Lake Tortum is a landslide-dammed lake located within the borders of Erzurum province and is one of Turkey's most fascinating natural formations. Formed in the 1820s when a massive landslide blocked the Tortum River, the lake is approximately 8 km long and 1-2 km wide. Situated right next to the lake is the 48-meter-high Tortum Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in Turkey and the region's top natural attraction.
Camping at Lake Tortum offers a peaceful experience by the turquoise blue water, surrounded by pine forests, accompanied by the sound of the waterfall. In the cool mountain air of Erzurum, exploring historic Georgian churches, catching fish to cook by the lake, and sleeping under a star-filled night sky... Lake Tortum promises all of this.
Where is Lake Tortum?
Lake Tortum is located within the borders of the Tortum district in Erzurum province, 95 km from Erzurum city center and 80 km from Artvin. It lies at the foothills of the Eastern Black Sea Mountains, within the Çoruh River basin.
Location and GPS Coordinates
Lake Tortum Center: 40.3000° N, 41.5333° E
Key Points and Camping Areas:
- Tortum Waterfall: 40.3150° N, 41.5800° E - The most popular visiting spot
- Lakeside Camping Area (North): 40.3200° N, 41.5400° E
- Balıklı Lake Area: 40.3050° N, 41.5300° E - Ideal for fishing
- South Shore Camping Spot: 40.2850° N, 41.5200° E
- Tortum District Center: 40.3200° N, 41.5600° E
The lake level is at an altitude of approximately 1600 meters. The surrounding mountains reach heights of 2000-2500 meters.
Getting There by Private Car
Getting to Lake Tortum by private car is easy, and the roads are in good condition.
From Erzurum: Erzurum center → Oltu → Tortum (approx. 95 km, 1.5 hours). It is easily found by following the signs on the Erzurum-Artvin highway.
From Artvin: Artvin → Yusufeli → Tortum (approx. 80 km, 1.5 hours). The scenery between Yusufeli and Tortum is spectacular.
From Trabzon: Trabzon → Bayburt → Erzurum → Tortum (approx. 280 km, 4 hours).
From Kars: Kars → Erzurum → Tortum (approx. 280 km, 3.5-4 hours).
Access to the lakeside: The Erzurum-Artvin highway passes right by Lake Tortum. There are dirt/asphalt roads leading down to the lake from the main road. Tortum Waterfall is accessible via an asphalt road (2 km from the main road).
Parking: There is a parking lot at the entrance of Tortum Waterfall (paid, around 20 TL). Free parking areas are available at the camping spots along the lake shore.
Road conditions: The main roads are asphalt and in excellent condition. Some roads leading down to the lake are dirt but passable with standard vehicles.
Getting There by Public Transport
It is possible to reach Lake Tortum by public transport, but it requires transfers.
Getting to Erzurum:
By plane: Erzurum Airport (110 km to Tortum). There are direct flights from Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir. You can take a Havaş shuttle or taxi from the airport to Erzurum center.
By bus: There are bus services to Erzurum from cities like Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir. Companies like Metro, Özkaymak, and Erzurum Özlem operate these routes.
By train: The Ankara-Kars high-speed train line passes through Erzurum. It takes about 17 hours from Ankara to Erzurum.
Erzurum to Tortum: There are minibus services from Erzurum bus terminal to Tortum (3-4 times a day, around 08:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 6:00 PM). The journey takes 1.5 hours and costs 50-60 TL.
Artvin to Tortum: There are minibus services from Artvin to Tortum (2-3 times a day). The journey takes 1.5 hours.
From Tortum to the lake: You can reach the lakeside from the Tortum district center in a 10-15 minute walk. Tortum Waterfall is 2 km away and can be reached on foot or by taxi.
Returning: You can find a minibus from Tortum to Erzurum, and then take a bus/plane from Erzurum to other cities.
Camping Area Features and Facilities
There are many beautiful camping spots along the shores of Lake Tortum.
Free Camping Spots
1. North Shore Camping Area (Near the Main Road): A camping spot on the lake shore, close to the Erzurum-Artvin highway. It is the most accessible and popular spot. Flat grassy areas and pine trees provide shade.
Pros: Easy access, flat ground, pine shade, lake view Cons: Close to the main road, can be noisy, crowded on weekends
2. Balıklı Lake Area: Located in the middle section of the lake, this area is suitable for fishing. It is more secluded and quiet. Wooded area with natural camping spots.
Pros: Secluded, fishing opportunities, natural, wooded Cons: Some parts are rocky, requires driving on a dirt road (1-2 km)
3. South Shore Camping Spot: Located at the southern end of the lake, more remote and secluded. It is 5-6 km from the Tortum district center. Offers panoramic lake views.
