Where to Go Camping Near Istanbul in September
If you are staying in Istanbul, September is one of the most ideal times of the year for camping. With the scorching summer heat behind us, nature is still lush and green, the sea is still perfect for swimming, and you can enjoy the campfire in the cool evenings. There are places around Istanbul that are ideal not only for weekend getaways but also for longer nature holidays. In this article, you will find the best camping spots near Istanbul in September, along with transport and facility information, special tips for September, and practical suggestions to make the most of your camping experience! So, can you camp in Turkey in September? Where are the best camping spots in Turkey? And where to camp in Turkey in September? Let's explore together!
Ağva — The Magic of the Göksu River and the Black Sea
Ağva is located approximately two hours from Istanbul, on the Black Sea coast between the Göksu and Yeşilçay rivers. Ağva is ideal for weekend getaways, especially in September. You can camp by the sea and river and plan activities such as canoeing or hiking along the river.
Ağva has both organised campsites and free, local camping areas. Small businesses provide basic necessities such as tent rental and electricity. The unique view of the Black Sea at sunset and the cool evening air make camping in September a very enjoyable experience.
September tip: Secure your tent firmly as it can be windy in the evenings. Night-time temperatures can drop, so a good quality sleeping bag is essential.
Şile — Darlık Dam and Hacıllı Waterfall
Şile is located northeast of Istanbul and offers both seaside and inland camping options. The area around Darlık Dam offers a quiet camping experience by the lake, while the surroundings of Hacıllı Waterfall are perfect for nature walks and forest camping.
Basic facilities are generally not available in Şile. Therefore, it is necessary to prepare water, food, and supplies before camping. If you are looking for a quiet camping experience alone with nature, Şile's inland areas will not disappoint you.
September tip: Bring a waterproof groundsheet, towels and spare clothes as evenings can be humid. You can arrive early to avoid the weekend crowds.
Kilyos — The Closest Seaside Campsite to Istanbul
Kilyos, on the Black Sea coast, is ideal for those who want to combine the sea and camping. Campsites around Kumköy offer basic amenities such as electricity, showers, and toilets. Kilyos offers an opportunity for those who want to enjoy the sea, as the seawater is still warm in September.
The campsites in the area offer both comfort and the opportunity to be close to nature, with organised facilities and day-use beach services. Kilyos is also a popular choice for weekends due to its easy accessibility.
September tip: Set up your tent in a sheltered area on windy days. Bring layers for the evening chill after enjoying the sea.
Polonezköy Nature Park — Escape from the City
Polonezköy is located within the boundaries of Beykoz and is one of the closest forest camping areas to Istanbul. With its wooded walking trails, picnic areas and small camping sites, it is particularly popular for nature walks in September.
Polonezköy is a route where you can be alone with nature without straying too far from the city. As the area has nature park status, entrance fees and certain rules apply. Basic facilities for camping are available; however, it can get crowded on busy weekends.
September tip: Due to the crowds, it may be more enjoyable to go on weekdays or early in the morning. Find out about the entrance and camping rules.
Kerpe / Kefken — Seaside Camping on Rocky Shores
Kerpe and Kefken, on the Kandıra coast, offer the opportunity to camp by the sea a short distance from Istanbul. With their rocky beaches and clean sea, September is the perfect time to enjoy both the sea and camping.
Small businesses in the area offer both day trips and tent camping services. Some campsites also offer ready-made tent rentals. The view of the rocky shores at sunset is an unforgettable experience.
September tip: Night walks on rocky areas can be risky, so be prepared with a torch and suitable footwear.
Kıyıköy — Wild Nature and Quiet Coves
Although Kıyıköy is a little further from Istanbul (2–2.5 hours), it can still be considered a ‘close camping’ route in September. Selvez Cove and its surroundings are ideal for those who want a camping experience in the heart of nature.
The area offers a quiet, natural camping experience away from the crowds. However, as services are limited, you will need to prepare water, food and equipment in advance.
September tip: As it is less crowded at weekends, you can enjoy a quieter camping experience in the evenings. Plan your transport in advance.
Kartepe / Maşukiye — Mountain and Plateau Campsites
Kartepe and Maşukiye, located 1–2 hours from Istanbul, are ideal for camping enthusiasts with their forested and plateau areas. Nature parks such as Kuzuyayla offer suitable areas for tent and caravan camping.
In September, nighttime temperatures drop and misty landscapes form in the mornings, making the camping experience enchanting. Regular campsites have toilets, security, and picnic areas.
September tip: As nighttime temperatures will drop, a three-season sleeping bag and layered clothing are recommended. Secure your tent against the wind.
Ballıkayalar — Canyon and Adventure Camp
Ballıkayalar Nature Park is located near Gebze and is ideal for those who enjoy hiking, canyon walking and rock climbing. The canyon area offers shaded and dry areas, but campers must comply with the nature park rules.
Ballıkayalar is close to Istanbul and perfect for a nature-focused adventure camp. In September, you can enjoy hiking during the day and cool evenings.
September tip: If you are planning canyoning and climbing, the necessary equipment and experience are essential. Going alone can be risky.
Transport from Istanbul and Practical Information for September
Travel times by car from Istanbul to these campsites generally range from 1 to 3 hours. September is a period when summer traffic eases and weekends are more relaxed. At seaside campsites (Ağva, Kilyos, Kerpe, Kıyıköy), midday temperatures can still be warm, but mornings and evenings are noticeably cooler. In forest and highland areas (Polonezköy, Kartepe, Ballıkayalar), night-time temperatures drop significantly; therefore, a sleeping bag and layered clothing are essential.
Many nature parks charge an entrance fee or vehicle fee. It is necessary to check the camping permit, fire-lighting rules, and facility information before you go.
Final Notes: Choosing a Campsite
Sea + easy access: Ağva, Kilyos, Kerpe
Forest + short getaway: Polonezköy, Kartepe
Adventure + wilderness: Ballıkayalar, Kıyıköy
September is a period when nature calms down, temperatures stabilise, and crowds thin out, making campsites near Istanbul particularly enjoyable during this time. Checking the condition of the facilities, entrance fees, and camping rules in advance is essential for a smooth camping experience.
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