Turkey is a paradise for camping enthusiasts. With its unique nature, rich cultural heritage and different geographical regions, it offers areas suitable for camping in all seasons. In this article, we will take a detailed look at 11 of the best camping sites from all over Turkey. These areas, each with their own unique characteristics, offer ideal options for those looking for a peaceful vacation in touch with nature. So, where to camp in Turkey? What are the best camping spots in Turkey? Let's explore together.
Best 11 Campsites in Turkey: Where to Camp in Nature
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1. Kabak Bay - Fethiye, Mugla
Located near the village of Faralya in Fethiye, Kabak Bay is a beachfront campsite surrounded by mountains on three sides. Although it is a bit difficult to reach, it offers a peaceful environment away from the crowds thanks to this feature. You can camp in tents or stay in bungalows in Kabak Bay. In this area where sea, forest and mountain views are combined, activities such as nature walks and yoga can also be done. Basic needs such as showers, toilets and restaurants are provided in the campsites.
Additional Suggestions
Lycian Way connection: Kabak Bay is located on the famous Lycian Way hiking route. In this way, it is an important stopover point for trekking travellers.
Butterfly Population: It is possible to come across butterflies of different species in the region, especially in summer.
Transportation by Car: You can go to Faralya village by private car, from there you need to walk on a steep path of about 20-30 minutes to reach the bay. Alternatively, shuttle minibuses can also be used during the summer months.
Source: NerdeNerede
2. Yedigöller National Park - Bolu
Yedigöller National Park, located in the north of Bolu, takes its name from the seven lakes it contains. It fascinates its visitors with its riot of colours, especially in autumn. You can set up tents in the campsites designated in the park, walk around the lake and relax in the silence of nature. There are facilities such as toilets and prayer rooms in the campsites. As of 2024, the caravan accommodation fee is 50 TL.
Additional Suggestions
Winter Camping: Yedigöller also becomes attractive for campers when it snows. For those who want to camp in winter, it offers hiking and nature photography opportunities under the snow cover.
Wildlife: The park is home to many wild animals such as deer, roe deer, foxes, bears and squirrels. It is rich in observation for nature lovers.
Entrance Fee: As of 2024, the entrance fee per person is 60 TL, and the entrance fee by car is 180 TL.
3. Can Mocamp - Kaş, Antalya
Located close to the centre of Kaş, Can Mocamp offers a tranquil camping experience among olive trees. As well as tent camping, accommodation options such as tiny houses and bungalows are also available. Facilities such as wi-fi, laundry and restaurant are available on site. In 2024, the tent accommodation fee is 400 TL in April-May and 500 TL in June-July-August.
Additional Suggestions
Art and Music Events: Live music events, film screenings and workshops are organised at Can Mocamp during the summer months.
Proximity to Diving Centres: The facility is within walking distance of the diving centres in Kaş. It is advantageous for those who want to do scuba diving.
Source: Can Mocamp
4. Gökçesu Camping - Köprülü Canyon, Antalya
Köprülü Canyon in the Manavgat district is a popular destination for rafting and hiking. Gökçesu Camping offers suitable areas for tent and caravan camping. Facilities such as restaurants, showers, toilets, markets and laundry are available within the facility. Rafting activities are also organised. As of 2024, the accommodation fee per person in a tent is 170 TL and 210 TL for a caravan.
Additional Suggestions
Historical Bridge: There is a historical stone bridge from the Roman period near the campsite. It is an ideal route for both hiking and photography.
National Park Boundaries: The facility is located within the Köprülü Canyon National Park; thus, it offers a camping experience within the nature conservation area.
Source: Gokcesu.com
5. Akyaka Forest Camp - Muğla
Located in Gökova Bay, Akyaka Forest Camp is a unique camping area where the sea and the forest meet. The facility, which offers suitable areas for tent and caravan camping, has facilities such as a market, sink and power line. As of 2024, the accommodation fee per tent is 40 TL.
Additional Suggestions
Proximity to Azmak River: The campground is very close to the Azmak River, where swimming is forbidden, but boat tours are available.
