How to Elope in Redwood National Park in 2025

If you’ve been looking for an underrated, crowd-free place to elope, look no further than Redwood National Park (and I’m not just saying that because I’m local to the area). When I tell you this national park gets half the praise it deserves, I’m not kidding. Redwood National Park is so much more than just tall trees; it’s black sand beaches, fern-lined forest trails, huge wildlife, turquoise rivers, and more.

Today, I’ll be walking you through how to elope in Redwood National Park, step-by-step. Whether you need location recommendations, permit instructions, or weather information, I’ve got you covered, so let’s *hypothetically* hop in the car and explore this national park together!

Step 1: Choose Your Redwood National Park Elopement Location

Redwood National Park has pre-approved ceremony sites, but you’re not required to use them. If you have a specific place in mind that isn’t on the list, you can still follow all the same steps outlined in this guide. The only difference is that your permit may take a bit longer to process, since the park will need to review your chosen location and guest count to ensure it’s suitable for a ceremony.

Ceremonies are not allowed at Fern Canyon, the James Irvine Trail, Stout Grove, or the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, but you can take portraits there!

Below are the pre-approved ceremony locations, their max capacities, and a corresponding map.

• Templeman Grove – 20 participants
• Organ Donor’s Grove – 20 participants
• River Trail – 8 participants
• Crescent Beach Day Use – 20 participants (available Oct 25th – May 1)
• Crescent Beach Overlook – 20 participants (available Oct 25th – May 1)
• High Bluff Overlook – 20 participants
• Merriman Grove – 8 participants
• Zig Zag #2 – 10 participants
• Schmidt Grove – 20 participants
• Prairie Creek Amphitheater – 20 participants (available Oct 25th – May 1)
• Lost Man Creek Gate – 20 participants
• Berry Glen – 6 participants

Templeman Grove

Templeman Grove is a hidden gem and one of my personal favorite redwood elopement spots. It’s quiet, spacious, and right next to the Smith River (two locations in one!) The only downside is that it’s near a road, so you will hear some occasional traffic noise.

• Max capacity: 20
• Hiking required: No.
• Closest town: Crescent City (15 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Want to see a real elopement at Templeman Grove? Check out Kristina and Jake’s dreamy winter elopement here.

Organ Donor’s Grove

Organ Donor’s Grove is another amazing ceremony spot in Redwood National Park. This grove is just minutes from town and is surrounded by ferns with plenty of space and parking for guests. It’s so secluded that you could visit mid-day on a weekend and have it entirely to yourself!

• Max capacity: 20
• Hiking required: No.
• Closest town: Crescent City (7 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Check out Rachel and Alex’s elopement at Organ Donor’s Grove here!

River Trail

The River Trail is a popular pick for ceremonies. It runs alongside the Smith River and connects to Stout Grove, one of the park’s most popular trails. Since this location sees lots of visitors, a sunrise or sunset ceremony is best for privacy.

• Max capacity: 8
• Hiking required: Yes, about a quarter of a mile.
• Closest town: Crescent City (28 minutes).
• Crowd level: Fairly busy, plan for sunrise or sunset.

Crescent Beach

Crescent Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Redwood National Park. It’s close to town, spacious enough to find a secluded spot, and dog-friendly. On a clear day, the sunsets here are stunning.

• Max capacity: 20 (only available October 25th – May 1st)
• Hiking required: No.
• Closest town: Crescent City (8 minutes).
• Crowd level: Fairly busy, plan for sunrise or sunset.

Crescent Beach Overlook

Crescent Beach Overlook is perfect for couples who are looking for sweeping ocean views. It can get a little busy, but if you time it right, you could have the entire place to yourself. The only downside is the railing that could potentially obstruct the view for photos.

• Max capacity: 20 (only available October 25th – May 1st)
• Hiking required: No, just a short walk from the parking lot.
• Closest town: Crescent City (10 minutes).
• Crowd level: Fairly busy, plan for sunrise or sunset.

High Bluff Overlook

High Bluff Overlook is hands down my favorite overlook in the park. It’s absolutely breathtaking, and there’s even a little forest area with picnic tables for cake and champagne. Just a heads-up, if you’re scared of heights, the steep drop-offs might make this location a no-go.

• Max capacity: 20
• Hiking required: No, just a short walk from the parking lot.
• Closest town: Klamath (11 minutes).
• Crowd level: Fairly busy, plan for sunrise or sunset.

