There’s something magical about eloping outdoors...
Just you, your partner, maybe a photographer, and the breathtaking backdrop of nature. It feels simple, intimate, and free—until a park ranger shows up mid-ceremony asking, “Where’s your permit?” That’s exactly what happened to me years ago, and let me tell you: it’s not the vibe you want on your wedding day.
I was photographing a beautiful couple at Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada, surrounded by towering red rocks and a golden sunset. The ceremony had just finished when a ranger approached and asked to see our permit. My stomach dropped. I’d photographed there before without needing one, but the park had updated its policy and I hadn’t checked. Long story short: I walked away with a $600 fine for shooting without a commercial permit.
Since then, I’ve made it my mission to help couples understand when and why permits are required for their elopements—because getting fined or shut down on your wedding day is not part of anyone’s dream plan.
Here’s everything you need to know about getting a permit for your elopement in Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, and Utah, covering national and state parks in each state, complete with contacts, timelines, and popular ceremony spots.
Washington: From Rainforests to Rugged Peaks
Washington’s wild beauty is unbeatable, with lush rainforests, alpine meadows, and dramatic coastlines. But whether you’re dreaming of eloping in a national park or state park, a permit is almost always required. I will let you know now that a group of 5 or less does not require a permit in Olympic National Park.
At Olympic National Park, weddings and elopements require a Special Use Permit, no matter the group size. The permit costs $50 and should be submitted at least 3 to 4 weeks before your event. You’ll want to reach out to the park office at olympic_special_use@nps.gov or call (360) 565-3130 to get the process started. Popular spots for ceremonies here include Hurricane Ridge with its sweeping mountain views, the lush green wonder of the Hoh Rainforest, and the dramatic coastline at Rialto Beach. Keep in mind that these areas are also popular with visitors, so a permit helps secure your spot without surprise interruptions.
Moving inland, Mount Rainier National Park also requires a Special Use Permit for any ceremony. Permits here are $60, and you’ll need to apply at least 4 weeks in advance by emailing mora_special_use@nps.gov. Couples love saying their vows at Paradise (especially in wildflower season), Sunrise with its expansive views, or the serene Tipsoo Lake surrounded by alpine meadows.
Don’t overlook North Cascades National Park, a hidden gem full of jagged peaks and turquoise lakes. Permits here are $50 and require 4 weeks’ notice, with applications going through noca_special_use@nps.gov. Imagine exchanging vows overlooking Diablo Lake’s stunning blue waters or at the scenic Washington Pass Overlook.
If you’re leaning toward a state park elopement, Washington’s parks also require permits. The Special Activities Permit costs $45 (plus additional site fees depending on the location), and applications should be submitted at least 60 days in advance. Popular Washington state park ceremony spots include Deception Pass State Park’s West Beach and Bowman Bay, Cape Disappointment’s lighthouse views, and the shores of Lake Wenatchee. For park-specific contacts, check out Washington State Parks’ contact directory.
Oregon: Coastal Cliffs and Waterfall Dreams
Oregon’s diverse landscapes—from rocky beaches to ancient forests—make it a top choice for adventurous elopements. But like Washington, permits are a must.
At Crater Lake National Park, a Special Use Permit is required for all weddings and elopements. The permit fee is $50, and applications must be submitted at least 4 weeks ahead of time. Contact the park office at crla_special_use@nps.gov or call (541) 594-3000. Imagine pledging your love at Rim Village overlooking the impossibly blue lake, or at Watchman Overlook for sunset magic.
For Oregon state parks, permits are required for any wedding involving 50 or more people or if you want exclusive use of an area. Fees range from $50 to $200 depending on the park, and you’ll need to apply 30 to 90 days in advance. Some of the most popular Oregon state park ceremony locations include the breathtakingSouth Falls or North Falls at Silver Falls State Park, the rocky cliffs and beaches of Ecola State Park, and the iconic views at Smith Rock State Park. You can call the state office at (800) 551-6949 or visit Oregon State Parks Weddings for more details.
California: Nine National Parks of Elopement Magic
California’s wealth of national parks offers everything from towering sequoias to desert vistas. And every single one of them? Requires a permit for your ceremony.
Starting with Yosemite National Park, you’ll need a $150 Special Use Permit, submitted at least 30 days before your date (earlier is better, since spots fill fast). Contact the park at yose_special_use@nps.gov or call (209) 372-0200. Couples love Glacier Point, Taft Point, and Cathedral Beach for their jaw-dropping views.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (managed together) both require permits for weddings. Permits cost $150 and must be submitted 30+ days in advance by emailing seki_permits@nps.gov. Popular ceremony spots here include Moro Rock, Beetle Rock, and Crescent Meadow.
