History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore
Shaped in a volcanic crater/landslide basin at an altitude of 1,522 meters, between the Kavak and Işık mountains ranges, Çubuk Karagöl Nature Park is the most fairytale natural wonder of Ankara. The nature park was registered in 2011; It resembles the highland lakes of the Black Sea with its dark emerald reflection on the lake mirror of the dense Scots pine, larch, oak and poplar forests surrounding it. It is known that the lake was named "Karagol" due to the dark color of its deep waters. According to local legend, the lake is connected to underground rivers through tunnels whose bottom is unknown, and it is said that dervishes retreated by this lake and contemplated the secret of nature's creation. It is the apple of the eye of nature photographers and campers in all seasons. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features
The nature park is located at an exact altitude of 1,522 meters. It is a volcanic bowl pond surrounded by pine, oak, mountain poplar and rich highland meadows. Due to its high altitude, a mountain microclimate prevails in the summer months, which is 8-10 degrees cooler than in the capital; In autumn, there is an extraordinary riot of colors. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees
•Entrance Fee:Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP) vehicle entrance tariff is applied (is_free: false).•Visiting Hours and Days:It is open to visitors 7 days a week between 08:00 - 20:30.•Rules, Safety and Stroller/Disabled Access: Entering the pond, swimming and fishing are strictly prohibited. Due to the danger of fire, fire can only be lit in camellias with designated stoves. The wooden pier and smooth walking path around the lake are suitable for baby strollers.•Facilities and Facilities:Wooden viewing piers, camellias, picnic tables, countryside restaurant, prayer room, children's playground and WC are available. Transportation, Public Transit Routes and Exact Location•Address / Open Location:Karagöl Mevkii, Çubuk / Ankara.•Road Condition and Vehicle Availability: It is 28 km from Çubuk district center and 68 km from Ankara centre. You can safely go up to the lake gate via the completely asphalt mountain road from Çubuk with all kinds of passenger vehicles.•Real Public Transportation Information: Municipality and private shuttles depart from Çubuk center to Karagöl on weekends; A personal vehicle or taxi is required on weekdays.•Parking Availability:There is ample open parking at the entrance gate and around the lake. Contextual Experience Tips, Photography and Local Gastronomy•Best Photo Spots and Frames:Perfect mirror reflections of Scots pine and poplar trees falling from the wooden pier into the lake water; The color symphony of golden yellow, orange and red leaves, especially in October-November.•Nature Walk:Walking on the 1.2 km circular wooden platform around the lake and storing oxygen refreshes the soul.•Local Gastronomy Recommendations:Samovar tea should be brewed by the lake; You should have a nature breakfast with the famous cherry jam, butter and flatbread from Çubuk.