Best lakes around Kerken offer diverse natural landscapes, including prominent recreational areas and former river channels. The region features natural bathing lakes, extensive walking and cycling paths, and areas suitable for various outdoor activities. These bodies of water, often formed from old Rhine channels or peat extraction, provide habitats for wildlife and opportunities for nature appreciation.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Kerken.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Beautiful hike on Christmas Day in sunshine and temperatures around 0 degrees Celsius.
0
0
A beautiful piece of nature
1
0
The Rheurdt/Littard State Forest is a nature reserve on the Lower Rhine in North Rhine-Westphalia, which is located in Rheurdt near the border with Neukirchen-Vluyn and covers an area of around 144 hectares. It was first placed under protection by regulation in 2004 and has also been designated as FFH area DE-4504-301 Rheurdt/Littard State Forest since 2013, which means it is part of the European Natura 2000 protected area network2. The area is a closed mixed deciduous forest area characterized by pedunculate oak-hornbeam forests and acidic beech forests. Particularly noteworthy is the almost 25-hectare Littard natural forest cell, which is not managed so that wild plants and animals can develop undisturbed2. The important bird species that live in the Rheurdt/Littard State Forest include the black woodpecker and the kingfisher. Source: KI
1
0
very good cycle paths and beautiful area have fun
2
0
Unfortunately we didn't see any
6
1
However, the Maasduinen, to which the area belongs, are more difficult to drive on, especially with bikes with narrow tires, and are very sandy. Hiking or pushing bikes gives you fitness. Unique nature experience, especially in rainy times (lakes are full) or in autumn when the heather is in bloom. However, the official and marked cycle paths (junction system) are easy to use. Leukermeer and Reindersmeer are a highlight, especially the bird life.
7
1
The "wild horses" are always interesting to watch, and I've also seen goats there. In autumn you can find many different types of mushrooms to look at and photograph Unfortunately, in dry summers the water disappears except for a few small ponds.
8
0
The Kerken region features a diverse range of lakes, including natural bathing lakes, ponds, and former river channels. Many of these, like the Littardkuhlen Ponds, are remnants of old Rhine channels or were formed from peat extraction, creating unique natural environments.
Yes, several areas are great for families. The Eyller See, for instance, offers a large playground available from May to September, a high ropes course, and a climbing rock. The Littardkuhlen Ponds and the Lakes and Forests of Staatsforst Rheurdt/Littard are also noted as family-friendly for walks and enjoying nature.
The Eyller See is a highly recommended natural bathing lake with excellent water quality, perfect for swimming. It also offers paddle boating and has a dedicated diving base. While other lakes are great for nature, Eyller See is the primary spot for active water recreation.
Absolutely. The Eyller See is surrounded by extensive walking paths. For more structured routes, you can explore various easy hikes around Kerken, such as the 'Cemetery Chapel Oberweg – Paulsen Cross loop from Aldekerk' or the 'St. Dionysius Church Nieukerk – Rentenbank Picnic Area loop from Nieukerk'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Kerken guide.
Yes, the area around the Eyller See features numerous cycling paths. For longer tours, consider routes like the 'Niers Riverside Trail – Along the Niers loop from Aldekerk' or the 'Great cycling route – Diebels Brewery loop from Aldekerk'. More cycling options are available in the Cycling around Kerken guide.
The Eyller See recreation area includes dedicated sections where dogs are allowed to roam freely and even enter the water. Many of the walking paths around the other lakes, such as the Littardkuhlen Ponds, are also suitable for walks with dogs.
The lakes are often part of nature reserves, providing habitats for wild birds and animals. At Wild Horses in Maasduinen National Park, you might spot horses among the many small lakes and ponds. The Lakes and Forests of Staatsforst Rheurdt/Littard are also known for their rich wildlife and tranquil natural settings.
The Niepkuhlen Bridge over Große Kull offers excellent views over the Niepkuhlen, an old Rhine channel. Additionally, the Verberger Kull features a beautifully created viewing platform with a bench, perfect for enjoying the Niepkuhlen nature reserve.
The lakes offer beauty year-round. For swimming and water sports, the warmer months from May to September are ideal, especially at Eyller See where the playground is also open. For walking and cycling, spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while the Lakes and Forests of Staatsforst Rheurdt/Littard offer a changing picture in every season.
Visitors frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. Many appreciate the opportunities for walking and enjoying nature, especially around areas like the Littardkuhlen Ponds and the Lakes and Forests of Staatsforst Rheurdt/Littard. The diverse activities at Eyller See, from swimming to high ropes, also receive high marks.
Many of the lakes and ponds in the Kerken area, such as the Littardkuhlen Ponds and the Niepkuhlen, are remnants of the ancient Rhine river channels. Others, like the lake-like river in the Lakes and Forests of Staatsforst Rheurdt/Littard, were formed from peat extraction, which filled with water over time.


Still not found your perfect lake around Kerken? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.