Over in Joshua Tree National Park, permits cost $120 with a 30-day minimum application timeline. Contact jotr_special_use@nps.gov or call (760) 367-5512. Imagine your vows among the surreal boulders and iconic Joshua trees at Cap Rock, Hidden Valley, or Live Oak Picnic Area.
At Death Valley National Park, permits are $200, also requiring 30 days’ notice. Reach out via deva_special_use@nps.gov or (760) 786-3200. Zabriskie Point and Dante’s View are favorite spots for sunrise or sunset ceremonies.
Don’t forget Channel Islands National Park, a remote and unique place for an elopement. Permits vary depending on the island and group size, so emailchis_special_use@nps.gov or call (805) 658-5730 at least 30 days in advance. Favorite ceremony spots include Scorpion Beach and Inspiration Point on Santa Cruz Island.
Lassen Volcanic National Park offers dreamy alpine settings, with permits at $50 and applications due 30 days prior. Contact lavo_special_use@nps.gov or (530) 595-4480. Manzanita Lake and Bumpass Hell Overlook are popular picks.
Pinnacles National Park is a lesser-known gem, with permits costing $100 and requiring 90 days’ advance application. Contact pinn_special_use@nps.gov or call(831) 389-4486. Balconies Cliffs and Bear Gulch are stunning spots for intimate vows.
And finally, Redwood National and State Parks requires permits ranging from $100 to $200 depending on location, submitted 30 days in advance toredw_special_use@nps.gov. Exchange vows beneath giants at Prairie Creek, Jedediah Smith, or Lady Bird Johnson Grove.
California state parks also require permits, usually $100–$300, with 30–180 days’ lead time. Call (916) 653-6995 or check California State Parks Weddings for park-specific contacts. Popular state park spots include Julia Pfeiffer Burns (overlooking McWay Falls), Crystal Cove, and Humboldt Redwoods’ Founders Grove.
Arizona: Canyons, Red Rocks, and Desert Dreams
Arizona’s landscapes are nothing short of iconic. From the deep gorges of the Grand Canyon to the red rocks of Page & Marble Canyon, it’s a haven for adventurous couples who want to elope somewhere wild, raw, and unforgettable. But as with its western neighbors, a permit is almost always required if you plan to elope in one of Arizona’s national parks, monuments, or state parks.
Let’s start with the big one: Grand Canyon National Park. If you’re imagining exchanging vows on the rim of one of the world’s most awe-inspiring wonders, you’ll need to plan ahead. A Special Use Permit is required for any wedding or elopement, no matter how small. The permit fee is $175, and you’ll need to apply at least 4 weeks in advance. Contact the park office at grca_special_use@nps.gov or call (928) 638-7707.
The park has designated ceremony sites on both the South Rim and North Rim, including Shoshone Point (a fan favorite), Grandeur Point, Moran Point, and Cape Royal. Note that Shoshone Point has its own reservation fee for private use.
Moving south, Saguaro National Park near Tucson offers a stunning desert backdrop filled with towering saguaro cacti. Permits here are $100, and applications must be submitted at least 4 weeks in advance by emailing sagu_special_use@nps.gov or calling (520) 733-5158. Couples love the dramatic silhouette of the saguaros at sunset, especially in Signal Hill Picnic Area or Javelina Picnic Area.
If you’ve been scrolling Pinterest or Instagram for elopement inspiration, chances are you’ve seen the jaw-dropping view of Horseshoe Bend—that dramatic curve of the Colorado River, surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs. It’s one of Arizona’s most photographed landscapes, and for adventurous couples, it’s high on the list of dream elopement backdrops.
But here’s what many people don’t realize: Horseshoe Bend is managed by the City of Page, not the National Park Service. And yes—you’ll need a permit to legally elope or do any professional photography there.
To hold a wedding ceremony or professional photo session at Horseshoe Bend, you’ll need a Special Event Permit from the City of Page. Permits are required for any organized ceremony, no matter how small, as well as for any professional photography or videography. The permit fee typically starts around $300, though it can vary depending on group size, time of day, and specific use. You’ll also need to provide proof of insurance (your photographer or planner may be able to supply this).
