In addition to its identity as Turkey's capital, Ankara is also home to lush green corners and peaceful getaways waiting to be discovered. Especially in the spring and summer months, a picnic is a great option to get away from the stress and noise of the city and spend a pleasant day in nature with our loved ones. So, if you are asking 'Where is the best picnic spot in Ankara?', you are at the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we examine the most popular picnic areas in Ankara in detail, and all you have to do is prepare your basket and set off!
Ankara’s Best Picnic Areas: A Complete Seasonal Outdoor Guide
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1. Goksu Park: The Pearl of Eryaman
Göksu Park, one of the largest and most popular parks in Ankara, spreads over a large area in Eryaman. Especially with its pond, lush green grass areas and the variety of activities it offers, it is a place frequently preferred by families and groups of friends.
Picnic Area Rules: Barbecues are generally allowed in the designated picnic areas in Göksu Park. However, it is useful to check the current situation before going, especially in the summer months, in case of possible barbecue bans. You can bring your own samovar and barbecue. You are expected to pick up your garbage and not damage the area.
When to Visit: Spring and fall are the best times to enjoy Göksu Park. Weekends in the summer months can be quite crowded, so you may prefer weekdays or early mornings for a quieter experience.
Transportation Facilities: Göksu Park is very easy to reach by private car, and there are large parking areas within the park. For those who want to use public transportation, you can reach the park with a short walk or by bus after getting off the Eryaman 1-2 metro station.
Facilities Offered: There are many picnic tables, camellias, children's playgrounds, walking and cycling paths, cafes and restaurants, toilets and a prayer room in the park. There are also activities such as renting a sea bike on the pond.
2. Lake Mogan: Alone with Nature in Gölbaşinde
Located in the Gölbaşı district of Ankara, Mogan Lake is one of the most important natural beauties of the city with its unique view and calm atmosphere. Its wide shoreline is ideal for picnics and nature walks.
Picnic Area Rules: You can have a picnic in designated areas around Mogan Lake. There are barbecue units specially reserved for barbecues and it is generally forbidden to light barbecues outside these areas. It is of great importance to pay attention to environmental cleanliness and not to pollute the lake.
When to Visit: Although Mogan Lake offers a different beauty every season of the year, the most enjoyable times for picnics are late spring and summer. Especially for those who want to have a picnic with a sunset view, the afternoon hours are ideal. Keep in mind that weekends can be busy.
Transportation Facilities: Mogan Lake is easily accessible by private car from the centre of Ankara via the Konya road. There are parking areas around the lake. Buses and minibuses going to Gölbaşı can be used for public transportation.
Facilities Offered: There are picnic tables, benches, children's playgrounds, walking and jogging trails, bicycle rental points, restaurants, cafes, buffets and toilets around the lake. There are also activities such as bird watching towers and boat tours.
Source: Gölbaşı Belediyesi
3. Lake Mavi (Bayındır Dam): Every Shade of Green
Located within the borders of the Mamak district of Ankara, Lake Mavi is actually an artificial pond formed by the Bayındır Dam. Surrounded by pine forests and lush vegetation, it is one of the escape points for Ankara residents, especially on weekends.
Picnic Area Rules: There are organised picnic areas around the Blue Lake. Barbecues are generally allowed in these areas, but you should be very careful when lighting a fire and be cautious against forest fires. You can bring your own barbecue or use the fixed barbecue places in the area. It is mandatory to use the garbage containers and keep the environment clean.
When to visit: Spring is the time when nature comes alive, and Lake Mavi offers one of its most beautiful views. In the summer months, it can also be preferred to cool off and be in touch with nature. Weekdays will be more suitable for those looking for calmness.
Transportation Facilities: Lake Mavi can be reached by private vehicle via the Samsun road. There is a parking lot around the lake. Buses and minibuses going to the Mamak region can be used for public transportation, but for direct access to the lake, you may need to take a taxi or walk.
Facilities Offered: Lake Mavi has basic facilities such as picnic tables, camellias, children's playgrounds, walking trails, kiosks, toilets and a prayer room. Fishing is also available (permission may be required).
Source: ANFA Genel Müdürlüğü
4. Altınpark: An Oasis in the Heart of the City
Located in the Altındağ district of Ankara, Altınpark is one of the city's oldest and most comprehensive parks with its large landscape areas, ponds, greenhouses and various facilities. It also offers various options for those who want to have a picnic.
Picnic Area Rules: There are specially reserved picnic areas in Altınpark. Barbecues are not allowed in these areas. You can come with more ready-made food and have a pleasant meal on the grass or picnic tables. It is important to follow the general cleaning rules of the park.