Merriman Grove

Merriman Grove is one of the more jungle-looking ceremony spots in Redwood National Park, tucked away at the end of Ah-Pah Trail. The redwoods here aren’t the biggest in the park, but if you’re looking for a fern-heavy location without the crowds, this is a perfect choice.

• Max capacity: 8
• Hiking required: Yes, 0.4 miles roundtrip.
• Closest town: Klamath (9 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Zig Zag #2

Zig Zag #2 feels straight out of Jurassic Park, with ferns, mossy trees, and a trail that runs along Prairie Creek. It’s one of the few spots that requires some hiking, but it’s well worth the effort, as you’ll almost never run into large crowds on this trail.

• Max capacity: 10
• Hiking required: Yes, 3.5 miles roundtrip though you don’t need to hike the entire loop to get a good ceremony spot.
• Closest town: Klamath (13 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Schmidt Grove

Schmidt Grove is one of my top picks for redwood ceremonies. It’s dog-friendly, spacious, and has multiple road pull-offs for photos. At the end of the grove, there’s a dreamy trail that’s perfect for portraits. The road to get here is a winding dirt road, but it’s manageable in a sedan. It closes seasonally, but you can still walk the road to find a ceremony spot.

• Max capacity: 20
• Hiking required: No.
• Closest town: Klamath (18 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Prairie Creek Amphitheater

Prairie Creek Amphitheater is perfect for couples wanting a more formal setting or a location with seating for guests. The path leading to it is gorgeous, and the space offers plenty of privacy. If this location is on your list, be sure to book it in advance as it can be used for other weddings and meetings!

• Max capacity: 20 (only available October 25th – May 1st)
• Hiking required: No.
• Closest town: Klamath (20 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Lost Man Creek

Lost Man Creek is a scenic biking trail that runs along a creek, offering multiple shaded spots for ceremonies. While the trail itself doesn’t have many towering redwoods, there are some near the picnic area. It’s one of the lesser-known trails in the park and one of my personal favorites.

• Max capacity: 20
• Hiking required: No, but walking up the trail a bit will lead to better ceremony spots.
• Closest town: Klamath (20 minutes).
• Crowd level: Private, don’t expect people.

Berry Glen

Berry Glen is a small, scenic trail connected to the famous Lady Bird Johnson Grove. It’s filled with old-growth trees, fern meadows, and plenty of ceremony spots for smaller groups. Since it connects to a popular trail, you may see a few other visitors.

• Max capacity: 6
• Hiking required: No, but walking up the trail a bit will lead to better ceremony spots.
• Closest town: Klamath (20 minutes).
• Crowd level: Fairly popular, expect a few people.

Bonus: Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is technically separate from Redwood National Park, but it’s too gorgeous not to mention. It’s a great option for couples with guests flying in, as it’s much closer to cities like Sacramento and San Francisco. Plus, it’s usually less busy than Redwood National Park!

If you want all the details on getting married here, check out my in-depth guide with location recommendations, permit info, and everything else you need to know.

Step 2: Choose the Best Time of Year to Elope in the Redwoods

Redwood National Park has a mild climate year-round thanks to its coastal location. However, the best time to elope here is in the spring or fall. Check out the pros and cons of each season below!

Summer (June-August)

Summer in Redwood National Park means more traffic, limited parking, higher lodging prices, and plenty of mosquitos (especially in July). Popular spots like Fern Canyon require reservations, and trail parking fills up fast. If you’re set on a summer date, plan for a weekday sunrise or sunset ceremony to avoid the crowds.

PROS	CONS
• Warm weather • Dry hiking trails • No rain	• High travel costs • Crowds on popular trails • Reservations required for specific trails • Lots of mosquitos

Fall (September-November)

Fall is an amazing time to elope in Redwood National Park. While the redwoods won’t have fall colors since they’re evergreens, you’ll get great weather, fewer crowds, empty beaches, and better lodging deals. It’s one of my favorite times to visit!

PROS	CONS
• Cooler weather • Minimal crowds • Lower travel costs • Few fall colors	• Potential chance of rain

Winter (December-March)

Winter in Redwood National Park is seriously underrated. It’s the park’s off-season, so you’ll have most locations to yourself. While you’ll likely get some rain, the trees provide natural cover, keeping you from getting soaked. Expect empty trails, overcast skies, and plenty of wildlife!

