Affordable alternatives to pricey Turkish hotels: Top camping sites

Mersin’s Erdemli district experienced a surge in camping popularity during the nine-day Eid al-Adha holiday. Over 40,000 tourists opted for glamping tents, bungalows and caravan camps.

The Talat Goktepe Nature Park, Su Beach and Tobank Facilities were particularly popular, blending forest and seaside experiences.

Speaking about the high interest from both local and international tourists, Mayor Mustafa Kara said: “Our facilities saw significant interest from both local and international tourists. We offer a unique experience with pine forests and seaside access, making Erdemli a preferred destination.”

Increasing prices in Türkiye cause shift toward camping

In the first half of 2024, Türkiye experienced a significant increase in vacation costs due to high inflation rates. This economic pressure has driven both locals and tourists to seek more affordable travel options, with camping emerging as a popular alternative.

Türkiye’s annual inflation rate reached 75.45% in May 2024, significantly impacting the tourism sector. Hotel prices had already surged by an average of 85.5% in 2023, with major tourist destinations like Istanbul and Antalya seeing increases of up to 94%​.

The average price of a standard hotel room in popular areas has significantly increased, making vacations more expensive and less accessible for many travelers.

Camping offers alternative to expensive accommodations

With rising costs, camping has become a more cost-effective travel option. Despite overall inflation, the cost of camping gear and site fees has remained relatively stable. This affordability has led to a significant rise in camping bookings.

 U.K.-based campsite booking website Pitchup reported a 40% increase in glamping pod bookings and a 20% increase in shepherd’s huts bookings, reflecting the growing trend toward budget-friendly outdoor accommodations.

The traditional camping season has expanded, with a global 25% increase in fall camping bookings and a 156% rise in winter camping arrivals since 2019. This trend highlights a shift in travel behavior as more people seek to enjoy the outdoors year-round, leveraging the affordability and accessibility of camping.

Rising fuel costs and increased environmental awareness have driven a 17% rise in searches for campgrounds accessible by public transportation. This shift toward sustainable travel reflects a broader trend of eco-friendly tourism, with many campers opting for off-grid experiences to reduce their carbon footprint and reconnect with nature. “Campers are actively seeking eco-friendly travel options to reduce their carbon footprints,” notes a report from Pitchup.

With the rising costs of traditional vacations, camping has emerged as a budget-friendly and environmentally-conscious alternative. Here are some of the top camping sites in Türkiye that offer a mix of natural beauty, comprehensive amenities and a variety of activities.

Top camping sites

1. Teos Art Camp, Seferihisar (Izmir)

• Facilities: WC, showers, electricity, kitchen, laundry and 24/7 security.
• Activities: Culture, cycling, relaxation, sightseeing, trekking, volleyball, yoga.
• How to get there: Located in Seferihisar, accessible via local buses or a short drive from Izmir.

2. Caravan Camping, Dikili (Izmir)

• Facilities: Water, beach, electricity, toilets, WiFi, showers, kitchen, refrigerator, parking.
• Activities: Culture, diving, swimming, fishing, cycling, relaxation, sightseeing, trekking, volleyball.
• How to Get There: Located in Dikili, easily accessible by local transportation from Izmir.

3. Kalemlik Forest Camp, Menderes (Izmir)

• Facilities: Water, beach, electricity, toilets, WiFi, showers, refrigerator, parking, restaurant.
• Activities: Culture, diving, swimming, fishing, cycling, relaxation, sightseeing, trekking, volleyball.
• How to Get There: Located in Menderes, accessible via local buses or a drive from Izmir.

4. Sahil Kamp Istanbul, Sile

• Facilities: Toilets, showers, beach access, restaurant.
• Activities: Swimming, beach activities, relaxation.
• How to Get There: Accessible by bus line 139S from Uskudar or by car.

5. Suluklu Lake Campsite, Bolu

• Facilities: Toilets, dumpsters, firewood for sale.
• Activities: Hiking, nature observation.
• How to Get There: Requires a vehicle for access.

6. Sogucak Plateau, Sakarya

• Facilities: Outhouses, family-friendly.
• Activities: Hiking, star-gazing, sports.
• How to Get There: Accessible by car; it is recommended to use the road through Ilmiye.

7. Sultanpinar Plateau, Bolu

• Facilities: Rustic village nearby, no bathroom facilities.
• Activities: Hiking, exploring multiple plateaus.
• How to Get There: Requires a vehicle for access.

8. Agva Orman Evleri (Istanbul)

• Facilities: Comfortable forest lodges, basic amenities.
• Activities: Nature walks, relaxation, sightseeing.
• How to Get There: Accessible by local buses or a drive from Istanbul.

9. Hizir Kamp, Kazdaglari (Balikesir)

• Facilities: Breakfast and dinner included, rustic lodges, wooden and stone houses.
• Activities: Swimming in the river, hiking.
• How to Get There: Accessible via local transportation from Edremit or a drive from Balikesir.

10. Olympos Beach, Antalya

• Facilities: Beach access, toilets, showers, electricity.
• Activities: Swimming, hiking, exploring ancient ruins.
• How to Get There: Located in Olympos National Park, accessible via local transportation from Antalya or a short drive from Kemer​

These camping sites provide a mix of natural beauty, comprehensive amenities, and a variety of activities, ensuring a memorable and affordable outdoor experience for all types of travelers.

Whether you seek the serene forests of Izmir or the dynamic landscapes near Istanbul, these spots are perfect for your summer 2024 adventure.