How to Plan a National Park Elopement | Getting Married Outdoors

What Does Eloping Mean?

Eloping today means so much more than it did 10+ years ago – elopements are no longer these secret affairs that occur behind closed doors, or solely within the borders of Las Vegas. They are designed with intention and authenticity – but most importantly, they’re designed from a couple’s freedom to choose. Elopements give couples the opportunity to pick the unconventional, weather that looks like planning an epic national park elopement with only each other, or inviting ten of their closest loved ones to witness them say “I do” on a boat off the coast of a tropical island. Elopements bring the focus back to the couple getting married, and away from societal expectations and outdated traditions. Every elopement is unique in its own right, and that’s what makes them unbelievably special. 

For additional information on the specifics of planning a general elopement, or for a more detailed definition, check out this free resource: What is an Elopement? | How to Elope

Why You Should Plan a National Park Elopement

A national park elopement is a dream come true for nature lovers, thrill seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. National parks house some of the most impressive landscapes and natural wonders that the United States has to offer. One of the most notable perks of having an elopement in a national park is the ability to return to the specific spot where the elopement took place, whether it’s for anniversaries or simply “just because”. Beyond the natural elements, many of the fees eloping couples encounter are reinvested directly into the park. They help fund conservation efforts, support proper ecosystem management, and maintain the amenities that keep these areas protected and accessible. These fees are usually no more than a couple hundred dollars, which makes national park elopements both feasible for many, and sustainably-centered, (a win-win if you ask me). 

How to Plan a National Park Elopement (Step-by-Step)

Navigating National Park Permits

Elopements and weddings that occur in unconventional outdoor spaces will often require permits. Permits can seem like a silly thing, but in reality, they are there to protect both the people and the places we explore. It’s important to remember that permits are applied for, processed, and priced differently in each jurisdiction. The two main permits eloping couples encounter include special use permits and still photography/commercial use permits. 

Special Use Permits: A need for a special use permit is defined by the National Park Service as “an activity in a National Park area that is conducted by or provides a benefit to an individual, group or organization, rather than the public at large.” NPS lists examples as to what qualifies as special use of the park, including weddings, elopements, commitment ceremonies, parties, and group events.
Sometimes a special use permit will automatically grant you permission to have a professional photographer accompany you, but many parks will require that you obtain another permit specifically for professional still photography.

Still Photography/Commercial Use Permits: An additional photography permit may be needed for a professional photographer to operate in a national park setting. The general guidelines put forth by the NPS say that a photography permit is needed when:

“1.The activity takes place at location(s) where or when members of the public are generally not allowed; or
2. the activity uses model(s), sets(s), or prop(s) that are not a part of the location’s natural or cultural resources or administrative facilities; or
3. a park would incur additional administrative costs to monitor the activity.”

You may be wondering if all national park elopements require a permit, and the short answer is no. Although in some cases you won’t need to obtain any kind of permit, it’s safe to assume you’ll generally need one if you’re tying the knot on public lands monitored by state or federal entities, (and this is especially true if you’re planning a national park elopement). 

Pro Tip: I cover the topic of permits, (and so many other elopement-related things), in-depth in my exclusive 100+ page Elopement & Intimate Wedding Guide. If you want more information about the Wild Elements elopement experience, send us a message!

Tips for Applying for Permits

Before you submit your applications, you will want to verify that all of the information you need to give is accurate. You will be asked to include specifics like the time, date, number of people and vehicles, and location of your ceremony. Be detailed and organized in your responses. If there’s a specific trail, overlook, etc. you want to use, list that information as well. You may also be asked to give a list of secondary dates and locations if your original date and/or location is not available. Some locations have limited spots for elopements and weddings each year, so submitting a solid application as early as the process allows is more likely to work in your favor. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the website that corresponds to the national park of your choosing. Additionally, you can call the park staff and speak directly to the person in charge of fielding permit applications. 

Pro Tip: If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed at the thought of applying for permits so you can have the national park elopement of your dreams, don’t be! Part of our job as elopement photographers/planners is helping you identify the right permits you need, and walking you through the application process. You’ll never have to do this alone. 

The Best National Parks to Elope In

Shenandoah National park

Nestled in the hills of Virginia, Shenandoah National Park covers nearly 200,000 protected acres throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains. One of its most unique features is Skyline Drive, a scenic byway that bridges 105 miles of the park together. There are 75 awe-inducing overlooks, dozens of trails, (including access to the Appalachian Trail), and numerous waterfalls and cascades. Additionally, just outside of the park sits Luray Caverns – the largest cavern system in the eastern United States, and a National Natural Landmark.

