Antalya caravan owners protest lack of parking and bans

The second Kınık Karavan Fest 2026 was held in Kınık village, Pazaryeri district, Bilecik province. The six-day event, from July 3 to 8, attracted 437 caravans and over 50 tents from various Turkish provinces and abroad. Activities included concerts, folk dances, lectures for caravan users, and awareness sessions by the gendarmerie on cybercrime and violence against women. Organizers stated the festival was volunteer-run and aimed to promote the region's cultural and tourism potential.

Mert Okkaoğlu, president of the National Camping and Caravan Federation, reminded caravan users of six basic rules: park without taking up extra space, do not leave the caravan in one spot for months, do not discharge grey water or waste into nature, avoid noise at night, leave the campsite clean, and do not occupy parking spaces for long periods. He stated that caravan freedom is only sustainable with respect for nature and others.

About 80% of caravan manufacturers in Antalya have closed due to rising raw material costs and a shortage of skilled craftsmen. The sector, which boomed during the pandemic, now faces a severe downturn.

The Izmir Camping and Caravan Association issued a statement urging caravan owners not to leave their vehicles on beaches for extended periods. The statement emphasized that beaches are common areas, not private property, and that leaving caravans in one place for months harms nature and the rights of other users. The association warned that otherwise, municipalities may impose stricter sanctions and bans.

The second Kınık Caravan Fest 2026 was held in Kınık village, Pazaryeri district, Bilecik province. The event brought together 437 caravans and over 50 tents from across Turkey and abroad. The festival took place from July 3 to 8 as part of the 2026 Sheikh Edebali Year activities. The program included concerts, folk dances, literary events, and informational conferences for caravan users. Organizers plan to hold the festival for the third time next year.

The municipality of Artvin is creating a modern caravan parking area on the festival grounds of Kafkasör after the 45th Culture, Tourism and Art Festival. Drainage work has been completed on the municipally-owned plot, and toilets, showers and a small kitchen are planned. The site will charge a fee, with revenue covering maintenance and cleaning. The project aims to boost caravan tourism in the region.