Pros: Secluded, panoramic views, silence Cons: A bit far from the district center, dirt road
4. Near Tortum Waterfall: There are camping spots 500-1000 meters from the waterfall entrance. Sleeping to the sound of the waterfall is a unique experience.
Pros: Sound of the waterfall, very close to the waterfall, beautiful scenery Cons: Heavy day-tripper traffic, can be noisy
Important warnings:
- The lake shore can be swampy in some areas; choose solid ground
- Check if the area is private property
- The lake level can change depending on the season; set up camp slightly inland from the water's edge
- Don't forget to collect your trash
Water and Toilet Facilities
Water sources:
Lake water: Lake Tortum is a freshwater lake, but it is not recommended for drinking. There is a risk of pollution.
Tortum district center: There are fountains and markets in the district center where you can get drinking water. It's a 10-15 minute walk from the lake shore.
Tortum Waterfall: There is a fountain at the waterfall entrance; the tap water is drinkable.
Recommended: Stock up on water from the Tortum district center. Plan for 5-6 liters of water per person per day.
Toilet facilities:
Tortum Waterfall: There are toilets at the waterfall entrance (included in the paid entry).
Tortum district center: You can use the toilets in cafes and restaurants in the district center.
Lakeside camping areas: No toilets available. If you need to relieve yourself in nature:
- Stay at least 60-70 meters away from the lake shore
- Dig a hole 15-20 cm deep
- Throw toilet paper and wet wipes in the trash (pack them out)
- Use biodegradable soap
Showers: Some pensions and hotels in the Tortum district center offer daily shower services (10-15 TL). Alternatively, you can use a solar camping shower.
Fire Rules
Be careful when lighting fires around Lake Tortum:
Prohibited situations:
- Lighting fires in forested areas and under trees is strictly forbidden
- High fire risk during dry seasons (July-August)
- Fires are dangerous in windy weather
Permitted situations:
- You can light small, controlled fires in open, rocky, or sandy areas
- Only for cooking, within a stone ring
- In windless weather
Rules:
- Clear dry grass around the area before lighting a fire (2-3 meters in diameter)
- Do not leave the fire unattended
- Use plenty of water to extinguish it
- Ensure the ashes are completely cold
- Clean up the fire pit
Safest option: Using a portable gas stove or a barbecue. It is both safe and practical.
Is There Cell Phone Reception?
GSM coverage around Lake Tortum is generally good:
Turkcell: There is a 4.5G signal in the Tortum district center and on the main road. It usually has 4G reception on the lake shore. Turkcell offers the best coverage.
Vodafone: Good reception in the district center and main spots. It may drop to 3G in some parts of the lake shore.
Turkcell: Similar performance. 4.5G in the center and main road, 4G/3G on the lake shore.
Internet: Mobile internet is good in the Tortum district center. Internet speed may drop on the lake shore but remains usable.
Emergency: Inform someone (family, friend, or hotel) of your location before camping.
Best Camping Season and Weather
Due to its high altitude (1600m) and continental climate, Lake Tortum has a cold and wet climate.
Seasonal Recommendations
Spring (April-June): One of the suitable periods for camping. Daytime 12-22°C, nighttime 4-10°C. April is still cold and rainy. May-June is ideal. Nature is green, flowers are blooming. Tortum Waterfall is at its strongest (fed by melting snow).
Pros: Green nature, strongest waterfall, cool weather, fewer mosquitoes Cons: Rain risk in April-May, cold nights
Summer (July-August): The most ideal camping season. Daytime 22-28°C, nighttime 10-16°C. Clear skies, little rain. The water of Tortum Waterfall decreases but is still impressive. Nights are comfortable.
Pros: Warm weather, little rain, long days, comfortable night temperatures Cons: The most crowded period, waterfall water decreases
Autumn (September-October): The second ideal period. Daytime 15-24°C, nighttime 6-12°C. Autumn colors are wonderful. September is still warm, October is cooler. Fewer tourists.
Pros: Perfect weather, less crowded, autumn scenery, clear air Cons: Can get cold early by late October, increased rain risk
Winter (November-March): For experienced winter campers. Daytime between -5 and +5°C, nighttime between -15 and -5°C. Heavy snowfall. The lake shore freezes. Tortum Waterfall is fascinating in its frozen state.
Pros: Unique frozen waterfall scenery, completely secluded, snow landscapes Cons: Very cold, heavy snow, roads may close, winter gear is essential
Conclusion: The most ideal periods are May-June and July-September.