You may also like this free resource: Maryland & East Coast Elopement Guide 

Best Time of Year to Visit: April, May, June, September, October, and November

Best Activities in the Area: Hiking, horseback riding, leaf peeping, camping, wine tasting, and exploring Skyline Drive. 

Kenai Fjords National Park

Kenai Fjords National Park is located just south of the Interior of Alaska, sitting on the southeastern edge of the Kenai Peninsula. This park is the most well-known for the Harding Icefield, one of the largest icefields in the entirety of the United States and a timecapsule of the Pleistocene ice age. It feeds roughly 40 glaciers as they travel down to the sea. Furthermore, Kenai Fjords is renowned for its thriving marine life population, and its remarkable tidewater glaciers. With nearly 600,000 acres to explore, the park displays one of the most beautiful collisions of mountains, forests, wildlife, ocean, ice, and more. 

Best Time of Year to Visit: June – August

Best Activities in the Area: Boat tours, kayaking, camping, hiking, glacier viewing, fishing, helicopter tour, and mountaineering.

Glacier National Park

Perhaps one of the most sought-after destinations for a national park elopement, Glacier National Park is worthy of the recognition it often receives. Crystal-like alpine lakes, views of the Continental Divide, puzzling geological formations, and abundant native wildlife are all trademarks of this Montana-based wonder. The park offers approximately 700 miles of hikeable trails, and fixtures you can’t find anywhere else like the famous “Going-to-the-Sun Road, and its shared “Crown of the Continent” transboundary ecosystem. Thrill seekers and adventure enthusiasts will feel right at home here. 

Best Time of Year to Visit: June – September

Best Activities in the Area: Hiking, kayaking, swimming, horseback riding, camping, and wildlife viewing.

Sequoia National Park

Somewhere in Central California lives Sequoia National Park, home to five of the top ten largest trees on the entire planet. As the name suggests, this park is mostly associated with the massive sequoia trees that make up this utterly colossal forest in the Sierra Nevada. Aside from the impressive collection of trees, Sequoia National Park boasts Crystal Cave, (a marble cavern with many observable stalagmite and stalactite formations), and Mount Whitney. This park stands as one of the oldest in America, as it was established in September of 1890.

Best Time of Year to Visit: June – September

Best Activities in the Area: Horseback riding, rock climbing, hiking, fishing, driving through a tree, and driving The Generals Highway.

Big Bend National Park

When people think of Texas, they don’t often think of Big Bend National Park – a large 800,000+ acre reserve that trademarks the land of far west Texas. Big Bend comprises some of the most impressive and dramatic desert and mountain landscapes in the United States, (challenging Texas’ “flat” stereotype). Not to mention, the Rio Grande is a well-known fixture of the area, and runs directly through the park. Because of Big Bend’s remote location, it’s also classified as an International Dark Sky Reserve, allowing for some of the best stargazing the country has to offer.  

Best Time of Year to Visit: October – April

Best Activities in the Area: Hiking, exploring hot springs, stargazing, scenic driving, river tripping, and horseback riding.

Grand Teton National Park

Another epic national park elopement destination in the west, Grand Teton National park rests its borders in Wyoming, (and conveniently only 10 minutes south of Yellowstone). Although the name of this park gives away one of its greatest charms, the Teton mountain range puts on a marvelous display. The recognizable peaks are accentuated by alpine lakes, historic landmarks, loads of opportunity for outdoor activities, and of course its booming wildlife scene. Another thing that brings people to the area is the chance to explore the neighboring town of Jackson Hole – a town that embodies the Western lifestyle in a luxurious way.

Best Time of Year to Visit: May – September

Best Activities in the Area: Wildlife viewing, hiking, kayaking, boating, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, scenic driving, rock climbing, and fishing.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Traveling down to the Southern Appalachian Mountains, residing on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, lies Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This treasure is most known for its diversely vegetated mountains, the blue mist that seems to perpetually linger over the valleys, its American Black Bear population, and the connected Appalachian history. There are over 800 miles of designated hiking trails in the park, over 500 of which allow for horseback riding. As a bonus, it also poses as one of the nation’s only national parks that does not require an entrance fee. 

Best Time of Year to Visit: April – November

Best Activities in the Area: Horseback riding, exploring waterfalls, hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and swimming.

Activities for Your National Park Elopement

The built-in sense of grandiosity and perspective of national parks aren’t easy to replicate, in turn allowing experience-driven wedding days to flourish within their borders. Whether you’re planning a national park elopement in the spring, summer, winter, or fall, there are an abundance of outdoor activities you can build into your elopement celebration.

