You know you want to get married surrounded by the beauty of nature, but you’re not sure where to start? Why not get married at one of America’s 63 national parks!? The natural beauty of these locations is so special that it received legal protection – so any of these stunning parks would be the perfect place to start your married journey. Here are some things to think about when planning national park weddings and elopements.

What national parks can I get married in?

The first step in planning a national park wedding is to select the exact park you want to say your vows in. National parks are diverse, each offering its own unique scenery and vibe. Whether you’re envisioning a backdrop of majestic mountains, serene lakes, or a canopy of towering redwoods, there’s a park that fits the bill. You can get married at any national park, depending on season and other considerations, such as group size. Popular choices include Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Yellowstone, but don’t overlook lesser-known gems like Joshua Tree or Acadia. You can find a full list of parks with cost information here.

Is a permit required for eloping in a national park?

As national parks are public lands, hosting events there often requires a special use permit. The application varies from park to park, and also depends on group size, planned activities, and time of year, so it’s important to check the park’s website and contact the administration early to get all the necessary information. Though we do have a list of basic information for each park here. Permits almost always have a fee, and you may also need a liability insurance policy. It’s also important to apply for permits as soon as you set your date. Popular parks and locations can get booked up fast!

How many people can I invite to my national park wedding?

As mentioned above, many national parks have a limit for the amount of people allowed to attend the event. Not only this, but photography packages will also differ based on the amount of guests. The numbers obviously depend on each business, but for example my elopement package includes up to 12 guests, and my small intimate wedding package includes up to 40 people. As for the parks themselves, the average number of guests allowed at national park ceremonies are anywhere between 25 and 50 people – though that number often includes vendors, officiants, photographers, etc. So you can’t have some grand affair. National park weddings and elopements should be kept small and intimate.

What are some things to consider when getting married at a national park?

Getting married in a remote location means there are some logistics you need to consider. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Accessibility: How will guests get to the site? Is there parking available? Will anyone need special assistance?
• Facilities: Are there restrooms nearby? What about shelter in case of bad weather?
• Vendors: Can your preferred vendors (caterers, photographers, etc.) access the location? Do they need their own permits?
• Season: What is the weather like in the season you want to wed? Certain national parks are too hot, cold, or rainy, depending on the season.

This is where hiring a wedding planner who has experience with outdoor or national park weddings and elopements can be a huge weight off your shoulders. They can help navigate these details. Though my official title is elopement photographer, I also assist with the planning process. Here is a list of what is included in each elopement photography package.

You Should Plan for the Elements

As you will be in nature, it is important to be prepared for various weather conditions, and either have a relaxed attitude or a backup plan. If you’d rather not say your vows and take your photos in the rain and you are going to a park known for their sudden showers, you might want to take an umbrella as a prop or rent a tent for your group of guests. Whereas, if you will be in hot conditions, make sure to bring and drink plenty of water, and have a shady location if you will have guests. Depending on the location, you might also need things like sunscreen, bug spray, and comfy shoes – and remember to remind your guests to do the same.

Make Sure Your Eco-Friendly Wedding Follows the National Park Guidelines

One of the best parts about a national park wedding is the natural beauty that surrounds you. Use it to your advantage! Keep decorations minimal to enhance the setting without detracting from it – think wildflower bouquets, natural wood arches, or simple lanterns. You can also incorporate local elements into your ceremony. This could be as simple as using a local flower or having a moment to acknowledge the indigenous land you’re on. It’s important to note that some flowers may be prohibited depending on the park to protect the land from invasive species, and often times dried flowers are not permitted. Check guidelines for your specific park. If you haven’t chosen one yet, you can go look at the full list of national parks here.

One of the most important aspects of a national park wedding is to respect the environment. Every national park, and hopefully every elopement photographer, advocates for following the Leave No Trace principles: pack out all trash, stay on designated paths, and avoid disturbing wildlife. Most parks will include these guidelines as part of your permit agreement.

It’s also important to note that some parks have restrictions on noise, alcohol, and open flames. Make sure your celebration plans follow all the park’s rules. If plan to have a reception off-site, choose a location that complements the beauty and nature of the park experience.

What kind of photographer should I hire for my national park wedding or elopement?

When hiring a photographer for your national park elopement, it’s important to hire a photographer who understands the beauty and challenges of outdoor photography. They will know how to make the most of natural light and scenery, and give you breath-taking photos of both you and the landscape that surrounds you. It’s also super fun to hire a photographer to catch the more intimate moments of your elopement trip too. If you’d like, you can check out my portfolio here.

I hope this guide provided the basic information you will need to consider when planning your national park wedding. If you are overwhelmed, or you just don’t want to do all the planning yourself, reach out here. I will help you every step along the way!