Dreaming of saying “I do” surrounded by the raw beauty of nature, with panoramic mountain views or glowing desert sunsets as your backdrop? Getting married in a national park delivers that kind of magic, but it takes some planning to make those insanely beautiful moments happen. From navigating permits to choosing the best photographer (hi, that’s me!) and avoiding crowds, here are my top tips for tying the knot in the great outdoors. Oh, and don’t skip the links to some of my fav national park wedding blogs. They’re bursting with real-life inspo you’re gonna love!
To help you connect with the wilderness and keep things stress-free, I’ve packed this blog with everything you need to know about planning a national park wedding, updated for 2025.
Why Get Married in a National Park?
If you’re considering this, I’m guessing you’re already obsessed with nature. And what could beat standing hand-in-hand with your partner as canyon walls, ancient forests, or misty peaks surround you? National parks give you that “big magical moment” feel without the expensive banquet hall vibes. Plus, it’s intimate, adventurous, and makes for jaw-dropping photos you’ll cherish forever.
They’re also surprisingly versatile. Whether you picture a dramatic cliffside vow exchange or a cozy meadow ceremony tucked in the woods, there’s a location to match your vision. And because you’re choosing a natural location, you cut way down on the need for elaborate decorations. Honestly, Mother Nature’s already done the hard work for you.
Another underrated perk? Having your wedding in a national park simplifies the guest list. Whether you’re eloping just the two of you or inviting a small, close group, the outdoor setting naturally leans toward a more intimate celebration. By keeping it small, you’ll have way less stress and way more time to soak in what really matters, your love story! But, national park weddings aren’t exactly the same as traditional weddings. Since it’s a protected space, there are rules and logistics to keep in mind. (Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!)
Quick Tip Before We Start
Each national park is totally unique, with its own perks, permit fees, and vibe. If you want specific details about iconic parks like Grand Teton, check out my blog 5 Tips on Getting Married in Grand Teton National Park. You’ll find extra tips to make your day truly epic! Or, check out my Sunny Skyline Trail Elopement blog for information on eloping in Mt. Rainier National Park.
1. Get Your Required Permit
Okay, this part isn’t the most glamorous, but getting a permit is absolutely non-negotiable. National parks want to preserve the natural beauty we all love, so weddings and elopements are regulated to protect the area. Just think of it as your pass to the most stunning and affordable wedding venue.
How Do You Get a Permit?
First, head to the official website of your chosen park. Look for their “Special Use Permit” section (usually under “Plan Your Visit” or something similar). Fill out the form, pay the fee, and submit it ASAP. Some parks book up months or even a year in advance.
Once you’ve submitted the application, park rangers typically review it to ensure your plans align with their regulations. This might include restrictions on group size, time of day, or specific ceremony spots. Be flexible and ready to tweak your plan if needed. It’ll be worth it to have your wedding in such a stunning place.
What’s the General Cost?
Wedding permit costs depend on the park, but they typically range from $50 to $300. Iconic spots like Yosemite or Arches might be on the pricier side, while smaller, lesser-known parks could cost less. Pro tip? Budget a little extra in case you need additional permits for photographers (which some parks require).
Also, keep in mind that even with a permit, some parks limit where ceremonies can take place. For example, you might be restricted to specific overlooks or trails to ensure the area stays pristine. Always double-check the park’s rules before finalizing your ceremony spot.
2. Choose the Right Photographer (Who Can Double as Your Planner)
Listen, your wedding photographer is probably going to spend more time with you on your big day than anyone else (aside from your partner, of course.) This makes it super important to pick someone who not only takes killer photos but knows the ins and outs of national park weddings.
I always tell couples that hiring a photographer with experience in these spaces is like hiring a photographer and a wedding planner in one. From scouting the best ceremony spots to helping you time your day for golden-hour vibes, your photographer should help make the day feel seamless.
