Melikler Plateau

The best time to visit is between June and September. Heavy snowfall in winter usually closes access roads, making winter visits almost impossible. Even in summer, nights remain cool. Visitors note that the chill coming off the snowy Dedegöl peaks is palpable, advising warm clothing and a good sleeping bag. During public holidays like Eid al-Adha and summer vacations, the campsite can fill up with 30-40 tents. Choose weekdays or off-peak dates if you are looking for a tranquil camping trip.

The plateau is reached via an unpaved road branching south from the Vali Çeşmesi area on the Yenişarbademli-Aksu highway; the plateau area is reached 2 km along this road. If coming from the east via the shore of Lake Beyşehir, entering through Yenişarbademli is easier; if coming from the west, the Aksu entrance is preferable. It is accessible by all private vehicles. If taking public transport, take a minibus from Isparta to Eğirdir, then transfer to a Yenişarbademli minibus, and walk the final 2-3 kilometers.

An overnight camping stay gives a sufficient impression. Those with extra time can stay 2 days to climb Mount Dedegöl. Visitor reviews also recommend this timeframe: setting up camp and enjoying the views on day one, and reserving the second day for mountain climbing or nearby hiking trails.

Two main hiking routes start from the plateau: paths leading to Pınargözü Cave and Yaka Canyon. For those seeking a more ambitious challenge, there is the summit climb up Mount Dedegöl. The annual Dedegöl Mountaineering Festival, organized every May by ETUDOSD, brings national attention to this route. The eastern side of the plateau touches the boundary of Kızıldağ National Park, where camping is prohibited.

There is no electric lighting on the plateau, so bring your own flashlight or headlamp for the night. Toilets are available, but visitor reviews note irregular maintenance. There are separate facilities for men and women, but complaints about cleanliness are common. Trash containers can fill up quickly during busy periods, so plan to pack out your waste. One review notes that access to the region may be seasonally restricted between June 1 and November 1 to prevent forest fires. Confirm the current status with the forestry administration before traveling.

The flat clearing on the upper section of the plateau acts as a viewing platform overlooking the nomad camp area below. The entirety of Mount Dedegöl is visible from here. The region is particularly prized for night photography: near-zero light pollution allows for clear shots of the stars and the Milky Way. One visitor described watching clouds drift around Mount Dedegöl under the moonlight as one of their favorite memories.

Located within the borders of Yaka Village in the Yenişarbademli district of Isparta, the plateau sits on a flat area at an altitude of 1,735 meters. Surrounding the campsite enclosed by pine forests are seasonal settlements used by Yörük nomads. With a 4.6 rating and over 550 reviews on Google, it stands as one of the region's favorite camping destinations. Most visitors praise the stunning scenery and fresh air while pointing to facility maintenance as an area for improvement.

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