Altes Lager 18/36

Altes Lager 18/36 near Jüterbog in Brandenburg is one of the most important winch-tow sites in Germany, running a 1,600 m tow strip on north or south winds from around 100 m, with strong thermal potential that gives real cross-country range. Camping is available on site, and both guest pilots and outside clubs are welcome — though guests pay in cash only and sign a liability waiver before their first flight. PMR/LPD radio is mandatory for everyone flying. The site sits under a lowered stretch of controlled airspace for approaches into Berlin's Tegel and Schönefeld airports to the north and northeast, so altitude limits there need watching closely. Two protected areas require extra height on the overflight: the bustard reserve between Jüterbog, Werbig and Oehna, plus potential bustard breeding grounds near Kaltenborn, must be cleared by at least 150 m; the "Zarth" nature reserve near Treuenbrietzen and the wetlands around Bardenitz/Pechüle need 300 m. During towing, pilots also keep a safe distance from the go-kart track on site, so a tow line can never fall onto it. The site is reachable by train, with stations at both Altes Lager and Niedergörsdorf.

Launch & conditions

A 1,600 m tow strip on north or south winds; PMR/LPD radio is mandatory for everyone flying. During towing, keep a safe distance from the go-kart track on site so a tow line can never fall onto it.

Getting there & local rules

Reachable by train, with stations at both Altes Lager and Niedergörsdorf. Camping is available on site.

Local rules & hazards

The site sits under a lowered stretch of controlled airspace for Berlin Tegel and Schönefeld approaches to the north and northeast — watch altitude limits closely. The bustard reserve between Jüterbog, Werbig and Oehna, and potential bustard breeding grounds near Kaltenborn, must be cleared by at least 150 m; the 'Zarth' nature reserve near Treuenbrietzen and the Bardenitz/Pechüle wetlands need 300 m. Guest pilots pay cash only and sign a liability waiver before their first flight.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Altes Lager 18/36, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Altes Lager 18/36 with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.