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Plitvice Lakes National Park wilderness guide
National Park · Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cascading lakes and stunning waterfalls, attracting nature lovers from around the globe.

National Park73,3504+ Trails

Designation

National Park

Total Wilderness Area

73,350

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cascading lakes and stunning waterfalls, attracting nature lovers from around the globe.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia's most treasured natural wonders and the oldest and largest national park in the country. Spanning nearly 300 square kilometers, the park is most famous for its 16 interconnected lakes that change colors based on the minerals and organisms in the water, and how the sunlight hits them. The park's diverse ecosystem includes dense forests with rich wildlife, such as bears, wolves, and many rare bird species. Established in 1949, the park offers a network of walking trails and wooden footbridges that allow visitors to explore its unique landscapes without disturbing the delicate environment. The park's history includes being a battleground during Croatia's War of Independence, adding a layer of historical significance that complements its natural beauty. Activities include hiking, photography, and boating, offering visitors numerous ways to experience the breathtaking scenery. A visit to this park leaves a lasting impression due to its serene beauty and the harmonious interplay of water, rock, and forest environments.

Field Guide · National Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Plitvice Lakes National Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Plitvice Lakes National Park★ 9.2⌖ 0 miNature Walking
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Explore the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park with its cascading waterfalls and tranquil turquoise lakes. The moderate trails offer unique views perfect for nature walking and photography. Visit during spring or fall for a quieter experience.

Nature WalkingView Details→
Majestic Beauty of Great Waterfall, Plitvice★ 9.2⌖ 3 miSightseeing
Great Waterfall

Majestic Beauty of Great Waterfall, Plitvice

Explore Croatia's tallest waterfall, Veliki Slap, in Plitvice Lakes National Park. This hike-in viewpoint offers stunning vistas and diverse wildlife opportunities. Be ready for slippery rocks and high visitor numbers in peak months.

SightseeingView Details→
Samogradska Špilja: Croatia's Hidden Underground Marvel★ 7.2⌖ 19 miCave Exploration
Samogradska špilja

Samogradska Špilja: Croatia's Hidden Underground Marvel

Explore Samogradska Špilja near Perušić, Croatia, offering unique cave exploration opportunities with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Ideal for adventure seekers drawn to natural history and folklore. Best visited late spring to early fall.

Cave ExplorationView Details→
Nacionalni park Una★ 8.5⌖ 24 miSightseeing
Nacionalni park Una

Nacionalni park Una

Explore the stunning Štrbački Buk waterfalls in Nacionalni park Una, near Bihać. Perfect for sightseeing and photography, this serene destination is a must-visit for nature lovers. Best visited in late spring to early summer, it's a peaceful spot with diverse wildlife.

SightseeingView Details→
Velebit: A Majestic Croatian Wonder★ 8.5⌖ 29 miHiking
Velebit

Velebit: A Majestic Croatian Wonder

Explore Velebit, a majestic mountain range spanning Croatia's coastline. Offering picturesque hiking and climbing, the trails are tranquil year-round with stunning views and rich biodiversity. Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Stunning Views at Zavratnica★ 7.5⌖ 35 miHiking
Zavratnica

Stunning Views at Zavratnica

Explore Zavratnica in Croatia, famous for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. Ideal for hiking and kayaking, this tranquil spot is most pleasant in spring and fall. Plan for a scenic picnic with stunning views, and stay alert for the steep terrain.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Great Waterfall✦ The Boardwalks✦ Lake Kozjak Boat Ride✦ Supljara Cave
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees apply, with different ticket options available including one-day and two-day passes.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Camp Korana

Located near the park's entrance, it offers amenities such as showers, a shop, and a restaurant.

Camp Borje

Located 15 km south of the park, this campground offers a quiet retreat with plenty of amenities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Plitvice Lakes National Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Plitvice Selo
⌖ 2.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plitvice Selo

A quaint village perfect for outdoor enthusiasts exploring Croatia's natural wonders, situated near Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Plitvice
⌖ 5.17 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Plitvice, Croatia

A serene escape in Croatia where lush forests and cascading waterfalls offer a delightful playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Bihać
⌖ 14.53 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Bihać, Bosnia and Herzegovina

A riverfront town offering a gateway to diverse outdoor adventures in the unspoiled landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Spring and SummerExplore Town
Slunj
⌖ 17.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Slunj, Karlovac County

A serene town famed for its unique waterfalls and lush natural surroundings, offering a calming yet adventurous gateway for river and forest explorations.

Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Perušić
⌖ 17.77 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Perušić, Croatia

A quiet town gateway to karst landscapes, offering rugged hiking and caving adventures with access to wild rivers and traditional rural Croatia.

Late Spring to Early AutumnExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Zadar — Guided Walk, Boat and TrainPlitvička Jezera, Lika-Senj County · 1.98 mi away
All Adventures· Zadar In And Out

Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Zadar — Guided Walk, Boat and Train

Spend a day from Zadar exploring Plitvice Lakes National Park with guided walks, an electric train ride and a panoramic boat crossing. This tour includes park entry and round-trip transport, making it an efficient way to experience the park’s waterfalls and turquoise lakes.

9 hours (including transport); ~4 hours of park walking

Check dates & book
Private Full-Day Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zadar — Plitvička Jezera National Park GuidePlitvička Jezera, Lika-Senj County · 2.01 mi away
All Adventures· Adria Mice

Private Full-Day Plitvice Lakes Tour from Zadar — Plitvička Jezera National Park Guide

A private full-day tour from Zadar delivers an up-close encounter with Plitvice Lakes’ emerald waters, cascading falls, and travertine terraces. This practical guide explains what to expect on the boardwalks, how the park formed, and tips to make the most of a single day at Croatia’s most famous national park.

8 hours

Check dates & book

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.