Applications should be submitted at least 30 days in advance, though earlier is better if you’re aiming for a prime date or sunrise/sunset slot (the busiest times). To apply, email parksnrec@pageaz.gov or call the City of Page Parks and Recreation office at (928) 645-4384.
One important thing to know: Horseshoe Bend doesn’t allow private reservation of the overlook. You’ll be sharing the space with other visitors, and rangers can’t block off the area exclusively for your ceremony. If privacy is a big priority, many couples opt to hold their vows at nearby private overlooks or book a guided tour to more secluded viewpoints on Navajo land.
Horseshoe Bend is stunning, but it’s not a casual “show up and wing it” location. Between permit requirements, heavy visitor traffic, and exposure to cliffs and heat, it’s a place that rewards planning ahead—and having an experienced team in your corner.
Still, for couples who want to stand at the edge of one of the Southwest’s most iconic landscapes, it’s absolutely worth it. Just remember: permit in hand, water bottles packed, and sunscreen applied!
Outside the National Park Service system, Arizona’s state parks are also incredible elopement spots. At Red Rock State Park in Sedona, you’ll need a special event permit to hold a ceremony, typically costing $100–$300 depending on group size and setup. You’ll need to apply at least 30 days in advance by contacting the park office at (928) 282-6907. Popular ceremony locations here include Crescent Moon Ranch (with that iconic Cathedral Rock view) and the meadows by Oak Creek.
Other beautiful Arizona state parks like Slide Rock, Lost Dutchman, and Kartchner Caverns also allow weddings with permits. Fees and rules vary by park, so it’s best to call the Arizona State Parks general office at (877) 697-2757 or visit Arizona State Parks Weddings.
One thing to note in Arizona: permits aren’t just about fees—they’re about protection. Many desert environments are fragile, with cryptobiotic soil, archaeological sites, and sensitive vegetation. Following the permit process ensures your ceremony won’t accidentally harm the landscape you came to celebrate.
Whether you’re exchanging vows against a backdrop of red cliffs, cactus silhouettes, or ancient rock formations, Arizona offers a wild and romantic setting—just make sure you’ve got your permit in hand so the only surprise on your wedding day is the stunning desert sunset.
Montana: Mountains, Lakes, and Big Sky Dreams
Montana’s wild beauty shines brightest in Glacier National Park, but it’s also home to incredible state parks that make stunning elopement locations.
In Glacier National Park, a Special Use Permit is required for all weddings, regardless of size. The permit fee is $125, and applications must be submitted at least 14 days before your ceremony. Contact the park office at glac_sup@nps.gov or call (406) 888-7800 to apply. Couples flock to iconic locations like Lake McDonald’s tranquil shoreline, Sun Point with its sweeping lake views, and Many Glacier with its towering mountain backdrop.
Don’t forget that Yellowstone National Park also extends into Montana! Like Idaho, the rules are the same: $200 permit, submitted 30+ days ahead, via yell_special_use@nps.gov or (307) 344-2722. Popular spots include Mammoth Hot Springs and the dramatic landscapes of Lamar Valley.
Montana’s state parks also require permits for weddings. Fees vary by park, but you’ll typically need to apply at least 30 days in advance by contacting the park office directly or calling the Montana Parks Division at (406) 444-3750. Couples love intimate ceremonies at Lone Pine State Park on the Overlook Trail, the badlands of Makoshika State Park, and the natural amphitheater at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park.
Utah: Red Rocks and Canyon Vows
Utah is a desert lover’s dream, with sandstone cliffs, arches, and mesas creating otherworldly ceremony settings. But you guessed it—permits are non-negotiable here too.
At Zion National Park, a Special Use Permit is required for all weddings. The fee is $100, and applications must be submitted at least 14 days before your date. Emailzion_special_use@nps.gov or call (435) 772-3256. Couples love Zion’s designated ceremony spots like Temple of Sinawava, Emerald Pools, or Kolob Canyons.
In Arches National Park, permits cost $185 and also require 14 days’ advance notice. Contact arch_special_use@nps.gov or call (435) 719-2299. Imagine saying “I do” beneath Delicate Arch, at The Windows, or along Park Avenue’s towering sandstone walls.
Bryce Canyon National Park requires a $100 permit, submitted at least 14 days in advance by emailing brca_special_use@nps.gov or calling (435) 834-5322. The amphitheater’s natural hoodoo formations make spots like Sunset Point and Inspiration Point magical elopement backdrops.
Over at Capitol Reef National Park, you’ll also need a $100 permit, submitted 14+ days prior to care_special_use@nps.gov or (435) 425-3791. Couples lovePanorama Point for its endless views or the rustic charm of Gifford House Lawn.