Here’s a quick list of activity ideas:

Pro Tip: Some national parks will require you to obtain specific permits or clearances for certain activities you wish to participate in. Calling the park office well in advance eliminates any possible misunderstandings, and ensures you’re adequately prepared and approved for the activity of your choosing.

You may also like: How to Plan an Off-Roading Elopement (Top 4×4 Locations & More)

How to Choose a Photographer for Your National Park Elopement

Choosing a photographer for your national park elopement is one of the most important things you’ll do throughout the entire process. While this decision strongly depends on your photographic style preference, there are a few other things to consider:

1. If you’re opting for an adventurous wedding day outside, you will want to work with a professional who shares your same passion for the outdoors. This person shouldn’t shy away from working with the elements, and will also likely be able to demonstrate how exciting it can be to embrace all Mother Nature has to offer, (a true staple of a national park elopement).

2. Despite popular belief, elopements often require thorough planning and they don’t *just* happen on a whim. You want to work with an elopement photographer that won’t just show up and document your day, but will help you actually plan it too. For example, we guide our eloping couples from the very beginning with location ideas, personalized activity recommendations, permit navigation, finding travel accommodations, and so much more! You can learn more about what we do here.

3. More than just liking a certain style of photography someone offers, you want to make sure you can really connect with the professional you’re interested in. This person will be spending a majority of this intimate experience with you, which means you should be able to both trust this individual fully and enjoy their company. This is why jumping on a consult call or video chat with someone you want to work with before booking is paramount.

Complete List of USA National Parks

While there are hundreds, (if not thousands), of protected lands around the world, there are 63 recognized National Parks in the United States. They span across 34 U.S. states and territories combined, all pristinely beautiful in their own ways. 

Fun Fact: Did you know that the NPS, (National Park Service), protects over 85 million acres of federally-owned land? For context, that’s equivalent to about 85 million American football fields! 

Here is a complete list of USA National Parks:

With a list as long and grandiose as this, it can feel a tad overwhelming when choosing where to plan your National Park elopement – but this is exactly where we come in! Using our very own tried and true storyboarding technique and industry knowledge, we help you narrow down the perfect spot, (or spots), for your elopement to unfold. You can learn more about our process here, or inquire with us here.

National Park Elopement FAQs

Can we invite friends and family to our national park elopement?

Yes, you can generally invite friends and family to your national park elopement. However, it’s important to note that a majority of national park wedding permits limit how many people can attend in your group. Always check with the corresponding park office to ensure that the number of loved ones you plan to invite is within the park’s regulations. 

Do all national Parks allow weddings?

While it’s true that almost all national parks allow elopements/weddings, there are a few things to keep in mind. A majority of parks will require you to obtain a permit for your celebration, even if it’s just the two of you, (and your photographer). Sometimes national parks only allow ceremonies at certain pre-approved sites, especially if it’s popular and highly trafficked. Most do not allow props, arches, flowers, etc. Additionally, it’s important that national parks remain open and available to the public, meaning no park can be shut down entirely for a private wedding celebration. In other words, complete location exclusivity doesn’t really exist. 

Can we bring our dog to our National Park Elopement?

There are very few national parks that allow pets on a majority of their trails, lookout points, etc. Most parks limit pet-friendly access to a small number of campsites, roads, paved areas, and parking lots. The NPS has very strict rules regarding pets, and although they differ by park jurisdiction, the most common shared rule is that they must be leashed and under control at all times. If you plan to explore the back country, dirt hiking trails, or wilderness areas, it’s better to leave your furry loved ones safe at home! 

For more information on including your pet during your national park visit, check out this resource: Camping World’s List of All 62 National Park Pet Restrictions

Do we need an officiant?

The short answer: it depends! If you want to legally solidify your marriage on the day it happens, you have a couple of options. With the popularity of elopements skyrocketing to an all time high, more and more officiants are branching out to perform ceremonies in unconventional outdoor spaces. If you’re eloping in a state that allows self-solemnization, you don’t actually need an officiant at all, (I cover this in-depth here: A Guide to Self-Solemnization). However, if there’s no rush or desire to make your marriage legally binding, you can treat your national park elopement as a commitment ceremony and visit the courthouse at a later date. 

Pro Tip: My partner and I are ordained through the Universal Life Church, which means we can marry you in most states as long as it recognizes the organization we received our ordination from as a legal officiating entity.