Ultimate Humboldt Redwoods State Park Wedding and Elopement Guide

If you’ve been dreaming of getting married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, you’re in the right place. Home to the largest remaining old-growth redwood forest in the world and the iconic Avenue of the Giants, this park is one of the most awe-inspiring (and surprisingly underrated) places to elope in California. As a redwoods elopement photographer, I’m constantly amazed by how many couples overlook this hidden gem.

Not only is the park way less crowded than others in California, but it’s open year-round, super close to some of the best beaches in Northern California, and has a plethora of accessible ceremony locations for guests.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your Humboldt Redwoods State Park elopement, from the best ceremony spots to permits and logistics. And if you’re still exploring options, you can also check out my Redwood National Park elopement guide or my full roundup of the best redwood elopement locations in California.

How to Get Married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park: An Overview

Planning your Humboldt Redwoods State Park elopement might feel overwhelming at first, but it’s actually a lot simpler than you might think. From choosing the perfect grove to handling permits and travel logistics, I’ve broken everything down into easy, actionable steps. Below is a quick overview of the entire process, and you can click through each step for a more detailed guide.

1. Choose your location
2. Pick a date
3. Get a wedding permit
4. Book your travel
5. Get a California marriage license
6. Pack and prepare
7. Get married!

5 Best Ceremony Spots in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Before we dive into the best places to get married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, there are a few important restrictions to be aware of. Some of the park’s most popular groves are off-limits for ceremonies, including California Federation of Women’s Clubs Grove, Founders Grove, and Rockefeller Forest.

Additionally, if you’re considering areas near Drury-Chaney Trail or Grieg-French-Bell Grove, you’ll likely be required to hire a park monitor for your ceremony, which comes with an additional fee (typically around $100 per hour, though this can change).

That said, don’t let those limitations discourage you. There are still plenty of incredible, ceremony-friendly locations throughout the park. Below are five of the best spots to consider for your Humboldt Redwoods elopement.

Prefer an actual venue? I’ve got a pretty cool guide to the best 45+ redwood wedding venues in California!

1. Williams Grove

Williams Grove is hands-down my favorite ceremony location in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, and for good reason. It’s one of the few spots in the redwoods that can accommodate up to 100 guests, making it perfect if you’re planning something a little bigger than a typical elopement. The grove also sits right along the South Fork Eel River, which is a great spot for for portraits, and it’s just off the iconic Avenue of the Giants Road, another must for photos. (If you’re considering incorporating that into your day, I also have a guide on how to get married along the Avenue of the Giants, plus a real wedding for inspiration.)

• Max capacity: 100
• Hiking required: No.
• Crowd estimate: Fairly popular, though the area is large so it’s easy to find a secluded spot if needed. I recommend planning your ceremony to be around sunrise or sunset.
• Good to know: This location is only available mid-May to mid-September.

2. Drury-Chaney Trail

The Drury-Chaney Trail is one of my all-time favorite spots in the area and easily second to Williams Grove. Walking through here feels like being in Jurassic Park, with redwoods and ferns in every direction. The ground is covered in clover. If you’re up for a little exploring, there’s a road just across the way that leads right to the river for some portraits.

• Max capacity: 10
• Hiking required: Yes, an easy 2.1 roundtrip walk, though you don’t need to walk the whole thing.
• Crowd estimate: Popular, expect people.
• Good to know: A park monitor is required for all ceremonies here, typically around $100 per hour. The trail is also close to the main highway, so some traffic noise is likely

3. Big Trees Day Use Area

Another one of my personal favorite ceremony spots (there are so many) is the Big Tree Day Use Area, which is home to some of the largest trees in the entire park. Tucked about 10 to 15 minutes from the main road, this location is much quieter than others and feels a bit more secluded. Like Williams Grove, it also sits along a water source, Bull Creek. There are also plenty of lesser-known trails in the area that are worth exploring if you want to find even more hidden gems.