PROS	CONS
• No crowds • Overcast (amazing for photos) • Lower travel costs • Tons of wildlife (elk specifically) • Very green	• Higher chance of rain • Muddy trails • Potential road closures due to weather

Spring (April-May)

Spring is the most magical time to elope in Redwood National Park. The weather can be unpredictable, but the rain makes the greenery extra lush. You won’t find crowds, but you will see plenty of wildlife! It’s my top-recommended season for elopements.

PROS	CONS
• No crowds • Overcast (amazing for photos) • Lower travel costs • Tons of wildlife (elk specifically) • Very green	• Higher chance of rain • Muddy trails

Step 3: Get a Permit

Redwood National Park, also known as Redwood National and State Parks, is made up of 4 different parks:

1. Redwood National Park (official national park)
2. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (California state park)
3. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park (California state park)
4. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (California state park)

While these parks border each other, the national park has a separate permit system than the state parks. Note that permits are not issued during major holiday weekends due to crowding.

How to Get a Permit From Redwood National Park

1. Choose your ceremony location from the pre-approved ceremony sites:
   • Crescent Beach Day Use 
   • Crescent Beach Overlook
   • High Bluff Overlook
   • Lost Man Creek Gate
   • Berry Glen
   • A different location (requires additional approval)
2. Decide on a time (ceremonies are scheduled for 1–3 hours).
3. Fill out the required forms:
   • Special use permit application
   • Threatened and endangered species addendum
4. Email both forms to the permit coordinator at REDW_Special_Use_Permits@nps.gov.
5. Pay the permit fee after receiving a payment link via email:
   • $100 for pre-approved ceremony sites
   • $200 for other locations (requires a two-week review for approval)
6. Receive your permit via email and print it to bring on your elopement day.

How to Get a Permit From the State Park

1. Choose your ceremony location from the pre-approved ceremony sites:
   • Templeman Grove
   • Organ Donor’s Grove 
   • River Trail
   • Merriman Grove 
   • Zig Zag #2 
   • Schmidt Grove 
   • Prairie Creek Amphitheater
   • A different location (requires additional approval)
2. Decide on a time (ceremonies are scheduled for 1–3 hours).
3. Fill out the required forms:
   • Special event permit application
   • Special event permit supplement
   • Certificate of insurance (only required if vendors, such as a photographer or videographer, are present). Some vendors handle this for couples (I do), but not all do.
4. Email all completed forms to NCRD.Permits@parks.ca.gov.
5. Send a check or money order for $200 made payable to the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation via mail to: North Coast Redwoods District
   Attn: Permit Coordinator
   P.O. Box 2006
   Eureka, CA 95502
6. Once your forms are received and the payment is processed, you’ll receive your permit via email. Print it out and bring it with you on your elopement day.

You can find all the necessary forms and additional details on the official park website.

Step 4: Book Your Travel

Most people don’t realize how remote Redwood National Park really is. There aren’t any fine dining spots, Targets, or big-name stores nearby. This is the park for couples looking to unplug and unwind.

That being said, there are a few airports you can fly into, depending on your budget and travel preferences. Here’s how far each one is from the main park:

• California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport – 30 minutes (flights from major West Coast cities, but usually pricey with no nonstop options)
• Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport – 3.5 hours (best balance of price and convenience)
• Redding Municipal Airport – 4.5 hours (direct flights from select West Coast cities like Seattle and San Francisco)
• Sacramento International Airport – 6 hours (more flight options, usually cheaper)
• San Francisco International Airport – 6 hours (cheaper with plenty of flight options, most popular airport)
• Portland International Airport – 7 hours (cheaper with plenty of flight options)

Where to Stay for Your Redwoods Elopement

Here are some of the best towns to stay in if you’re planning a Redwood National Park elopement:

Brookings

Brookings is a great option if you’re eloping in the Jedediah Smith area. It’s a small coastal town just over the Oregon border with grocery stores, thrift shops, and dining options. If you want to explore the Oregon coast while you’re in the area, Brookings is home to Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a gorgeous stretch of coastline with scenic trails, overlooks, and rocky beaches.

Crescent City

Crescent City is the most popular place to stay for couples eloping in Redwood National Park. It’s close to all the state parks (Jedediah Smith, Del Norte, and Prairie Creek) and offers more things to do than Brookings. You’ll find a unique lighthouse, a fun aquarium, and plenty of beaches to explore. Plus, it’s just minutes from some of the best trails in the area.

Trinidad

If you’re looking for a quiet beach town, Trinidad is an amazing choice, especially if you’re eloping near the southern area of Redwood National Park. The beaches here are incredible, and there are plenty of nearby state parks worth checking out.

