Instructions and Rules in Bothnian Bay National Park

A person admiring the view through binoculars. A sea landscape opens up in the background.

Instructions for Exploring Bothnian Bay National Park

In Bothnian Bay National Park the following is

allowed

restricted

forbidden

  • lighting campfires if the forest fire warning or the grass fire warning is in effect.
  • pets running at large
  • taking or damaging trees, bushes, other plants or their parts, or mushrooms other than edible ones
  • damaging soil or rock, and extraction of earth material or minerals
  • killing, catching or disturbing wild vertebrates, or damaging their nests
  • catching or collecting invertebrates
  • driving motor vehicles, except on roads designated for motor vehicles
  • leaving waste in the area, or damaging constructions
  • landing ashore and entering some islands and water areas from 1.5. to 31.7. to ensure peaceful nesting for birds. The restricted areas are marked with boards and signs.
  • The Möyly grey seal protection area, established in 15.9.2001, is within the boundaries of the National Park. Entering the area is forbidden throughout the year for those without a Metsähallitus permit. This area reaches one nautical mile (926 m) from the Möyly reef. Entering an area no closer than half a nautical mile from the Möyly reef is allowed 16.6.-31.1.

Preparations

  • As Bothnian Bay National Park is located in the windy outer archipelago, which is prone to large waves, boats must be sea worthy and capable of withstanding extreme conditions. In many places the waters of the National Park are shallow and rocky. Only experienced boaters should attempt to enter the park's waters unguided.
  • Get the latest weather forecast and wind conditions before setting off. When there are high winds inexperienced boaters or those with small vessels are advised to stay ashore.
  • Good binoculars should be kept aboard. They will be useful for orientation and bird watching.
  • During summer the islands have swarms of gadflies, which can sting. You should therefore cover you skin with long pants and sleeves.
  • Read more about Hiking without littering.

Mobile Phone Coverage

  • Although Finland has a broad network for mobile phones, there are some areas in the park where cliffs or forest block signals. There may also be some smaller spots where there is interference. If this happens try to climb to a higher place or go into an open area. It may be worth removing the SIM card from your phone and then trying again to make emergency call. Different phones also differ in their coverage.
  • We recommend that you keep your mobile phone warm at all times and take along food and drink. Certain phone models do not work when the temperature falls below zero. You should therefore let someone know your planned route. To keep your mobile phone charged, bring along a spare power source, a spare battery or an old phone with a working battery.

Safety

Check for Warnings

When forest and grass fire warnings (en.ilmatieteenlaitos.fi) are in effect, fire is only allowed at covered campfire sites that have a flue. A fire can be also lit in fireplaces at wilderness and other huts. Always use extreme caution when handling fire. The one who lights a fire is always responsible for its safe use. Please note, that making fire at these campfire sites can be banned locally. 

Gathering at the campfire sites increases the risk of coronavirus infection. Guidelines concerning coronavirus COVID-19

112 Emergency Number

If you have an emergency during your trip, such as getting lost, injured or finding a wildfire, call 112. Read more detailed emergency instructions.

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Download the 112 Finland application (112.fi) to your phone. When an emergency call is made through the 112 Finland application, the emergency centre attendant is automatically informed of the caller's location.

It is recommended to keep the mobile phone warm and to bring extra food and water with you. There are many excursion locations with no mobile coverage and some mobile phones does not work in sub-zero temperatures, that is why it is always a good idea to let someone know about your itinerary and timetable.

Outdoor Etiquette

A cartoon picture of a family walking on a summer path.

1. Respect nature.

2. Mainly use marked trails.

3. Camp only where it is allowed.

4. Light your campfire only where it is allowed.

5. Do not litter.

Read more