When boating on the large open waters of Lake Oulujärvi or hiking along its beautiful sandy coves, you will understand why the lake has earned its nickname. Lake Oulujärvi offers a maritime atmosphere in a Finnish natural landscape.
Lake Oulujärvi, beloved by the people of Kainuu, is Finland’s fourth or fifth largest lake, closely competing with Lake Pielinen for its ranking. Its ranking depends on the water level: depending on regulation, Lake Oulujärvi covers an area of 778–944 km2, with an average of approximately 928 km2.
Lake Oulujärvi separated from Lake Ancylus, which existed after the Ice Age, about 8,500 years ago. Today, the lake’s shoreline is divided between Kajaani, Vaala, and Paltamo.
If you count the numerous islands in the lake, the total coastline is approximately 920 kilometers!
Since most of the islands have sandy beaches, the lake shores offer perfect places to spend a summer day. Have you already found your own secret beach cove?
The large open waters of Lake Oulujärvi also support its maritime nickname: Niskanselkä and Ärjänselkä form Finland’s largest contiguous open water areas.
Metsähallitus Nature Services maintains the Oulujärvi hiking area, which includes magnificent islands and sandy beaches.
In addition, there are 665 islands larger than one acre on the lake. The largest of these is Manamansalo, a well-known hiking and camping destination. The beloved and historic Ärjänsaari island is also full of stories and happy holiday memories.
Numbers & facts
Area: Average 928 km2
Deepest point: 38 meters
Average depth: approx. 8 meters
Water volume: approx. 5 billion cubic meters
Shore length: 580 km, approx. 920 km including islands
Outflowing rivers: Kajaaninjoki, Kiehimäjoki, and Varisjoki