The Ultimate Guide to Planning a National Park Wedding — Including Top Tips and Stunning Locations

A national park wedding can be a spectacular option for couples looking to say "I do" under the giant sequoias, in the middle of an impressive canyon, among the Joshua trees, or even on the icy banks of a glacier. Getting married inside a U.S. national park is possible — it just takes research, planning, and a few permit forms.

In addition to the stunning surroundings, a national park wedding is more affordable than a typical destination wedding. Permits can be less than $100, and many parks limit the number of guests that attend, thereby keeping costs down. Plus, if you choose a park close to home, you can forgo a flight without sacrificing an epic backdrop.

Whether you dream of exchanging your vows in Acadia National Park or at the Grand Canyon, here's everything you need to know about planning a national park wedding.

Tips for Planning a National Park Wedding

Choose the right park.

You and your soon-to-be life partner should make this deeply personal decision together. It can be a meaningful place for both of you, somewhere you've always dreamed of or a spot you know will photograph well. Beyond that, it's critical to consider who will be attending your national park wedding. Ask yourself: Am I OK with friends and family having to travel far? Do they need to hike to any location to be present at the event? Is there a backup plan in case of bad weather? If you're unsure about the guests but are certain of the location, you could always have a small ceremony and host a larger reception later — because double the weddings means double the fun.

Apply for a permit.

You need a permit to get married in most national parks. The rules vary depending on the location and party size. For example, Acadia National Park in Maine doesn't require a permit for simple ceremonies with fewer than 10 people, including the officiant. To apply for a permit, head to the National Park Service (NPS) website and search for the park where you hope to get married. Then, search for "permits." From there, you should be able to find a "special use permit" and information on hosting a wedding at the park. It's important to note that not all parks currently allow for weddings.

Apply for a permit as early as possible, as parks also limit the number of weddings each day, and some do not offer permits on holiday weekends or holidays. Permit fees vary but will likely run between $50 and $500. For example, a permit at Yosemite costs $150. Additionally, the permits do not cover entrance fees for you or your guests but know that all that money is going to conserving the parks for generations to come.

Find the right location.

Next, it's time to find an ideal place inside the park to exchange vows. Some parks offer a list of appropriate destinations and off-limits spots, so check before making any final decisions. There are also a few other things to consider, including whether or not you plan to have others join you during the ceremony. Ask yourself: Is there space for everyone? What are the seating options? Where are the nearest restrooms?

Hire knowledgeable outside vendors.

Having a wedding inside a national park likely means you'll have to limit the number of decorations, as parks have strict rules around what can and cannot be brought in, hung up, or nailed down. Luckily, the natural surroundings are often so gorgeous you won't need much in the way of artificial enhancement. There are plenty of people out there who can help you, including planners and elopement photographers. If you're stuck on how to get things done, let the pros do all the heavy lifting for you.

Understand there will be restrictions.

Most national parks do not allow drones, and there may also be restrictions on bringing outside food. Plus, you may not be able to have a wedding bouquet with non-native plants, as the seeds could fall and germinate. You will also likely not be permitted to bring in speakers or audio equipment that would disturb other park visitors or animals. And under no circumstances can you throw rice or seeds, as this could harm the local wildlife.

Consider a hotel in or near the park.

If the above sounds like too many restrictions, but you still want to have your wedding at a national park, there is an answer. There are some gorgeous lodges in national parks, many of which can host a wedding. You can also plan to say your vows inside the parks and host your reception at one of these spectacular hotels. Even better, you can stay for an immediate honeymoon, too.

The Best Locations for a National Park Wedding

There's no shortage of beautiful national parks in the U.S., but a few stand out as top wedding destinations. If you're not yet set on a spot, consider Virginia's Shenandoah National Park in the spring, when the hills are carpeted with wildflowers. The park is also a prime location for a fall wedding, as the trees turn to vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow. And if you have fewer than 16 guests, you are not required to obtain a permit.

Grand Canyon's breathtaking viewpoints offer a dramatic backdrop for wedding photos. This classic park is as vast, deep, and expansive as your love, making it the perfect place to commit to one another. Permits vary by location, but can cost up to $500.

Acadia National Park is ideal for any season, whether you want a flower-filled spring or summer wedding, a dazzling fall display, or a winter wonderland. Special permits for groups of more than 10 people cost $75.

There's one more type of national park wedding location to consider — a tropical getaway at Virgin Islands National Park. Yes, you can have a wedding surrounded by crystalline waters and colorful coral reefs. Permits start at $25.