Best lakes in Boswachterij Sleenerzand, a diverse natural area in Drenthe, Netherlands, include a notable recreational lake and smaller, historically significant water bodies. The landscape features Kibbelkoele, an artificial swimming lake, alongside fens and pingo ruins. These remnants from the Ice Age contribute to the area's varied natural features and geological importance. The region offers a mix of active recreation and opportunities to explore ancient natural formations.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
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Popular around Boswachterij Sleenerzand
The swimming spot is located in the Sleenerzand forest, between Noord-Sleen and Schoonoord and close to Emmen. The spot originally originated from sand extraction during the construction of the N381 and is a wonderfully clean swimming spot with a separate play pond for the little ones, with a spacious sandy beach. The spot is approximately 4 hectares in size and is shallow (with a slowly sloping bottom), making it very suitable for small children. The beach (which surrounds the entire spot) is cleaned daily. In short: ideal for a day out with your family!
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It's a beautiful place, with good paths/trails... I'll definitely be back.
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In the middle of the woods and a beautiful lake. The camper can also be parked there, with a direct view of the lake.
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Nice bathing spot in the forest - but the toilets have not been in use for a long time
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Coming from the Slenerweg, you should actually take this exit. The view over the adjacent water is relaxing!
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Need some refreshment during your trip? Put your bike against a tree and take a dip in the Kibbelkoele! The puddle is not too deep, so you can walk in it.
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For families, Kibbelkoele Lake is an excellent choice. It features a spacious sand beach and clear, shallow water, making it ideal for children to play and swim safely. The area also provides picnic spots and toilets, with a kiosk often open during summer months for refreshments.
Yes, Kibbelkoele Lake is the primary destination for swimming and water-based recreation in Boswachterij Sleenerzand. It's known for its clean water and sandy beach, which is cleaned daily. Other smaller water bodies like fens are not suitable for swimming.
Beyond the recreational Kibbelkoele Lake, Boswachterij Sleenerzand is rich in unique natural features. You'll find fens and pingo ruins, which are small, historically significant water bodies dating back to the Ice Age. Areas like De Kijl feature high moor and wet heathland with fens, while The Black Pond is a small fen surrounded by ash-black peat soil. These contribute to a diverse and ancient landscape.
Absolutely. The lakes are integrated into the wider trail network of Boswachterij Sleenerzand. For example, Kibbelkoele Lake is part of the 'Juniper route & around Kibbelkoele' trail, offering a refreshing stop during a walk. You can find various routes, including family-friendly options, in the Family-friendly hikes in Boswachterij Sleenerzand guide, with easy routes like the 'Pieterpad Monument – Bench With a View of the Fen loop'.
At Kibbelkoele Lake, you'll find amenities such as picnic areas and toilets. During the summer months, a kiosk is often open, offering refreshments like ice cream, fries, and drinks. The beach is also cleaned daily for visitors' comfort.
While specific rules for each lake may vary, Boswachterij Sleenerzand generally offers dog-friendly trails. It's advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves and around wildlife. Always check local signage for specific regulations around swimming areas like Kibbelkoele Lake.
The best time to visit depends on your activity. For swimming and beach activities at Kibbelkoele Lake, the summer months are ideal. For hiking and enjoying the natural beauty of fens and heathland, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant colors, such as the blooming heather at De Kijl.
Yes, the region offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes that incorporate the natural beauty of the area, including sections near the lakes. Explore options in the Traffic-free bike rides in Boswachterij Sleenerzand guide to plan your cycling adventure.
The fens and pingo ruins are unique geological features, remnants from the Ice Age. Pingo ruins, formed by the collapse of ice-cored hills, often retain water due to impermeable layers, sometimes filling with peat-bog. These smaller water bodies, like those found at De Kijl and The Black Pond, are not for recreation but are significant for their historical and ecological value, supporting unique ecosystems.
Yes, parking is available, particularly near the main recreational lake. Kibbelkoele Lake is listed as having parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The diverse landscape around the lakes, especially in areas like De Kijl with its high moor and wet heathland, supports various wildlife. You might encounter Scottish Highlanders grazing in certain forestry areas. The fens and ponds also create unique ecosystems that attract different bird species and insects.


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