• Max capacity: 10
• Hiking required: No, but I do recommend walking along some of the trails for photos.
• Crowd estimate: Not super popular, though I would still plan for sunrise or sunset in order to avoid crowds.
• Good to know: A park monitor is required for all ceremonies here, typically around $100 per hour.

4. Stephen’s Grove Loop Trail

If you’re looking for a lesser-traveled spot in the park, I highly recommend Stephen’s Grove Loop Trail. This short, flat trail sits just outside of Miranda and often gets overlooked since it’s a bit farther south than many of the more well-known locations. That said, it absolutely deserves a spot on your list. The grove offers all the redwoods and ferns of other trails without the heavier foot traffic. It’s one of my top recommendations, especially for couples planning a more intimate elopement in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

• Max capacity: 10
• Hiking required: Yes, an easy 0.8 miles roundtrip stroll. There is no elevation gain.
• Crowd estimate: Not super popular, though I would still plan for sunrise or sunset in order to secure parking.
• Good to know: The parking lot is small and can only fit around 3-4 cars.

5. Franklin K. Lane Grove

Last but not least is Franklin K. Lane Grove, which, like Stephen’s Grove, is located a bit farther south than the main groves in the park. Because of this, it tends to be less visited than some of the more popular spots on this list, making it a great option if you’re looking for something quieter. One of the standout features here is the clover-covered forest floor. In the winter and spring, you may also find seasonal creeks flowing through the area. Plus, it’s right across the road from the river for even more variety for photos.

• Max capacity: 10
• Hiking required: Yes, an easy 0.5 mile roundtrip walk.
• Crowd estimate: Fairly well known, I would expect a few people.
• Good to know: The trail can get a bit muddy in the winter.

Best Time of Year to Get Married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is open year-round, which means you can plan your elopement here at any time. That said, some seasons offer a better experience depending on what you’re looking for. In general, spring and fall are the two best times to visit.

April, May, and June (Spring)

Spring is hands-down the best time of year to visit Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Temperatures are cool, crowds are minimal, and the forest is at its most lush. This is when the greenery is at its peak and nearby rivers are full.

The main thing to keep in mind is that spring can be a little rainy. The weather can be a bit unpredictable, so it’s best to pack layers and be prepared for a little drizzle.

July, August, and September (Summer)

Summer is a great option if you’re hoping for warmer, drier weather. However, it’s also the busiest time of year. While it’s still quieter than places like Yosemite or Redwood National Park, you should expect more people on trails and fuller parking lots.

If you’re planning to explore the nearby coastline, summer is the best time to do so. The park often sees morning fog from the marine layer, which means incredible light rays which means amazing photos!

October and November (Fall)

Fall is another incredible time to visit. While you won’t see much seasonal color change, the cooler temperatures and low crowds make for a really enjoyable experience.

Compared to spring, fall tends to be drier, which can make planning a bit easier. Outside of spring, this is one of the best times of year to elope in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

December, January, February, and March (Winter)

Winter is a very underrated time to elope in the park. While you’ll likely experience some rain, the mist and fog you’ll get to experience will be life-changing. Okay, a little dramatic, but it’s true!

This is also the park’s slow season, so you’ll have a much easier time finding empty trails and more affordable lodging. Just keep in mind that temperatures can be chilly and some trails may be muddy.

Do You Need a Permit to Get Married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park?

Yes, if you want to elope or get married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, you’ll need a permit.

One thing to be aware of is that the park still uses a mail-in application process, which can take a bit longer than you might expect. Your permit must be submitted between 6 months and 4 weeks before your wedding date, so be sure to plan ahead.

