Abdullah Plateau is a plateau area located at an altitude of 1,450 meters at the foot of Köse Mountain in the Kargı district of Çorum, known for its Scots pine forests and natural water sources; it is used for camping, picnicking, and trekking.
Abdullah Plateau is 26 kilometers from Kargı town center and 114 kilometers from Çorum city center. It is located at the foot of Köse Mountain, 1,450 meters above sea level. Its location in the transition zone between the Black Sea and Central Anatolia has given it both a cool climate and a mixed forest texture of Scots pine and black pine.
The plateau has national park status and infrastructure such as a picnic area for 1000 people, a 22-bed accommodation unit, and a restaurant for 120 people. However, visitor comments frequently state that some of these structures are disused and the bungalow houses are not yet actively used. While the natural water source and the unspoiled state of the forest are praised, lack of maintenance and toilet arrangements are criticized. There is a 12-kilometer trail for trekking and equestrian nature tourism. Along this route, an interesting tree called Otuz İki Çatal Çam (Thirty-Two Forked Pine) and the fire watchtower in Oynar Plateau attract attention.
The plateau is a good starting point for those who want to climb the 2,050-meter summit of Köse Mountain. The summit offers an open observation area with a 360-degree view of the surroundings. Some people go there in the summer months to escape the heat. However, some visitors state that they did not find the coolness they expected, and the temperature difference with the city center sometimes remained low. The annual Kargı Fair is also an event that keeps the plateau's yaylacılık (transhumance) tradition alive.
Guide's Note
When to Visit
The plateau is preferred in summer for cooling down, as its high altitude at the foot of Köse Mountain lowers the air temperature. But beware: some visitors write that they did not find the coolness they expected on extremely hot days. It is stated that there is about a 10-degree difference from the city center, so it is useful to bring a cardigan or jacket. June to September is the liveliest period. Roads become more accessible after the snow melts.
How to Get There
You need to follow the Çorum, Osmancık, Kargı highway, pass Hacıhamza Town, then turn left and drive another 12 km. The distance to Kargı district center is 26 km, and to Çorum city center is 114 km. There is no public transport to the plateau, no bus or minibus services. Therefore, you must go with your own vehicle. The total travel time from Çorum city center is approximately 2 hours.
How Much Time to Allocate
Half a day is enough for just a picnic and a short walk. Those who want to complete the trekking trail (12 km) or climb to the summit of Köse Mountain should plan for a full day. If you are considering camping, a 1-2 night stay will allow you to see both the forest and the night view.
Suggested Route
Upon arriving at the plateau, first take a break at the picnic area and get acquainted with the surroundings. Then, enter the 12 km trail to see the Otuz İki Çatal Çam, an interesting stop along the route. If you have time and are fit enough, you can climb to the fire watchtower in Oynar Plateau and observe the surroundings with binoculars. If you are planning a more ambitious trip, let the ascent to the summit of Köse Mountain (2,050 m) be the final step.
Things to Pay Attention To
A point frequently mentioned in visitor comments is that the plateau's infrastructure is disorganized. Bungalow houses and the hotel building are disused, and toilets can sometimes be closed or unmaintained. There are comments stating that the prefabricated structures are scattered. Therefore, if you are planning accommodation, it is advisable to confirm by phone beforehand to avoid disappointment. The waterfall section is generally liked, but some say its naturalness has been somewhat spoiled.
Photo Spots
Paths through the pine forest, the surroundings of the natural water source, and the 360-degree view from the summit of Köse Mountain are among the most shared photos. The Otuz İki Çatal Çam is also an interesting subject for photography with its unique structure. In the morning, fog can settle over the forest, adding a special atmosphere to the landscape.
General Information
Abdullah Plateau is protected with national park status and is located on Köse Mountain, Çorum's highest mountain. The long-standing yaylacılık (transhumance) tradition in the region has ensured that this place is used not only for animal husbandry but also as a social gathering point. The annual Kargı Fair is an indicator that this tradition is still alive. On Google, it has a medium-high satisfaction level with a 4.3 rating and 168 reviews. Its nature is praised, while maintenance deficiencies are criticized.
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