Getting married in a national park is an amazing option if you’re looking for a stunning natural backdrop and a more affordable alternative to a traditional wedding venue. Whether it’s the rocky peaks of the Tetons, the moody forests of the Redwoods, or the dramatic scenery of Mt. Rainier, there are plenty of beautiful options to choose from. But how much does it actually cost to get married in one of these parks?
Here’s an overview of how much it costs to get married in a national park. Also including permit costs, group size rules, planning tips, and other important details.
Permits
If you choose to elope in a national park you’re most likely going to need a permit. National parks are public lands, and while they’re open to anyone to visit, hosting an event (like your wedding) requires a little extra paperwork. The good news? The permit fee to get married in a national park is super reasonable, especially compared to traditional venue costs.
Here’s a quick rundown of permit costs for some popular parks:
- Rocky Mountain National Park: $300
- Glacier National Park: $200
- Grand Teton National Park: $200
These fees go toward park maintenance and keeping these epic places pristine for everyone who visits. Getting the permit is a must, and the application process is pretty straightforward. Reach out ASAP to the park you’ve got your heart set on. A lot of parks only have a certain number of permits and they will sell out fast. They’ll send you the details about ceremony sites, group size limits, and any other rules you’ll need to follow. Some parks also charge extra fees for parking or entrance passes, so add that to your budget just in case.
How Many People Should You Bring?
When it comes to national park weddings, your guest count does matter. Most parks have specific limits on how many guests can attend your ceremony, and honestly? It works in your favor. If you’re already dreaming of an intimate day, this is the perfect excuse to keep things small and simple.
Parks often cap guest lists at around 10-15 people, with some allowing a max of 50 depending on the location. Why? It’s all about minimizing your impact on the environment and making sure other park visitors still get to enjoy the space. Trust me, smaller groups fit the vibe way better. You’re there to connect with nature and each other, not throw a giant party.
Not sure if a national park wedding fits your guest list or overall plans? Check out my blog on the Pros & Cons of Getting Married in a National Park. You can find more details there!
Follow the Rules
Wedding days are magical and all about the two of you. But when you’re tying the knot in a national park, it’s also about respecting the space and making sure future generations get to enjoy it too. That’s where park rules come in.
Here are some must-know basics:
- Approved Ceremony Spots Only: Each park has designated areas for weddings, like Sprague Lake in Rocky Mountain National Park or Schwabacher Landing in the Tetons. You can’t just stroll into any open meadow and say “I do.” Make sure you stay on trail, and you shouldn’t encounter any problems.
- Leave No Trace: This one’s huge. No confetti, no balloons, and absolutely nothing that could harm wildlife or the environment. Pack out everything you pack in. A lot of parks don’t allow extensive decoraions as well.
- Keep It Quiet: Amplified music or loud celebrations aren’t a thing in national parks. You’ll want to keep noise levels low, which honestly just adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
The park rangers are there to help, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Following the rules isn’t just about staying out of trouble, it shows you care about the spot you’ve chosen to marry in.
Tips for Planning a National Park Wedding
Weddings in national parks are different from your typical venue experience. But don’t stress, I’ve got your back. Here’s how to make your planning process way easier:
1. Choose Your Season Wisely
Timing is everything. A park like Glacier might be magical in the summer but hard to access in the winter. Rocky Mountain might be perfect in the fall with all the golden aspens, while spring could bring unpredictable snow. Research your chosen park’s weather, road closures, and trail conditions before locking in your date.
Oh, and if you can, avoid weekends and holidays altogether. Popular parks can get crazy crowded, so a midweek wedding is basically the best hack for a peaceful ceremony.
2. Sunrise vs. Sunset
Sunrise ceremonies are a bit more ideal for your national park wedding. There’s less chance of running into crowds, you get that dreamy morning light, and the whole world just feels calm and magical. If you’re not a morning person, sunset is a close runner-up, and the golden hour glow is unbeatable. Whatever you choose, make sure to time it right for the best lighting in your photos.
3. Hire an Elopement Photographer
National park weddings aren’t your typical wedding day, and your photos shouldn’t be either. Terrain, lighting, and weather all play a big role in capturing your day, so hiring a photographer who knows their way around these outdoor spaces is key. I specialize in elopements and national park weddings, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Between location scouting, timeline planning, hiking tips, and more, I am here to help!
Oh, and if this is your first time planning something like this, check out my post on How to Get Married in a National Park. It’s full of practical advice to make the process smooth and stress-free.
4. Be Prepared to Roll With It
Nature isn’t exactly predictable, surprise thunderstorms, trail closures, or an random bear might show up to crash your wedding. Stay flexible and remember that these little hiccups usually make the best stories later.
5. Keep the Reception Simple
Most national parks don’t allow full-blown receptions onsite, so you’ll need to get creative. Think picnic vibes with a charcuterie spread, or host a cozy dinner at a nearby cabin or restaurant. Pro tip: bring a small cake, champagne, and a blanket to celebrate right after your ceremony, it’s simple but unforgettable.
6. Gear Up
Planning an outdoor ceremony means packing smart. You’ll want clothing layers (that mountain air can be chilly, even in summer), comfy shoes for walking or hiking, and essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water. Trust me, hiking boots under your dress are not only practical, they look amazing in photos.
How Much Will It All Cost?
Now that you know the basics, here’s a ballpark of what you might spend on your national park wedding:
- Permit Fee: $50-$300
- Photography: $6,000 (or more, depending on coverage)
- Travel Costs: Flights, rental cars, etc.
- Accommodations: Campsite? Airbnb? Hotel nearby?
- Food & Drinks: Simple picnic or post-ceremony dinner
- Attire: Think dresses and outdoor-friendly suits
- Florals: A bouquet and boutonniere might be all you need
Compared to the average traditional wedding (which can cost more than $30K), a national park wedding is significantly more affordable. It’s very likely you’ll spend less than $15K. Plus, it’s infinitely more unique. You can make your national park wedding as extravagant or as simple as you wish.
Your Custom Wedding
One of the best things about planning a wedding in a national park is how customizable it can be. You have the freedom to decide where to allocate more of your budget based on what matters most to you as a couple. For example, if capturing the stunning scenery and intimate moments is your top priority, you might choose to splurge on an experienced elopement photographer. On the other hand, you can save by keeping decorations minimal. Nature already provides the perfect backdrop, so there’s no need for elaborate florals or décor. Travel and accommodations can also be adjusted to fit your budget, with options ranging from camping under the stars to booking a more upscale hotel nearby. This flexibility allows you to create a day that feels unique to you, without overspending on things that don’t align with your vision.
Are You Ready To Get Married In A National Park?
Having a national park wedding is about more than just saving money. It’s about creating an experience that’s true to you: authentic, adventurous, and full of meaning. Whether you’re exchanging vows in front of an alpine lake or a sweeping mountain range, the memories you’ll make will be unmatched.
Thinking about a national park wedding? I’d love to chat. As an elopement photographer, I’m all about helping couples create moments that feel natural and true to who they are. Fill out my contact form and let’s start planning your dream day together!
