In line with trends in the global tourism market, specific forms of tourism are increasingly developing. They have long suppressed mass tourism. Although tourism is developing more and more, it is necessary to encourage the development of ecological tourism. The Republic of Croatia is recognized as a popular tourist destination. The Republic of Croatia boasts natural beauties, and one of the natural beauties is the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The subject of the research refers to the analysis of the development of ecological tourism in the area of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The aim of this paper is to define the basic features of tourism, present ecological tourism and analyze the state of the Plitvice Lakes National Park. The purpose of this paper is to establish the potential for the development of ecological tourism in the Plitvice Lakes National Park. An important strategic document was issued in June 2019, and that is the Plitvice Lakes National Park Management Plan. The plan indicates that the stakeholders in the tourism market related to the development of tourism in protected areas are aware of the problems faced by the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and directly threatens future sustainable development. Tourism indicators are proof that the UNWTO forecasts on the number of international trips in the period from 2010 to 2030 have been exceeded. Consequently, it can be concluded that interest and demand for the Park will continue in the future. That is why it is important to work on preserving the park in every sense, as well as the presentation and quality experience of the Plitvice Lakes National Park.