Temperature and Precipitation Information
Average monthly temperatures:
- March: Min -3°C / Max 7°C
- April: Min 2°C / Max 13°C
- May: Min 7°C / Max 18°C
- June: Min 11°C / Max 23°C
- July: Min 14°C / Max 27°C
- August: Min 14°C / Max 27°C
- September: Min 10°C / Max 23°C
- October: Min 5°C / Max 16°C
- November: Min 0°C / Max 9°C
Precipitation: The rainiest months are April-May and November-December. Summer months (July-August) are relatively dry but rain is possible. Average annual precipitation is 600-700 mm.
Snow: Snowfall occurs between November and April. Snow depth can reach 30-80 cm in winter. Tortum Waterfall freezes completely in winter.
Wind: The area around the lake can be windy, especially in the afternoon. The breeze blowing from the mountains is refreshing.
Lake water temperature: 14-16°C in June, 16-18°C in July-August (cold for swimming).
Nearby Attractions and Activities
There are many places to explore in and around Lake Tortum.
Hiking Trails
1. Lake Tortum Loop Hike (12-14 km, 4-5 hours): There is a partially marked hiking trail around the lake. A full loop is difficult (some sections are impassable), but walking along the north and south shores is enjoyable.
Route: North shore → Balıklı area → South shore → Return Scenery: Turquoise lake, pine forests, mountain views
2. Tortum Waterfall Nature Walk (2 km, 30 minutes, easy): A walk from the Tortum district center to the waterfall. Easy and suitable for families.
3. İşhan Church Hike (5 km, 1.5 hours): From Tortum to İşhan village to visit the 10th-11th century Georgian church. Historic structure, beautiful scenery.
4. Öşkvank Monastery Trip: A 10th-century Georgian monastery near Yusufeli. 30 km from Tortum, accessible by car. Great for walking and exploring.
Tips:
- Hike early in the morning or in the evening (cooler hours)
- Carry plenty of water
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Keep your camera with you
Water Activities
Lake Tortum offers some opportunities for water activities:
Fishing: Lake Tortum is rich in trout and carp. A fishing permit is required (can be obtained from the Directorate of Fisheries). You can rent a boat from local fishermen.
Canoeing: Canoe rentals are available during certain periods. The lake is calm and suitable for canoeing.
Swimming: The lake water is very cold (16-18°C at its warmest). Swimming is not very common, but the brave can give it a try.
Photography: Tortum Waterfall and the lake offer spectacular photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset are the best times for photography. The frozen waterfall in winter is unique.
Alternative activities:
- Visiting Tortum Waterfall: One of the highest waterfalls in Turkey (48 meters). Entry is paid (20-30 TL). It can be viewed from observation terraces.
- Historic Georgian Churches: Georgian-era churches like İşhan, Öşkvank, and Hamamlı are very impressive. Their architecture and fresco decorations are a must-see.
- Bird Watching: The area around the lake is a stopover for migratory birds. Bird watching can be done in the spring and autumn months.
- Winter Photography: The frozen waterfall and snowy lake scenery in winter are magnificent. Ideal for experienced winter photographers.
Camping Gear Recommendations
Essential gear for camping at Lake Tortum.
Must-Bring Items
Tent:
- 3-4 season tent (weather is variable, can be cold)
- Waterproof (min 3000mm)
- Wind-resistant
- Model with a mosquito net (in summer months)
Sleep gear:
- Insulation mat or inflatable sleeping pad
- Spring/autumn: Sleeping bag with a 0 to -5°C comfort rating
- Summer: 5-10°C comfort rating
- Thermal sleeping bag liner (for extra warmth)
- Pillow
Water and food:
- 10-15 liters of water carrying capacity
- Portable gas stove
- Cooking set
- Grill/pan for cooking fresh fish
- Trash bags
Clothing (layered):
- Thermal underwear
- Fleece mid-layer
- Puffer jacket or thick fleece
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer
- Gloves, beanie (for the evenings)
- Spare socks
- Raincoat
- Comfortable hiking shoes
Lighting:
- Headlamp
- Flashlight
- Spare batteries
- Powerbank
Health and hygiene:
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Insect repellent (in summer months)
- Personal medications
- Wet wipes
Communication:
- Fully charged phone
- Powerbank
- Map app with GPS
Region-Specific Recommendations
Additional recommendations for Lake Tortum:
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Staying warm: Evenings are cool; thermal underwear, fleece, and a jacket are essential.
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Raincoat: Weather is variable, sudden rain can occur. Bring a waterproof outer layer or raincoat.
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Fishing gear: A simple fishing rod if you want to fish. The lake is full of fish.
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Photography gear: The waterfall and lake scenery are spectacular. Bring a tripod, wide-angle lens, and extra batteries.
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Thermos: A thermos for hot tea/coffee. Evenings are cool, and a hot drink will boost your morale.