When to visit: Altınpark is a place that can be visited in all seasons of the year. However, the ideal times for picnics are spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. Especially during the tulip festival, the park takes on a colourful atmosphere.
Transportation Facilities: Altınpark is easily accessible by public transportation thanks to its central location. Ankaray's Altınpark (ASKİ) stop is right next to the park. Many bus and minibus lines also pass close to the park. Parking areas are available for those arriving by private car.
Facilities Offered: In addition to picnic areas, the park has a science centre, fairground, ponds, water bikes, mini train, horse riding areas, sports fields, children's playgrounds, many cafes, restaurants, buffets, toilets and mosques.
Source: ANFA Genel Müdürlüğü
5. Kurtboğazı Dam and Surroundings: For those who want to get away from the city
Located on the Kızılcahamam road, about 60 km from Ankara, Kurtboğazı Dam and its surroundings are the choice of those who want to be alone with nature and have a quieter picnic experience, especially on weekends. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with its large forested areas and dam view.
Picnic Area Rules: Barbecues are generally allowed in the picnic areas around Kurtboğazı Dam. However, since it is a forested area, you should be extremely careful when lighting a fire and take all safety precautions. Especially in windy weather, barbecues should be avoided. You are expected to take your garbage back with you or throw it in the designated garbage areas.
When to visit: Spring and summer are the best times to enjoy the Kurtboğazı Dam. With its lush green nature and cool air, it is a good alternative, especially on hot summer days.
Transportation Facilities: Transportation to Kurtboğazı Dam is usually provided by private vehicle. You can reach it by following the signs on the way to Kızılcahamam direction on the Istanbul road. Public transportation facilities are limited.
Facilities Offered: Picnic areas around the dam usually have basic facilities. Some businesses may offer services such as picnic tables, camellias, toilets and buffets. However, it is more suitable for the concept of picnicking in a natural environment by bringing your own chair, table and food.
Source: Doğa Kamp İnsan YouTube
6. Eymir Lake (METU Land): The Address of Naturalness and Peace
Eymir Lake, located within the Middle East Technical University (METU) grounds, is one of the favourite escape spots of Ankara residents. Away from the chaos of the city and offering a unique natural beauty, the lake and its surroundings are a centre of attraction, especially for cyclists, hiking enthusiasts and nature photographers.
Picnic Area Rules: There are specially designated areas for picnics in Lake Eymir. It is strictly forbidden to light a barbecue. This rule is strictly enforced to protect the natural structure and ecosystem of the lake. You can bring your own food and drinks and have a pleasant picnic without harming nature. A vehicle stamp issued by METU is required for vehicle access to the area, or ring shuttles can be used at certain hours. Pedestrian and bicycle access is generally free. You can walk your pets on a leash.
When to Visit: Eymir Lake has a different beauty in four seasons. Flowers and greening nature bloom in spring, and in the fall, it offers romantic landscapes dominated by yellow and orange tones. Weekdays are more suitable for experiencing the calm and tranquillity of the lake. Weekends can be quite crowded, especially in good weather.
Transportation Facilities: For those who want to go by private car, you can enter from METU A-1 (Eskişehir Road) or A-4 (Konya Road) gates (car stamp or guest card may be required; check the current status on the METU website). After reaching the METU campus by public transportation, you can walk around the lake on foot or take the on-campus rings. There are also bicycle rental points around the lake.
Facilities Offered: There are walking and cycling paths around the lake, benches, picnic tables (limited in number), cafeterias (such as Baraka Café, Kürek Café), toilets and the facilities of METU Rowing Team. The natural beauty and tranquillity of the lake are its greatest assets.
Source: TheMagger
7. Land of Wonders Sincan's Fairy Tale Park
Located in the Sincan district, Wonderland is an excellent picnic and entertainment alternative, especially for families with children. One of the largest parks in Turkey, this area attracts attention with its giant statues of fairy tale heroes, large green areas and various activity opportunities.
Picnic Area Rules: There are specially reserved large picnic areas in Wonderland. Barbecues are generally allowed in these areas. However, it is useful to get information from Sincan Municipality before you go, as there may be temporary bans depending on the density and weather conditions. You can bring your own barbecue and picnic equipment. It is expected to pay attention to environmental cleanliness.
When to go: Spring and summer months are the best times when the park welcomes its visitors with all its vitality. The park is very active during this period, when children can release their energy and families can have a pleasant time.