Here’s exactly how to get your permit:

1. Before you fill out the application, call the permit coordinator at (707) 572-9626 to confirm your date and location. Some locations require an additional fee or a monitor which needs to be paid when you mail in your application.
2. You will then be sent the permit application via email. You can see what the application looks like here.
3. Fill it out. Be sure to include the name and contact information of your wedding planner or officiant if applicable.
4. Submit your signed and completed application with a non-refundable $150 (or whatever fee was discussed over the phone) check or money order payable to “Department of Parks and Recreation.”
5. Mail it to the following address:
   • Racheal Marte-Taylor, North Coast Redwoods District, P.O. Box 2006, Eureka, CA 95502.
6. Once it has been approved, the park will sign it and mail you the final copy.

For more information, check out the official permit page on their site here.

Pro tip: Your photographer should be extremely familiar with this process. Ask them for help if needed. If you hire a photographer who specializes in elopements in the park (wink, wink), they should know exactly how to fill out the application.

How to Get a Marriage License

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is located in Humboldt County, but the good news is that you don’t need to get your marriage license in the same county where you’ll be getting married. This is especially helpful if you’re flying into San Francisco, since the Humboldt County Clerk’s Office is located in Eureka, about 45 minutes north of the park. In that case, it’s often easier to pick up your marriage license in San Francisco before making the drive.

If you’re already in the area, though, getting your marriage license in Humboldt County is simple and straightforward. Here’s how it works:

1. Fill out the online marriage license application.
2. At the end of the application, you’ll pay the $78 fee for the license.
3. Visit the Clerk-Recorder’s Office in person together to complete the process and pick up your license. Walk-ins are welcome, so no appointment is needed. Be sure to bring valid IDs.

The office is open Monday through Friday from 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

That’s it. Quick and easy.

For the most up-to-date information, be sure to check the official Humboldt County website.

Do You Need an Officiant and Witness?

Yes, you will need an officiant and one witness per California law.

Pro tip: Don’t want to hire an officiant? I’m ordained and officiate ceremonies as part of my elopement packages! You can also have a friend or family member officiate your ceremony if they become ordained online.

Where to Stay for Your Humboldt Redwoods Wedding

When planning your Humboldt Redwoods elopement, where you stay is just as important as how you get there. The park is tucked away in a remote part of Northern California, so most couples will be flying in and then driving to the area.

The closest airport is Arcata-Eureka Airport, located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from the park. It’s a small regional airport, so flight options can be limited. Most couples choose to fly into San Francisco International Airport and make the roughly 4 hour and 20 minute drive north. You can also fly into Sacramento or Redding, which have similar drive times, though they’re often a bit more expensive.

Once you arrive, you’ll find a handful of small towns scattered around the park. Here are some of my top recommendations for where to stay:

Miranda

Miranda is a charming, tiny town with a population of around 500 people. It has a small grocery store, the cutest café, and a great local coffee shop. If you’re looking to stay as close to the park as possible, this is one of the best options since it borders Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

BEL Rancho – A charming forest cabin just a few minutes outside of town. This particular Airbnb will have you feeling like you’re staying in a treehouse. Super cozy and private!

Pepperwood Place – A beautiful two bedroom, two bathroom home located within a private gated estate on 5 acres. It’s modern, simple, and located just a few minutes from town.

Caraway Cottage – A super charming red cabin with a gorgeous deck, a large meadow, and even a pond. This is a wildlife lovers paradise!

Garberville

Garberville is one of my personal favorite places to stay in the area. Located about 30 minutes south of Humboldt Redwoods State Park, it has a ton of character and a slightly livelier feel than some of the smaller nearby towns. You can spend time exploring the local shops and eateries or take a drive down Alderpoint Road, which rewards you with incredible views of the surrounding rolling hills.

Hexagon Cabin – I’ve stayed here and I can tell you without a doubt that it’s my favorite Airbnb I’ve ever stayed in. Not only is the location amazing, but the property is gorgeous. You can take a bath outside with 360 degree views of the mountains. Talk about a experience to remember!

Benbow Cabin – Stay right on the Benbow Golf Course in this rustic log cabin. It’s within walking distance to the Historic Benbow Inn and a local convenience store.

