Above all, sailors, canoeists and rowers pursue their sporting activities on the Rurstausee, both individually and organized in various clubs. RWTH Aachen University operates its own sports facility on the northern shore of the main lake, which is used extensively by the student rowing team in particular. On the main lake of the Rurtalsperre Schwammenauel and the Obersee in the Einruhr area as well as on the Heimbach and Obermaubach reservoirs, paddling canoes (including canoes and kayaks), rowing boats and pedal boats are permitted on the water surfaces. Paddling and rowing, except in approved rental boats from local rental companies, require a permit from the owner of the water if you use your own private boats.
Sailing and windsurfing are also permitted on the main lake of the Rurtalsperre Schwammenauel and on the Obermaubach reservoir with the appropriate permit from the water body owner. However, sailboats measuring more than 20 (the product of the length and breadth) are not permitted. Permits for users of their own private boats are available in the form of a plaque for a period of one week or one season (April to November) at the Rurberg National Park Gate on the lake shore.