate ecosystems have been largely successful, thanks to strict environmental protections, habitat restoration programs, and sustainable tourism initiatives.
The park’s inclusion in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve framework helps ensure that its rich biodiversity and unique landscapes remain protected for future generations. Through ongoing conservation efforts, Tuchola Forest National Park continues to serve as an important sanctuary for Poland’s natural heritage.