Transportation Facilities: Land of Wonders is easily accessible by private car via the Ankara-Ayaş road. The park has large parking areas. EGO buses and suburban trains to Sincan can be used by public transportation (a transfer may be required after Başkentray - Sincan Station).
Facilities Offered: The park has many picnic tables and camellias, children's playgrounds, a fairy tale island, a go-kart track, a mini train, ponds, an amphitheatre, a skateboard track, sports fields, cafeterias, kiosks, toilets and masjid.
Source: ANFA Genel Müdürlüğü
8. Ahlatlıbel Atatürk Park: Çankaya's Favorite
Ahlatlıbel Atatürk Park, located on the İncek road in Çankaya district, is one of the favourite spots of Ankara residents who want to do sports and relax. It offers a modern park atmosphere with its large lawn areas, sports facilities and organised landscaping.
Picnic Area Rules: Picnics are allowed in designated areas in Ahlatlıbel. However, barbecues are generally prohibited. It is important to follow this rule in order to maintain the general order and cleanliness of the park. You can come with more ready-to-eat food and have a picnic on the grass or on the benches.
When to visit: Although it is suitable for visits at any time of the year, it is especially ideal for sports activities and picnics in spring and summer. Weekends and evening hours are very popular.
Transportation Facilities: Ahlatlıbel Atatürk Park is easily accessible by private car from Çankaya and İncek directions. The park has a large parking lot. By public transportation, buses from Kızılay or other central points can be used in the direction of İncek.
Facilities Offered: The park has walking and jogging trails, tennis courts, basketball and volleyball courts, fitness areas, playgrounds, cafeterias, restaurants, kiosks, restrooms and recreation areas. The large lawn areas are ideal for sunbathing and leisure activities.
Source: TripAdvisor
9. Soguksu National Park (Kizilcahamam): A Natural Wonder Close to Ankara
Located in Kızılcahamam district, about 80 km from the centre of Ankara, Soğuksu National Park is a unique option for those who want to completely get away from the noise of the city, especially on the weekend, and have a picnic among larch forests in an environment with plenty of oxygen. It also attracts attention with its rich flora and fauna.
Picnic Area Rules: There are many picnic areas and daily use areas organised in Soğuksu National Park. In these areas, it is generally allowed to light a fire in a controlled manner in the designated hearth places or in the barbecues you bring yourself. However, since it is a forested area, you should be extremely careful against the risk of fire and follow the warnings of the officials. Especially in the summer months, there may be fire bans, it is important to get confirmation from the national park directorate before going. Respect for natural life and the environment is essential. Entrance is usually chargeable.
When to go: The park offers spectacular views in the spring with the awakening of nature or in the fall when the leaves turn yellow. In summer, it is an ideal cooling point to escape the heat of Ankara. In winter, the snow also adds beauty, but conditions can be more challenging for picnics.
Transportation Facilities: Transportation to Soğuksu National Park is usually provided by following the signs after reaching Kızılcahamam on the Istanbul road by private car. There are also regular minibus services from the Kızılcahamam district center to the national park.
Facilities Offered: There are picnic tables, camellias, children's playgrounds, hiking and trekking trails (marked routes), thermal hotels, restaurants, buffets, fountains, toilets and a visitor information center. There are also special interest areas such as fossil trees and a black vulture observation point.
Source: Kızılcahamam Belediyesi
10. Yakacik Recreation Area (Yenimahalle): A Pleasant Option for Families
Located in Yenimahalle district, Yakacık Recreation Area is an easily accessible, family-friendly picnic and recreation area, especially for residents of the district and those living in the immediate vicinity. It is known for its large green areas and tranquil atmosphere.
Picnic Area Rules: Barbecues are generally allowed in designated picnic areas in Yakacık Recreation Area. There may be barbecue units or barbecue areas within the area. It is important to pay attention to environmental cleanliness and dispose of garbage properly.
When to go: It is a place where families show great interest, especially on weekends and public holidays. Spring and summer are the best times to spend time outdoors. Weekdays can be preferred for a calmer experience.
Transportation Facilities: It is easily accessible from Yenimahalle by private car. There are parking facilities around the area. Public transportation can be provided by some bus and minibus lines coming from Yenimahalle centre or the Batıkent direction, but a short walk may be required after the nearest stop.
Facilities Offered: The recreation area has basic facilities such as picnic tables, camellias, playgrounds, walking paths, sports equipment, kiosks, fountains and toilets. It offers an environment where families can spend time comfortably and children can play safely.
Source: Yeni Mahalle Belediyesi