How to Elope in a National Park

From the title you’re probably like, what like it’s hard? *Insert Elle Woods* I wouldn’t say hard, but wanting to elope in a National Park isn’t that easy either. There are a few things to consider or to prepare for if you’ve got your heart set on an elopement in a National Park. But don’t worry because we laid it all out for you here so you can prep and plan so you don’t expect any other surprises!

1. Decide how big or small you want your elopement to be

First thing to think about if you want to elope in a National Park is planning on how many people you want at the ceremony?if you are thinking of a legit outdoor adventure elopement, you’ll need to cut down on how many guest you want to bring. If you’re considering an elopement with 20 extra people, most national parks will be perfect for you. Anything bigger than that, you’ll have to consider having a wedding at a venue rather than doing it outdoors. This is mainly because you’ll have a lot more to set up such as chairs, an alter, where to dine. So making sure you know if you want to have a wedding vs an elopement is something to consider very early on.

2. Decide on a location

Once you decide how big or small you want your elopement, now you can choose a location! There are so many National Parks to choose from. Some of our favorites are Yosemite, Zion, and Joshua Tree. We also put together an Ultimate Guide on How to Elope in Yosemite, so make sure to check that out if you’re thinking of a Yosemite elopement! 

Most places, however won’t have a specific venue right in the park. So again make sure you think about which type of wedding you’re having, either an indoor or outdoor wedding/elopement. Keep in mind, the more pictures on social media you see of a location, usually means the more popular the spot is. Which means a way bigger crowd factor. However, most photographers, such as ourselves, can help with finding a great ceremony spot away from crowds! Plus going during the week can really help out. Also, don’t forget about what date you choose if you’re thinking of a winter time wedding most locations in National Parks could be closed due to snow. Same goes with summer times, this means more crowds during that time, so just something to keep in mind.

3. Make sure to apply for a permit

Alright location, check! Now you’ll have to lock it in by applying for a Special Use Permit. Make sure you know exactly the rules and regulations and how far in advance you’ll need to apply for your permit. The time frame for when you can apply for a permit will vary for the different National Parks. Just make sure you read up on the location so you’re all prepared.

Once you have the permit, make sure that they have received all the necessary payments and fees so that way you know you’re not missing anything else. Also head’s up, even if you’re doing an elopement with only the two of you and an officiant, you’ll still need to apply for a permit! Most permits you can find from the National Park website including prices. Just in case, make sure to think of two dates you want to get married in case they won’t be able to accommodate for the first one.

Again most photographers who specialize in elopement photography (like us!) can help with this step. So if you know you want to have an elopement, it’s best to choose a photographer who specializes in adventure elopements so they can help with the planning process! 

4. Don’t forget the marriage license 

If you’ve decided on a National Park in a different state, you’ll need a marriage license from that state. Most states do have a timeline of how long the license is good for, or when they expire. You might need to take a trip to that state to get the marriage license, but this is actually a good idea since you can check out the park and see where you want the ceremony at, or where you want pictures at. It’s a great way to have an excuse for a little trip!

In case you can’t make it out, a good tip is you can take care of the marriage license and all that stuff where you live and still have your elopement ceremony at the place of your choice! It’s actually way more convenient and it helps with not having to stress too much about all the legal stuff. Also good for planning over seas destination weddings! 

5. Leave No Trace

Everyone needs to practice this! Please don’t go to a National Park and sprinkle it with confetti, glitter, or even food wrappers from the day, it’s not good for the wildlife and is also a form of littering . It’s basically outdoor ethics 101! We know with the amount of people coming to National Parks recently puts a pretty big toll on our lands so its important we try and do our part as much as possible. This is why many National Parks have a lot of rules and regulations on what you can and can’t bring into the park. Make sure you know what is permitted in the park before you bring anything. It’s very important that whatever you bring in you take out, by practicing Leave No Trace, you’re helping the wildlife there and the land! 

Ok now you know the basics on how to elope in a National Park! There is a lot more that goes into a National Park elopement so since we specialize in adventure elopements, when you book with us, we do help with all the planning process including location, vendor recommendations and permits!

Let us know if you want to elope in a National Park so we can help you plan and come up with location ideas, and don’t forget to check out some of our shoots for more inspiration!