Turkey's caravan tourism booms: solar panels and new site in Hasankeyf

Residents of the Riva neighborhood in Beykoz, Istanbul, are protesting the uncontrolled parking of dozens of caravans along the coastline and in forested areas. According to HaberTürk TV, about 50 caravans have occupied public spaces, causing noise and pollution. Locals say access to the shore is blocked and the area has turned into a shantytown. Caravan owners blame the lack of affordable, licensed caravan parks.

Rising accommodation costs in Turkey are driving tourists to choose caravans over hotels. In the Çukurova region and other resort areas, demand for caravan rentals has increased significantly this summer. A facility in Kemer, Antalya, offers fully equipped four-person caravans with air conditioning, TV, internet, kitchen equipment, and a private gazebo. The nightly rate is 2500 TL in July and August, and 2000 TL in September, regardless of the number of guests (up to four).

In the 2026 summer season, caravans have occupied public beaches and free parking lots along the Aegean, Mediterranean, and Marmara coasts, turning them into semi-permanent caravan neighborhoods. Local residents and day-trippers report lack of space, environmental pollution, and violation of the principle of public coastal access. The municipality of İznik ordered all caravans removed from public areas by July 20, 2026, threatening legal action. Turkish law distinguishes parking from camping: deploying awnings, furniture, or leaving waste constitutes illegal occupation.

Afyonkarahisar municipality organizes a three-day family camping event with tents and caravans from July 24 to 26. Proceeds will be donated to the Mehmetçik Vakfı fund.

A parked caravan caught fire on 32 Evler Plajı beach in Karasu, Sakarya, due to a suspected gas leak. The flames spread to a nearby motorcycle. Firefighters prevented further spread, but both vehicles were completely destroyed.

A thermal complex in Çobanlar, Afyonkarahisar, has added a motorhome park. Entry fee is 300 Turkish lira, including towel, slippers, pestemal, and bonnet. The park offers electricity and water hookups and barbecue areas. The owner claims the park is unique in Afyon.