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De Uilenhorst National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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De Uilenhorst is a significant woodland and nature reserve located near Peize in the province of Drenthe, often integrated into the broader 'Kop van Drenthe' conservation complex. The area is characterized by ancient deciduous forests situated on sandy ridges amidst formerly marshy lowlands. The name 'Uilenhorst' reflects the abundant population of owls, including tawny owls and barn owls, which find good nesting conditions here. The vegetation primarily consists of oak and beech trees, with some specimens reaching a substantial age and providing critical habitats for woodpeckers and bats. Historically, the site was part of a small-scale agricultural landscape where forestry and livestock farming coexisted. Today, De Uilenhorst acts as a vital sanctuary for indigenous fauna and is accessible to nature enthusiasts through peaceful walking trails. The preservation of biodiversity and the protection of old-growth forest structures are central to its management by the Staatsbosbeheer forestry organization.

Location: Gelderland, Netherlands
Top sights: Terletsche Heide · Galgenberg · Voormalig Teerose III
Nearby: Arnhem (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	2	3	5	10	13	17	19	18	15	11	6	3
Rain mm	74	60	55	39	59	59	77	80	58	64	68	76

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This protected nature area in the east of the Netherlands is usually reachable by local roads leading to its borders. Cyclists often use the extensive regional networks to enter the moorlands.

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Best season

The combination of moorlands and forests provides distinct beauty throughout the changing seasons. Spring and autumn are typically considered well-suited for observing the dynamic shifts in local foliage.

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Terrain & paths

Trails here generally consist of unpaved forest paths and softer moorland tracks that are relatively level. The walking routes are typically suitable for most people possessing standard mobility.

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What to bring

Sturdy, waterproof walking shoes are strongly recommended when navigating the softer moorland paths. Bringing weather-appropriate layers and your own hydration supplies is usually a smart choice.

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Parking

Dedicated parking zones can typically be found near the main access points to the forests. It is generally advisable to arrive earlier in the day during busy periods to easily find a suitable spot.

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Safety

Staying on marked trails is highly recommended to protect the sensitive moorland ecology. As with many forested areas, performing a standard check for ticks after your visit is always a good practice.

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Time needed

Most visitors typically spend around two to three hours exploring the diverse forest and moorland landscapes. Those interested in detailed nature observation often extend their visit to a full morning.

Geography

Coordinates

52.05000, 5.95000

Facts

Located within the 'Kop van Drenthe' region.
Critical nesting site for tawny owls and barn owls.
Features old-growth stands of oak and beech trees.
Managed by the national forestry agency, Staatsbosbeheer.
Part of an ecological network designed to connect nature areas.
Provides specialized habitats for several rare bat species.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Burgers' Zoo4 km · SWExplore →

Veluwezoom5 km · SEExplore →

Posbank7 km · SEExplore →

Veluwezoom Moraine7 km · EExplore →

Arnhem8 km · SWExplore →

Westervoort9 km · SExplore →

De Hoge Veluwe National Park10 km · WExplore →

Hoge Veluwe10 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town De Uilenhorst National Park (7)

Terletsche Heide

A heathland area in the national park, with heather and juniper, habitat for birds.

Galgenberg

A hill in Gelderland, offering a wide view over the surrounding landscape.

Voormalig Teerose III

Remains of a former WWII aircraft navigation system.

Rozendaalse Veld

An open heath and grassland area in the national park, with rare plants and insects.

🌐 geerfdenvanvelp.nl

Rozendaalse Bos

A forested area in the national park, with oaks, beeches, and pines, rich in wildlife.

Brandtoren

An observation tower, its first platform accessible to the public.

Zwarte Berg

A hill in the Netherlands, the highest point in Uilenhorst National Park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is De Uilenhorst located?

It is located in the province of Gelderland, near Apeldoorn.

Can you watch birds there?

Yes, it is a well-known area for watching owls and birds of prey.

Are there marked hiking trails?

Yes, there are various routes through the forest and heathland.

Is entry free?

Yes, access to the nature area is free for visitors.

Is camping allowed?

Wild camping is not allowed, but there are official campsites nearby.

De Uilenhorst National Park: where is it located?

De Uilenhorst National Park is located in Gelderland, Netherlands.

De Uilenhorst National Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Terletsche Heide, Galgenberg, Voormalig Teerose III.

De Uilenhorst National Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

De Uilenhorst National Park: why is it worth visiting?

De Uilenhorst is a significant woodland and nature reserve located near Peize in the province of Drenthe, often integrated into the broader 'Kop van Drenthe' conservation complex.

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