Kitesurfing Areas: Akyaka is one of the best kitesurfing spots in Turkey. The campsite is 10 minutes away from the kitesurf centres.
Source: Kamp Alanları
6. Salda Lake - Yesilova, Burdur
Called the Maldives of Turkey, Salda Lake is famous for its white sands and turquoise water. There are two areas around the lake where you can camp: Yesilova Municipality Public Beach and Doganbaba Public Beach. Yesilova Municipality Public Beach has a large and affordable facility. Doğanbaba Public Beach offers a more tranquil setting, but facilities are limited.
Additional Suggestions
Geological Features: There are white rocks called “hydromagnesite” around Salda Lake. This feature has been the subject of NASA studies that liken the lake to the surface of Mars.
Protection Status: The lake and its surroundings were declared “Salda Lake Special Environmental Protection Area” in 2019; therefore, construction and permanent facilities are prohibited.
7. Aktur Datca Camping - Datca, Mugla
Located on the Datça Peninsula, Aktur Datça Camping offers a peaceful camping experience in the shade of pine forests. Tent and caravan accommodation options are available in the campground. There are facilities such as bathrooms, showers, a kitchen, laundry and dishwashing areas within the facility. Activities such as water sports and nature walks are also available.
Additional Suggestions
Blue Flag Beach: The campsite has a blue flag beach known for its cleanliness and sea quality.
Noise Restriction: The campsite is known for its tranquillity; music and noise are not allowed after certain hours.
Source: Tripadvisor
8. Mount Ida - Balıkesir
Kaz Mountains, known for its breathtaking nature and fresh air in the Aegean Region, is an ideal destination for camping lovers. You can set up tents in the campgrounds located at the foot of the mountain, go on nature walks and refresh yourself with fresh air with plenty of oxygen. There are many campsites in the region, and prices vary.
Additional Suggestions
Mythological Connection: The Ida Mountains are referred to as “Mount Ida” in Greek mythology and are considered to be the place where the fate of the Trojan War was decided.
Endemic Species: There are over 800 plant species in the region, 77 of which are unique to the Kaz Mountains (endemic).
Source: Neredekal.com
9. Musaözü Nature Park - Eskişehir
Musaözü Nature Park, located 24 kilometres from Eskişehir city centre, also includes Musaözü Pond. In addition to camping, activities such as wildlife observation, scenery viewing, photography and angling can also be realised. Tent and caravan accommodation options are available in the campground.
Additional Suggestions
Pond Fishing: There are fish species such as carp and catfish in the pond, and angling is free.
Open All Year Round: The facility is open 12 months of the year; it is very popular in spring and fall.
10. Cehennem Deresi National Park - Mersin
Located in the Çamlıyayla district of Mersin, Cehennem Deresi National Park is an ideal place for campers with its waterfall and unique view. It is recommended to take water with you when you come to stay in this area, where there is a toilet facility, because natural springs can be very cold. It is free to light a fire in this area where no fee is charged. You can take buses to Sebil Plateau and walk from there.
Additional Suggestions
Plant Diversity: The park is home to trees typical of Mediterranean vegetation such as larch, cedar and juniper. Blueberries and forest strawberries are also grown.
Waterfall Routes: It takes about 1 hour of walking to reach the waterfall; the route is of medium difficulty.
Source: Tripadvisor
11. Talat Göktepe Çamlığı Campground - Anamur, Mersin
Located in Anamur district, Talat Göktepe Çamlığı Campground offers a great holiday opportunity with its sandy beach, which is approximately 3-4 km long and 500 m wide. There are also bungalow houses for accommodation in the area offering toilets, showers and buffet facilities. You can go to the area for a certain fee and set up your tent or rent one. It is possible to reach the Talat Göktepe Çamlığı area by minibuses departing from the centre.
Additional Suggestions
Sea Turtles: The beach around the campground may be a nesting ground for the endangered Caretta Caretta turtles. For this reason, light and noise restrictions may be applied at night.
Mammoth Trees: There are relatively old and tall pine trees in the area; the canopy is wide and remains cool in summer.
Source: Geziyoo.co