Can You Bring Your Dog?

Yes! Redwood National Park is more dog-friendly than most national parks. While dogs aren’t allowed on most trails, they are welcome in these areas:

• Trails and Roads: Myrtle Creek Trail, Craig’s Creek Trail, Cal Barrel Road, Howland Hill Road, Alder Camp Road, and Walker Road.
• Parking Areas: Fern Canyon, Lady Bird Johnson, Tall Trees Trail, and Stout Grove parking lots only. Elk Meadow Day Use Area parking lot.
• Scenic View Points: Klamath River Overlook, Redwood Creek Overlook.
• Developed Campgrounds: Elk Prairie Campground, Gold Bluffs Beach, Mill Creek Campground, and Jedediah Smith Campground.
• Beaches: Freshwater Beach, Wilson Creek Beach, Gold Bluffs Beach and Crescent Beach.

Step 5: Book Your Redwood National Park Elopement Activities

If you’re planning your elopement in the redwoods, you’re in for a treat. Here are some of my top recommendations for things to do while you’re in the area:

• Explore the Trees of Mystery and walk the redwood canopy or take the gondola through the forest
• Explore Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor in Brookings
• Enjoy an elevated dining experience at the Black Trumpet Bistro
• Tour a historic lighthouse in Crescent City
• Plan a breakfast picnic on the coast
• Stay after dark and have a bonfire on the beach with s’mores
• Share a first dance near the Smith River
• Walk downtown Brookings or Crescent City and explore the shops
• Drive the famous Howland Hills Road through the park
• Kayak on the Chetco River
• Grab a beer and bite to eat at one of the many breweries
• Hire a private chef to cook you a three-course celebration meal

Step 6: Create an Elopement Timeline

It’s time to create a timeline! I usually recommend 8 hours of coverage in a place as massive (did you get it?) as the redwoods! Here are a few examples to help get you started:

Step 7: Get a Marriage License

You can get a marriage license in any county in California. It’s valid for 90 days. California only allows in-person applications.

Most couples getting married in Redwood National Park get their marriage license in Del Norte County. Here’s how:

1. Walk in or make an appointment at the County Clerk’s Office in Crescent City (981 H St, Crescent City, CA 95531). They issue marriage licenses from 8am-4pm, Monday through Friday. You must show up together.
2. Fill out a marriage license application.
3. Bring a valid ID and pay the $61 license fee.
4. You’re all set!

California requires an officiant and one witness for your ceremony.

Step 8: Elope in the Redwoods!

You did it! Congratulations on planning the perfect Redwood National Park elopement.

Still feeling overwhelmed with the planning process? I’m here to help! I’m Brianna, a Northern California elopement photographer local to Redwood National Park who specializes in planning and photographing elopements in Northern California. Check out my starting prices below or take a peek through my pricing here and see how I can help plan and photograph your one-of-a-kind redwoods elopement!

Redwood National Park Elopement Packages

• 4 hours – 2 days of elopement coverage anywhere in Redwood National 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, marriage 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 $8,000

Jaw-Dropping Redwoods Elopement Photos

Check out some photos from other Redwood National Park elopements to get inspiration of what your day could look like.

Pin for Later

Save these to your Pinterest for inspiration (and to come back to this helpful guide) whenever you need it!

Don’t forget your FREE elopement guide!

An all-in-one planning guide for all things elopements! Whether you’re hoping to hike through the mountains of Washington or sip a margarita on the beaches of California, this comprehensive elopement guide has everything you need to know about how to plan the perfect elopement.

I LIKE FREE THINGS

You? You’re the kind of person that gets a lil’ teary eyed looking at an epic view…

That moment when you turn to the person you’re with and ask, “Are you seeing this?” I live for it. Places with trees and mountains and soft breezes that make you say, “I can’t believe this place exists,” I spend pretty much all of my free time searching for and exploring them.

These places have always felt like home to me. And if you’re the kind of person who also feels more at home surrounded by trees than by people? Then we’ll get along really well. The Pacific Northwest is full of secret spots that are too special to share with just anyone. But it would make me happy to share them with you on your wedding day.

If the mountains/beaches/redwood forests are calling your name, go ahead…

SAY YES TO THE ADVENTURE

(I promise you won’t regret it.)

P.S. I’m Brianna. My mission is to create custom, one-of-a-kind elopement experiences in the Pacific Northwest that allow couples to fully immerse themselves in the highest levels of excitement and wonder on a day designed exclusively for them.