Karaahmetli Nature Park

Karaahmetli Nature Park is located within the boundaries of Kırıkkale province in the Central Anatolia Region. The park is situated near Karaahmetli Village, on the western shore of the Kapulukaya Dam Lake, between the districts of Bahşili and Keskin. Covering an area of 107 hectares, it was designated as a "nature park" by a Council of Ministers decision published in the Official Gazette No. 27297 on 23 July 2009, under Law No. 2873 on National Parks.

Karaahmetli Nature Park.(Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Türkiye)

Natural Features and Ecosystem

The nature park lies within the catchment area of the Kapulukaya Dam Lake on the Kızılırmak River. The area consists of 95% steppe (semi-arid grassland), 3% agricultural land, and 2% reforestation zones. The park’s distinctive topography, with deep valleys and the scenic water landscape of the dam lake, provides favorable natural conditions for various recreational activities.

Flora (Vegetation)

Floristic studies conducted in Karaahmetli Nature Park have identified 235 species, 27 subspecies, and 6 varieties belonging to 201 genera across 51 families. Within the park boundaries, seven endemic plant species are found, including Bear’s Paw, Rabbit’s Ear, Madwort, Cleome, Geven, and Ankara Clover.

Fauna (Animal Life)

Within the park and its surroundings, 63 bird species, 12 reptile species, and 15 mammal species have been recorded. The Kapulukaya Dam Lake is home to 13 different fish species. Additionally, the endangered Eurasian otter finds habitat in this region.

Tourism and Recreational Value

The nature park is used for day-trip recreation and nature-based sports due to its natural landscape and ecosystem diversity. Activities such as picnicking, hiking, angling, and birdwatching are carried out in the area. The park’s topographic variety also makes it suitable for scientific research.

Karaahmetli Nature Park.(Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Türkiye)

Infrastructure and Facilities

The park features 37 camels, 52 picnic tables, 1 toilet, 5 fountains, 4 children’s play areas, 1 water reservoir, and 20 lighting fixtures. Additional facilities include an entrance control unit, parking area, sports field, mosque, water reservoir, viewpoint terrace, rain shelters, social amenities, and a solar-powered lighting system. To improve accessibility, a 1,200-meter paved road and a 2-kilometer natural stone road have been constructed. A floating pier has also been installed to support water sports and angling activities.

Access

Karaahmetli Nature Park is located along the Ankara-Konya-Kulu highway. Access from Kırıkkale city center to Karaahmetli Village is via asphalt road, and from the village to the park via a stabilized road.

Planning and Protection Status

Karaahmetli Nature Park was officially declared in 2009 and has a long-term development plan. A conservation-oriented zoning plan has been approved for an area of approximately 200 decares at the Çatal Tarla Sırtı location.