The Groves at Redway Beach – This gorgeous cabin is located right along the river. Enjoy and afternoon stroll through the redwoods in the backyard and end the night with a sunset toast overlooking the water.

Ferndale

Ferndale is a quaint Victorian village on California’s north coast and one of my favorite places to visit in the area. It’s about 30 minutes north of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. It’s also incredibly close to the coast, making it a great option if you want to explore nearby beaches. With plenty of local shops, restaurants, and trails to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do during your stay.

Ranch School House – An 1800s farm with views that go on for miles. You will be surrounded by beautiful scenery with horses and cattle found out every window of the house. Plus, it’s only 4 miles from the coast.

Ferndale Barndominium – A quaint and rustic guesthouse in the heart of downtown Ferndale. It’s within walking distance of all the shops and one of the best places for “getting ready” photos on your special day.

How to Spend Your Elopement Day in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Whether you’ve visited the area countless times or this is your first trip, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do around Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Here’s an example of what your elopement day could look like:

Morning

Start your day slow with a cup of coffee from Sips right near the park entrance before getting ready for the big day.

Midday

Say your vows surrounded by redwoods in one of the park’s beautiful groves. After your ceremony, take your time exploring nearby trails for portraits. There are 50 remaining albino redwoods in the world. Humboldt has 6.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can stop by the Shrine Drive-Thru Tree for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Afternoon

Head toward the South Fork Eel River to relax by the water or even take a dip. This is also a great time to enjoy a picnic together, whether you pack something yourselves or grab food from a nearby town.

If you’re up for a little exploring, drive out to the coast and experience the beauty of Northern California’s black sand beaches.

Evening

Wrap up your day with sunset along the coast or back in the redwoods.

If you’re staying nearby, head into town for a relaxed dinner or simply unwind back at your cabin and soak it all in.

What to Know Before Getting Married in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

As an elopement photographer in the area, there are a few things I always like to share with my couples before they make the trip, especially if it’s your first time visiting. A little preparation goes a long way out here.

Bring Dramamine

If you’re planning to explore beyond the park, especially out toward the coast, be prepared for some very windy roads. If you tend to get motion sick, packing Dramamine can make a huge difference and help you actually enjoy the drive.

It’s Remote

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is pretty tucked away, which is part of what makes it so special. That said, don’t expect big stores like Walmart or Target nearby. Most businesses in the area are small and locally owned, and options can be limited. Plan ahead and pick up anything you might need before heading into the park.

There’s No Cell Service

The park is fairly off-the-grid. While you might get some service in nearby towns, it’s very limited once you’re in the redwoods. Be sure to download maps, directions, and any important details ahead of time so you’re not relying on service.

It’s Not Very Dog-Friendly

While dogs are allowed in certain developed areas, they’re not permitted on most trails or in many of the best grove locations. If you’re hoping to include your dog in your elopement, be sure to choose locations where they’re allowed.

Looking For a Humboldt Redwoods State Park Wedding Photographer?

You’re in luck! My name is Brianna. I’m based in Northern California and have been photographing weddings and elopements in Humboldt Redwoods State Park for over 7 years.

I know how overwhelming planning can feel, especially if you’re traveling or visiting for the first time. That’s where I come in. I help guide you through the entire process, from building a custom timeline and recommending the best locations to assisting with permits and navigating the marriage license process.

My goal is to make this as stress-free as possible so you can focus on actually enjoying your day.

If you want to learn more, you can check out my pricing page or explore what’s included in my elopement packages below.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park Elopement Packages

• 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
• A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
  • Personalized elopement location recommendations
  • Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
  • Assistance and information to help you with permits, licenses, etc.
  • 90+ page elopement planning guide filled with tips and tricks
  • Customized elopement timelines
• Optional complimentary officiant services
• Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
• Complimentary album design
• 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
• Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
• Starting at $6,500

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