Photographers (like myself) also bring a heaping amount of outdoor knowledge that can save the day. For example, knowing which trails get icy in the spring or which locations have the best lighting for sunset shots. This stuff matters, trust me. Oh, and don’t sleep on adventure-friendly gear! I always recommend bringing spiky cleats for icy trails, backup shoes, and layers in case of bad weather. We can make your items personalized for your type of elopement!
3. Time It Right to Avoid Crowds
If you’ve visited a national park lately, you know they’ve gotten crazy busy, and that includes some weekdays. Unless you want a family of tourists watching you say your vows or random hikers walking into your shots, you’re going to want to strategize when and where you tie the knot.
Best Times of Day:
- Sunrise is heaven if you’re an early bird. You’ll get gorgeous lighting and minimal people (bonus points for soft, natural light in your photos!).
- Late afternoons work too, but keep in mind golden hour starts earlier in fall and winter.
- Sunset provides the best lighting. You could always just take photos at this time if you are worried about a crowd.
Best Days to Plan For:
Weekdays are your best bet, hands down. Saturdays? Basically a madhouse for most national parks. If you’re eloping, a midweek getaway is perfect. Trust me, it’s worth taking a day (or two) off work. Your photographer should be able to find you some hidden gems with less people if you prefer!
Think beyond the crowds too, lighting plays a huge role in outdoor photos. Early morning and late afternoon not only get you gorgeous natural light but also help avoid that harsh overhead sunlight from midday.
For more dreamy inspiration on eloping when the park is picture-perfect, scroll through my Unique Winter Cades Cove Wedding. This was an early winter elopement in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and felt incredibly private and intimate.
4. Plan to Look Cute, But Be Practical
This might sound obvious, but outdoor weddings equal a whole set of style considerations. Hiking a trail in full glam isn’t super comfy unless you plan ahead. Here’s what to consider:
Attire Tips:
- Your Dress: Flowy, lightweight dresses are a win. Bonus points if it’s easy to hike in! Bring a small garment bag to keep it looking fresh.
- Your Shoes: Get hiking boots or trail shoes. No one’s gonna see them under your dress, I promise! If you have to do heels for photos, pack them in your bag and wear them once you get to your photo spot.
- Layer Up: National park weather is unpredictable. Pack a cozy shawl, jacket, or blanket that looks cute in photos just in case it gets chilly.
What to Pack:
- A good backpack (small but sturdy enough to hold snacks, water, bug spray, and your shoes).
- Touch-up kit (think lip balm, different makeup, and a compact mirror).
- First-aid basics (blisters happen, fix them quickly).
- Reusable water bottles (some parks don’t have water nearby and you may have a long hike!)
- Anything else you could need for your wedding day! (Phone, map, family!)
5. Be Mindful, Leave No Trace
If you’re out here getting married in a national park, I’m guessing you’re all about protecting the planet. Make sure you follow Leave No Trace principles to keep your ceremony site as beautiful for others as it is for you.
Here are a few easy ways to be respectful:
- Skip confetti, rice, or anything that might harm wildlife. Opt for biodegradable flower petals or bubbles instead. Some national parks do not allow certain decor inside. Check with the website first!
- Pack out everything you bring in (and I mean everything). Don’t leave behind loose bobby pins, tissues, or food wrappers.
- Follow ranger instructions especially when it comes to staying on trails or not disturbing local critters.
It’s not just about rules; it’s about showing gratitude for these stunning spaces. A little mindfulness goes a long way.
Your Perfect National Park Wedding Starts Here
At the end of the day, getting married in a national park isn’t about how fancy things are. It’s about the connection you share and celebrating that in a place that inspires you. With some careful planning (and lots of photo ops), your dream day can be both low-key and spectacular.
If you’re on the hunt for an experienced photographer who’s ready to hike trails, manage logistics, and capture every beautiful, authentic moment, I’d love to be part of your adventure! Fill out my contact form, and let’s chat about how we can bring your national park elopement dreams to life.