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Wind protection: The lake shore can be windy. Bring a windproof jacket and secure your tent well.
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Water shoes: The lake shore is rocky in some places; water shoes are useful.
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Binoculars: For bird watching and viewing distant scenery.
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Cooler bag: To keep the fish you catch fresh.
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Trash bags: Large trash bags to collect and pack out all your garbage.
Safety Tips and Rules
Important points for a safe camping experience at Lake Tortum.
Wildlife Warnings
The area around Lake Tortum is generally safe:
Snakes: Snakes may be seen around the lake and on the hills. They are usually harmless water snakes. Vipers are rare.
Precautions:
- Pay attention to bushes and rock piles
- Be careful in the morning and evening
- Wear thick shoes
Insects: There may be mosquitoes in the summer months. The lake shore is humid.
Precautions:
- Use mosquito repellent
- Keep tent windows closed
- Wear long sleeves in the evening
Dogs: There may be stray dogs in the Tortum district center and villages. They are generally harmless.
Wild Animals: There are small mammals like foxes, jackals, and martens. They are harmless, but keep your food sealed.
Lakeside safety:
- The lake water is cold (16-18°C); be careful when swimming
- Keep children under supervision by the lake
- The lake level can change; set up camp slightly inland from the water's edge
Emergency Information
Emergency phone numbers:
- 112 - Emergency Medical Services
- 155 - Police
- 156 - Gendarmerie
- 110 - Fire Department
Nearest medical facilities:
- Tortum District State Hospital: 0442 631 20 24 (Tortum center, ~2 km)
- Erzurum Regional Training and Research Hospital: 0442 232 55 55 (Erzurum, ~95 km)
Nearest gendarmerie:
- Tortum Gendarmerie Station: 156
Safety advice:
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Weather: Weather changes quickly in mountainous areas. Check weather forecasts. Sudden rain can occur.
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Water safety: The lake water is very cold. Use a life jacket if you don't know how to swim. Do not enter the water while intoxicated.
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Cold risk: Evenings can get very cold (especially in spring/autumn). Dress warmly and be careful of the risk of hypothermia.
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Theft risk: Do not leave your valuables in visible places.
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Fire risk: Fires are dangerous in forested areas. Avoid lighting fires; use a gas stove instead. Extinguish cigarette butts carefully.
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Getting lost: The area around the lake is open, so the risk of getting lost is low. Still, use a map with GPS.
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Waterfall safety: Be careful when approaching Tortum Waterfall. There are slippery rocks. Do not cross the barriers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it legal to camp for free at Lake Tortum? A: Yes, camping in open areas along the lake shore is not prohibited. Make sure it is not private property. Don't forget to collect your trash.
Q: Is there an entrance fee for Tortum Waterfall? A: Yes, entry to Tortum Waterfall is paid (around 20-30 TL, subject to change). You can watch the waterfall from the observation terraces.
Q: Is the lake water suitable for swimming? A: The lake water is very cold (16-18°C at its warmest). It's not very suitable for swimming, but the brave can try. Be careful.
Q: Is a fishing permit required? A: Yes, an amateur fishing license is required to fish (can be obtained from the Directorate of Fisheries). Follow local rules.
Q: Are there markets in Tortum? A: Yes, there are markets, grocery stores, and restaurants in the Tortum district center. You can meet all your needs there.
Q: Can you camp in the winter? A: It is possible for experienced winter campers, but it is very cold (down to -15°C at night). Heavy snowfall. Winter gear (4-season tent, -10°C sleeping bag) is essential. The frozen waterfall scenery is unique.
Q: How do you get to İşhan Church? A: It is 5 km from Tortum to İşhan village. It can be reached on foot or by car. The 10th-11th century Georgian church is an architectural marvel.
Q: Does Tortum Waterfall freeze? A: Yes, Tortum Waterfall freezes completely in the winter months (January-February). A magnificent sight. Ideal for winter photographers.
Q: Is there electricity by the lake? A: No, there is no electricity in the camping areas. You can charge your phone in cafes and restaurants in the Tortum district center. Carry a powerbank.
Q: Can I light a fire? A: It is strictly forbidden in forested areas. You can light small, controlled fires in open, rocky areas. A portable gas stove is much safer.
Related Content:
- Eastern Anatolia Free Camping Areas Guide →
- Best Free Camping Areas in Turkey →
- Mount Nemrut Camping Guide →
- Munzur Valley Camping Guide →
- Lakeside Camping Tips →
- Safe Camping Guide →
Wishing you an unforgettable camping experience in the turquoise waters of Lake Tortum and the magnificent scenery of Tortum Waterfall! 🏕️💧
