The present characteristics of the area are strongly influenced by the 'esdorp culture'.

The continuous removal of minerals resulted in heathlands and sand-drifts.

In the 19th century, the state started forestry programmes, and such species as oak, pine, Douglas fir and Japanese larch were planted.

In the national park we find among others the European pine marten (Martes martes), the Smooth snake (Coronella austriaca), the Great Crested Newt (Triturus cristatus), the Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara), the Common Raven (Corvus corax), Stiff clubmoss (Lycopodium annotinum) and Bog-rosemary (Andromeda polifolia).

In Appelscha, Hoogersmilde, and Diever are visitor and information centres.