Başkonuş Yaylası

Başkonuş Yaylası is a natural plateau and recreational area located within the boundaries of the Onikişubat district of Kahramanmaraş province, at an elevation range of approximately 1300 to 1800 metres, surrounded by forests.^【1】 The region features a vegetation cover including tree species such as oriental beech, cedar, oak, juniper and black pine, as well as orchids, salep and various endemic plants. It also provides habitat for wildlife elements such as deer and migratory birds. The plateau was established in 1987 as a deer breeding station and later evolved into an area where natural life is preserved and tourism activities are conducted.^【2】 Today it offers facilities suitable for ecotourism including recreational areas, accommodation options, camping sites and walking trails.

Başkonuş Yaylası is situated in the northwestern part of the Onikişubat district of Kahramanmaraş province, approximately 55 kilometres from the city centre.^【3】 Access to the plateau is via the Kahramanmaraş–Kayseri highway, continuing from the Andırın junction. The area is surrounded by a topographical structure featuring a public forest to the north, the summit areas of Başkonuş Mountain at approximately 1780 metres elevation to the south, and ridge lines to the east.^【4】

The plateau consists of extensive flat areas enclosed by forested steep slopes and includes varying elevation levels. The average elevation of the region ranges between approximately 1300 and 1325 metres, with some areas reaching up to 1800 metres.^【5】

The vegetation cover includes tree species such as oriental beech, cedar, oak, juniper, black pine, red pine, silver fir and oriental hornbeam. Shrub species such as kermes oak, mastic, sumac, wild strawberry and spindle tree are also widespread. The floral composition includes herbaceous plants such as hyacinth, tulip, reverse tulip, cyclamen and mountain hyacinth.

Başkonuş Yaylası was established in 1987 as a deer breeding station. Subsequently, the deer raised there were released into the natural environment, transforming the area into one that supports natural life. The presence of a deer population in the region is documented.

The plateau’s ecosystem provides habitat for various bird species alongside its forest cover. It is noted that migratory birds use the area seasonally. Different wildlife species can be observed within the forested areas, and deer herds are frequently encountered along walking trails.

Historically, the plateau was registered in 1995 as a Type B forest recreational area and upgraded to a Type A recreational area in 2006. In 2007, the area’s size was expanded from 10 hectares to 16 hectares. Beginning in 2011, Başkonuş Yaylası transitioned to a privately operated status, with management assumed by the Erdoğanyılmaz family. During this period, the area developed infrastructure and service units to support tourism and recreation.

Başkonuş Yaylası is visited during summer and winter seasons as part of nature tourism and is used for ecotourism activities. Within the plateau, nature walks, trekking routes, cycling trails, photography events and various nature-based activities are conducted.

The area features short, medium and long-distance walking trails, each designed for different levels of difficulty. Along these trails, visitors can observe the forest ecosystem and wildlife elements.

^{Başkonuş Yaylası Kış Mevsimi (}Kültür ve Turizm Bakanalığı⁾

Başkonuş Yaylası also supports camping activities under ecotourism. In addition to tent and caravan camping areas, bungalow accommodation units are available. Within the recreational area at the entrance to the plateau, various social usage spaces are provided. Visitor activity continues throughout the year due to the plateau’s accessibility under different seasonal conditions.

Outdoor activities such as nature walks, trekking, cycling and photography are conducted at Başkonuş Yaylası. The plateau features walking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels, all of which pass through forested areas.

Camping activities are carried out in designated tent and caravan areas, with bungalow accommodation options also available. The recreational area at the entrance to the plateau includes picnic zones, children’s play areas and various social facilities. Wildlife observation and photography of the natural landscape are among the activities offered at the plateau.

At Başkonuş Yaylası, practices are implemented to protect the environment, ensure the sustainable use of natural resources and maintain ecosystem continuity. Management activities prioritize reducing negative environmental impacts, waste separation at source and recycling processes.

Efforts are made to promote the efficient use of water, energy and natural resources, with emphasis placed on selecting environmentally sensitive and recyclable materials. Under waste management protocols, hazardous and non-hazardous waste are classified, stored appropriately and delivered to licensed institutions.

Within the framework of energy efficiency, initiatives are underway to reduce consumption, monitor usage and improve performance. Educational programs are conducted to raise staff awareness of environmental issues and promote sustainability. Conservation efforts for wildlife include care and rehabilitation of animals found in nature, followed by their release into suitable natural habitats.

Today, Başkonuş Yaylası operates as an ecotourism destination visited during summer and winter seasons as part of nature tourism. The area is frequented by both domestic and international tourists and contributes to the dynamics of nature tourism.

The plateau offers opportunities for camping, nature walks, accommodation and photography, supported by its natural structure, forest ecosystem and wildlife. Accommodation units, camping areas and recreational facilities within the area are open to visitors.

Through national and international promotion campaigns, the tourism potential of Başkonuş Yaylası is being highlighted on various platforms, increasing its recognition as an ecotourism destination. In this context, the plateau is recognized as one of Kahramanmaraş’s key nature tourism areas.