The tiny Free State of Schaumburg-Lippe existed until 1946, when it became an administrative area within Lower Saxony.

After World War II, Schaumburg and Schaumburg-Lippe became districts within the state of Lower Saxony, until they were merged again in 1977.

The Weser Uplands consist of hilly ridges and include the Wesergebirge, Harrl, Süntel, Bückeberg and Deister.

The Schaumburg Forest is a continuous strip of woods running in a direction of approximately 60 degrees along the northern border of the district.

The river Weser flows westward along the south of the Wiehengebirge through a broad valley and the town of Rinteln.

In the flat North German Plain to the east of Schaumburg district lies Hanover, the capital city of Lower Saxony.