Redwoods Elopement Guide: How to Elope in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park, located in Northern California, is a place I believe everyone should experience at least once in their life. There’s something about being encompassed by giant trees that makes you realize, in the best way possible, how small you truly are. There are numerous trails, beaches, and off-the-beaten-path locations to explore. Not to mention, its remoteness makes it the perfect honeymoon destination for couples looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning your very own redwoods elopement or wedding, specifically in Redwood National Park.

Can I Get Married Anywhere in the Park?

Technically, no. Ceremonies are not allowed at the most popular places in the park, that being Fern Canyon, the James Irvine Trail, Stout Grove, or the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. However, you are allowed to take portraits here so long as you practice Leave No Trace guidelines and it’s just the two of you.

If you want to get married at a different location than the pre-approved ceremony sites, you can submit a permit application that will go out for a two-week review with the staff. We’ll talk more about this in the permit section.

When Is the Best Time of Year to Elope in Redwood National Park?

The fall and spring are the two best times to elope in the park. Both the weather and crowds are great during this time of year. If you’re wanting to avoid all the crowds, steer clear from summer. Visiting during this time comes with traffic, limited parking, increased lodging prices, and lots of mosquitos. Don’t mind a little rain? The winter is a great time to elope. There is hardly anyone in the park and while you might experience some rain, most of it falls onto the trees, protecting you from getting soaking wet.

Do I Need a Permit to Elope in Redwood National Park?

Yes, you will need a special use permit to elope in the park. Below are all the steps you need to go through to require a permit.

1. Choose your ceremony location.
2. Decide what time you want to have your ceremony at (ceremonies are only scheduled for 1-3 hours).
3. Fill out the special use permit application.
4. Fill out the threatened and endangered species addendum.
5. Email both of these forms to the permit coordinator at REDW_Special_Use_Permits@nps.gov.
6. Once the forms have been received, you will get an email where you can pay for your permit online. The permit cost is $100 unless you want to elope outside of a pre-approved ceremony site, in which case, the permit would cost $200.

You can see all the forms and steps you need to take on the official park website here.

Note: Permits will not be issued during major holidays due to crowding. Live or dried natural plant/flower material is prohibited as well as props such as arbors, stands, etc. Food and alcohol is also prohibited during ceremonies.

Note: Check out this article to see how to get a California marriage license.

Important Information You Need to Know for Your Redwoods Elopement

#1: The parks are remote. Most people don’t realize just how remote the parks truly are. Don’t expect to find any fancy restaurants, an abundance of lodging, or big chain stores. Like I said before, it’s a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

#2: Download maps offline. All the parks are known to have iffy service. Always be sure to download your maps offline in case you don’t have any service.

#3: Always bring rain gear. Even if you visit during the middle of the summer, always be sure to bring rain gear, as the weather in the area can be a bit unpredictable.

#4: Bring food and gas. There aren’t any restaurants or gas stations within the park. Be sure to fill up and bring some food with you into the park on your elopement day.

#5: The roads are windy. If you get carsick easily, bring medicine, as the roads are quite windy.

How Much Does it Cost to Elope in Redwood National Park?

While each couple has different wants for their elopement day, here is a cost breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a redwoods elopement.

• $700 Plane Tickets – This greatly depends on where you’ll be flying from. Since most airports around the park are smaller, plane tickets may be a bit pricier.
• $400 Rental Car
• $350-$1,000 Two-Night Lodging – This greatly depends on your lodging preferences. There aren’t many places to stay in the park, which makes lodging a bit more expensive than other places.
• $100-$200 Location Permit – This depends on whether or not you select a pre-approved ceremony site.
• $70-$100 California Marriage License – This depends on the county you get your license from.
• $5,500 Elopement Photographer
• $400-$600 Hair and Makeup – Due to the remoteness of the park, many vendors will charge a travel fee. I would budget a little more for this vendor.
• $300-$600 Florist
• $0-$500 Officiant – $0 if I or a family member officiate your ceremony, though you can also hire one if it’s within budget.

Best Airbnbs Near Redwood National Park

Below are some of the best Airbnbs you can find near Redwood National and State Parks.

Brookings Airbnbs

Located in Oregon, Brookings is mainly known for Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor, a great place to check out if you have the time. Brookings has a few grocery stores, thrift stores, and dining options. It’s close to Jedediah Smith and Del Norte.

• Cottage in Brookings – A quaint cottage tucked behind some trees for those looking for a short stay near downtown.
• Pelican Path – A modern, gated home with private beach access.
• Ocean Mist Beach House – The perfect stay for elopements with guests, located right on the cliff with private beach access.

Crescent City Airbnbs

Crescent City is located in California and also lies close to Jedediah Smith and Del Norte, as well as Prairie Creek. Similar to Brookings, you’ll find a few grocery stores like Safeway and Grocery Outlet, as well as local dining and activities.

• The Gasquet Fly In – While technically located in Gasquet, this modern home is located at the bottom of emerald green mountains, has a pool, and even has a runway for sport pilots.
• Jedediah Smith Redwoods Retreat – This private home provides a ton of natural light and has stunning views of the nearby coast.
• Panoramic Ocean Views – Located just steps away from the beach, this giant home not only has a game room, but it can host up to 11 people, perfect for elopements with guests.

Arcata and Eureka Airbnbs

Located close to Prairie Creek and Redwood National Park, Arcata and Eureka are known for their art scene and laidback vibe. These towns have a bit more lodging and shopping options than the other towns.

• Vimala Voga Retreat House – Just steps away from the beach lies this artsy home located within a private garden.
• The Forest Oasis – This cottage core inspired home is surrounded by redwood trees and offer deer sighting.
• Yellow Victorian Home – This historic home located near downtown Eureka is any history lovers dream. Plus, it’s great for guests!

Redwood National Park Elopement Packages

I’m Brianna, a California elopement photographer who helps plan and photograph elopements in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest. Check out my starting prices below and see how I can help plan and photograph your epic elopement!

Redwood National Park Elopement Package Pricing

• 4 hours – 1.5 days of elopement coverage anywhere in California
• 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
• 24-48 hour sneak peeks to share with the world
• Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
• Starting at $5,500

Want more elopement inspiration? Check out my Forest Wedding Guide, Oregon Elopement Guide, and Washington Elopement Guide.

FAQ