Tourists in Turkey switch to caravans due to high hotel prices

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.

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 Family Tent and Caravan Camping event from July 24 to 26 at the Afyon Motor Sports Center. Proceeds will be donated to the Mehmetçik Vakfı foundation.

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.

In the Düzler and Kastri areas of Erdek, Turkey, local residents are complaining about caravans parking haphazardly, leaving trash and causing visual pollution. Complaints to the Erdek municipality have gone unanswered.