Imagine exchanging vows in a place where snow-covered mountains, misty forests, or golden deserts stretch for miles. Getting married in a national park offers the kind of natural beauty that makes your big day truly unforgettable. It’s a unique idea that feels adventurous and meaningful. After all, what could be more special than saying “I do” in one of the most beautiful places in the country? But before you commit to the great outdoors for your big day, it’s important to weigh the good and the maybe not good sides of a national park wedding.
I’m here to walk you through the pros and cons, coming from all my experience as an elopement photographer. By the end of this, you should have a solid idea of whether a national park wedding, or elopement is the right call for you and your partner.
The Pros of Getting Married in a National Park
1. Amazing Scenery for Your Big Day
When you choose a national park wedding, the scenery speaks for itself. These incredible landscapes, from mountains to deserts, and even lakes, all set the perfect stage for your vows. There’s no need to spend a fortune on decorations because the surroundings do all the work. Imagine saying your vows at sunrise in front of Yosemite’s Half Dome or sharing your first kiss in front of a rushing waterfall in Grand Teton National Park.
As a photographer, I can tell you that nothing beats the natural colors and lighting that parks offer. Whether it’s the golden light of sunset or the soft greens of a forest, your photos will have that “wow” factor. Your wedding pictures won’t just capture the two of you, they’ll also capture the beauty of the world around you.
2. An Intimate and Personal Experience
Getting married in a national park feels special and unique. These parks are vast and peaceful, allowing you to find a private place for your ceremony. Even if you invite a few friends and family members, it can still feel deeply personal. There’s something intimate about leaving the distractions of the busy world behind and focusing on what matters most, your love for each other.
If you’re worried about how to include family in an elopement, I’ve got you covered! I wrote a whole blog called How To Elope With Family that gives plenty of ideas on how to make everyone feel included in your adventure. You don’t have to leave family out to have a meaningful and private experience.
3. A More Budget-Friendly “Venue” Option
Traditional weddings can get expensive fast. Between paying for a venue, catering, and decorations, it’s easy to spend thousands of dollars you didn’t plan on. Getting married in a national park can be much more affordable. The costs are usually limited to permits, entry fees, and whatever travel accommodations you need to make.
By saving money on a big venue and elaborate decorations, you can put your budget toward other important things. Maybe it’s a honeymoon you’ll never forget, or maybe it’s hiring a photographer to capture every detail of your park wedding. A national park ceremony gives you the space to decide what really matters to you.
For advice on What Vendors Do I Need To Hire For My Elopement check out my blog. You’ll find a few more insights on who and what you’ll specifically need for your big day.
4. A Deep Connection to Nature
If you and your partner love being outdoors, this is a chance to incorporate that love into your wedding day. National parks have a calming effect, they make us slow down and appreciate life in the moment. Whether it’s the sound of the trees in the wind or the sun setting over a canyon, nature has a way of bringing people together. It’s sure to provide you with less stress that a traditional wedding can bring.
A bonus? Getting married outdoors can align with eco-conscious values. There’s less waste involved, and fewer resources are used overall. It’s a small but impactful way to respect the environment while celebrating one of the most important days of your life.
5. It Feels Like an Adventure
A wedding in a national park is never just a wedding. It’s an adventure. Whether you’re hiking to a cliffside spot for your ceremony or simply exploring the park during your stay, it’s an experience that goes far beyond saying vows. It’s the start of your marriage, framed by excitement and the joy of discovering something new together.
This sense of adventure is what makes national park weddings so memorable. Years down the road, you’ll remember not just the “I do,” but also the incredible day you shared outdoors with your favorite person.
The Cons of Getting Married in a National Park
1. Permits and Planning Can Be Tricky
National parks aren’t traditional venues, and there’s some extra planning involved. Most parks require permits for weddings, and some even have specific rules about where and when ceremonies can take place. Some locations have restrictions on decorations or group size, which can limit your options.
Before you decide on a national park wedding, be sure to do your research. My blog, How To Get Married in a National Park, is a great resource for understanding the rules and requirements. I’ve also helped plenty of couples with the logistics, so if you’re feeling overwhelmed, you don’t have to handle it all on your own!
2. Unpredictable Weather
Outdoor weddings are beautiful, but they’re also unpredictable. One minute, it’s sunny and warm, the next, you’re dealing with unexpected rain or wind. When you get married in a national park, you’ll need a backup plan in case the weather throws any surprises your way. But here’s the thing, some of the most memorable moments I’ve photographed have happened during less-than-perfect weather. The key is to be flexible and ready for anything.
3. Accessibility Challenges
National parks are built for exploration, which isn’t always easy if you’re bringing along guests of all ages. If you’re planning to hike to a ceremony spot, keep in mind that some locations may not work for everyone. For instance, elderly relatives or families with young kids might find certain areas tricky to reach.
That said, many parks offer scenic spots that don’t require much walking. With some extra planning, you can still find a place that works for everyone, and I’d be happy to help you scout out perfect locations for your big day.
4. Few Amenities
When you’re getting married outdoors, it’s important to remember that national parks aren’t built with weddings in mind. You may not have access to restrooms, electricity, or even running water, depending on where you go. But here’s the thing, simplifying your wedding lets you focus on what really matters. I’ve seen couples create beautiful ceremonies with picnic blankets, elegant table settings, and personal diy touches. This kind of simplicity keeps the day about you two, not the extras.
5. Crowds Could Be a Problem
Depending on the time of year and location, you might not be the only ones enjoying the scenery. Popular parks like Glacier or Mt. Rainier can get really crowded, especially during peak season. It can feel a little less intimate if you’re competing with tourists for space.
However, there are ways to minimize this. Planning a sunrise ceremony, eloping during the week, or booking in the off-season can make a big difference. With a little creativity, and flexibility you can find quiet moments in even the busiest parks. Plus, I know some less-frequented parks, and hidden gems with just as much beauty. I’m happy to share my insider tips!
Is a National Park Wedding Right for You?
Deciding to get married in a national park comes down to your priorities. If you value adventure, intimate moments, and stunning views, it’s probably a great fit. If the idea of unpredictable weather or the lack of amenities makes you nervous, it might not be the right choice.
For couples who want to bring family or other loved ones along, it’s definitely possible to have both an adventurous and inclusive wedding. Just check out my How Many People Should You Invite To Your Elopement blog for ideas on how to make it work.
Ultimately, what matters most is creating a day that feels right for you and your partner. And if your dreams lead you to a national park, I’ll be there to make it unforgettable.
Capture Every Moment
At the end of the day, what makes a national park wedding so special is the combination of your love story and being totally surrounded by nature. Your moments deserve to be documented, and that’s where I come in.
If you’re ready to plan the adventure of a lifetime, I’d love to be your photographer. From the logistics to the magic of the day itself, I’m here to help every step of the way. Together, we can turn your dream into memories you’ll treasure forever. Reach out by filling out my contact form, and let’s get started planning your national park wedding! Your love story deserves nothing less than this kind of beauty and adventure.
