In Russia, the most common form of preservation of specially protected natural areas is formation of nature reserves. Due to nature protection regulations, which limit activities within the boundaries of the reserve, and due to the difference between the natural boundaries and those of the protected natural areas, the authors propose the strategy for urban development of the territories adjacent to the protected natural areas. The study identifies the main types of the areas adjacent to the reserves and provides their classification. It is proposed to form three zones: strictly preserved, buffer and protected natural zones. Strategies for urban planning development of the territories adjacent to the protected natural areas and measures have been developed for three sites of the Belogorye reserve: Forest on Vorskla, Yamskaya Steppe, Stenki Izgorya. This will ensure preservation of unique natural complexes; strengthen the natural framework of the region and stabilize the ecological situation; intensify research and educational activities in the reserves; enhance the socio-economic development of the territories adjacent to the reserve and the development of the region’s tourist and recreational infrastructure.