For Utah state parks, a permit is required for weddings, with fees starting at $50 plus a $10 application fee. Deadlines vary by park. Contact the Utah Parks office at(801) 538-7220 or visit Utah State Parks Weddings. Favorite state park ceremony locations include Dead Horse Point’s iconic overlook, Snow Canyon’s red cliffs, and the playful landscape at Goblin Valley State Park.
Nevada: Desert Landscapes and Red Rock Vows
Nevada might not have as many national parks as its western neighbors, but what it lacks in quantity it makes up for in stunning desert landscapes and epic red rock backdrops. If you’re dreaming of an elopement surrounded by fiery sandstone, surreal formations, or wide-open desert skies, Nevada delivers—but it’s critical to know the permit rules.
Let’s start with the park that taught me a very expensive lesson: Valley of Fire State Park. This park is a favorite for couples who want vibrant red rocks, sculpted arches, and sweeping desert views. But here’s what many people don’t realize: Valley of Fire requires a permit for all weddings and photography. In fact, they’ve tightened restrictions over the years, and you can’t simply show up with an officiant and a photographer.
To hold your ceremony here, you need to work with a licensed, pre-approved event company authorized by the park. They handle the permit process, logistics, and compliance with park rules. The permit fee is typically around $300–$500 depending on the company and package. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days in advance (earlier for peak seasons). For questions, you can contact the park directly at valleyoffire@parks.nv.gov or call (702) 397-2088.
I learned the hard way what happens when you skip the permit. Years ago, I was photographing an elopement at Valley of Fire without realizing that the rules had changed—and we hadn’t secured a permit through an authorized vendor. A ranger approached us mid-shoot, and I walked away with a $600 fine for commercial photography without a permit. It was a gut punch, but it also made me a fierce advocate for knowing the rules ahead of time.
Beyond Valley of Fire, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area near Las Vegas is another breathtaking spot for elopements. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), it also requires a permit for weddings and photography. The wedding permit fee is around $200–$300, and you’ll need to apply at least 30 days in advance. Contact the Red Rock office at redrockweddings@blm.gov or call (702) 515-5350. Popular ceremony sites include Calico Basin, Ash Springs, and the Red Spring Boardwalk.
If you’re considering other Nevada state parks—like Cathedral Gorge, Big Bend of the Colorado, or Spring Mountain Ranch—permit requirements vary by park. You’ll want to contact Nevada State Parks Headquarters at (775) 684-2770 or visit Nevada State Parks Weddings. Fees typically range from $50 to $200, and applications are generally due 30 days prior.
One common theme across Nevada’s parks? You can’t DIY your permits. Many parks require you to work through an approved vendor or coordinator, especially in Valley of Fire and Red Rock. This ensures compliance with their event rules, protects the landscape, and simplifies logistics like parking, guest access, and photography restrictions.
The desert might feel like a wide-open playground, but it’s still protected land with regulations in place to keep it pristine. And when you follow the process, you get peace of mind—no fines, no interruptions, just you, your partner, and the timeless beauty of the Mojave.
Why This Matters (And Why You Shouldn’t Skip It)
By now, you might be wondering—why is every single park making me jump through hoops? It’s not about making things harder. It’s about protecting these incredible spaces, keeping visitors safe, and ensuring everyone gets a fair chance to enjoy them.
Skipping a permit can mean more than just a fine (trust me—$600 still stings!). It could lead to your ceremony being shut down, rangers asking you to leave mid-vows, or photographers being fined or banned from future work.
A permit isn’t just red tape—it’s your permission slip to celebrate freely, without fear of interruption.
When you plan ahead, work with vendors who know the process, and factor the permit into your timeline and budget, you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, stress-free adventure.
Final Thoughts: Permits = Peace of Mind
Eloping in nature is about freedom, intimacy, and beauty—but those experiences come with responsibilities. Every national park and state park in Washington, Oregon, California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada and Utah requires thoughtful planning. A permit is how you show respect to the land, ensure your event goes off without a hitch, and protect the memories you’re creating.
And the best part? Once the paperwork is done, you can focus 100% on the love, the view, and the adventure.
If you’re dreaming of an elopement in one of these incredible parks, I’d love to help you navigate the process, secure the right permits, and capture your story from start to finish—no last-minute ranger visits required.
Contact Kim Butler Photography to start planning your stress-free, permit-ready elopement!
