How to Elope in Redwood National Park in 2025

If you’re thinking about ditching the traditional wedding and heading out to the incredible Redwood National and State Parks to elope, you’ve made a great choice! Towering trees, peaceful trails, and that fresh forest air are all perfect for couples who love nature and want to keep things simple—just you, your partner, and nature. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to elope in Redwood National Park, from where to go and when to go, to the legal stuff, and even what activities to enjoy while you’re there.

Table of Contents

• Where is Redwood National and State Parks?
• How to Elope in Redwood National and State Parks
• Where to Elope in Redwood National Park
  • Redwood National Park Ceremony Locations
    • Crescent Beach Day Use
    • Crescent Beach Overlook
    • High Bluff Overlook
    • Lost Man Creek Gate
    • Berry Glen
  • Jedediah Smith State Park Ceremony Locations
    • Templeman Grove
    • Organ Donor’s Grove
    • River Trail
  • Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
    • Merriman Grove
    • Zig Zag #2
    • Schmidt Grove
    • Prairie Creek Amphitheater
  • Del Norte Coast State Park Ceremony Locations
• Best Time of Year to Elope in Redwood National Park
• How to Legally Get Married to Elope in Redwood National and State Parks
• Redwood National Park Elopement Activities
• Redwood National Park Vendors
• Where to Stay for Your Redwood National Park Elopement
• Redwood National and State Parks Elopement Packages
• Redwood National Park Elopement Timeline Samples
• FAQs for Eloping in California’s Redwoods
• Final Tips for Eloping in Redwood National and State Parks

Where is Redwood National and State Parks?

Redwood National and State Parks stretch along the northern coast of California, covering an area from Crescent City down to the south near Orick. The parks are made up of Redwood National Park and three state parks: Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, and Prairie Creek. These parks are home to some of the tallest trees on the planet, and they offer all kinds of different landscapes, with massive redwood trees, rugged coastline, and beautiful rivers and streams.

This spot is perfect if you and your partner want to feel like you’re completely surrounded by nature. It’s remote, quiet, and absolutely beautiful—making it ideal for an elopement.

Closest Major Cities/Towns

While the parks are pretty remote, there are a few small towns nearby where you can base yourself for your elopement:

• Crescent City: The closest town is Crescent City, about 10 minutes from the northern entrance to the park. It’s small but has enough hotels, restaurants, and stores to stock up on anything you need.
• Trinidad: A little further south, there’s Trinidad, which is also a charming coastal town with access to both the parks and some beautiful beaches.
• Eureka: Eureka, about 45 minutes south, is the largest city in the area and has more options for places to stay and eat.

Closest Airports

These airports provide good access to the redwoods, depending on where you want to base yourself for your elopement.

• Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV)
  • 1 hour 45 minutes from Crescent City
  • 15 minutes from Trinidad
  • 45 minutes from Eureka
• Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) (in Oregon)
  • 2 hours 30 minutes from Crescent City
  • 4 hours from Trinidad
  • 4 hours 15 minutes from Eureka
• Redding Regional Airport (RDD)
  • 4 hours 30 minutes from Crescent City
  • 3 hours 15 minutes from Trinidad
  • 3 hours 15 minutes from Eureka
• Charles M. Schulz–Sonoma County Airport (STS)
  • 5 hours 15 minutes from Crescent City
  • 4 hours from Trinidad
  • 3 hours 45 minutes from Eureka
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) [major airport with cheaper and more flight options]
  • 6 hours 45 minutes from Crescent City
  • 6 hours from Trinidad
  • 5 hours 15 minutes from Eureka
• Sacramento International Airport (SMF) [major airport with cheaper and more flight options]
  • 6 hours 30 minutes from Crescent City
  • 5 hours 15 minutes from Trinidad
  • 5 hours from Eureka

How to Elope in Redwood National and State Parks

Planning an elopement in the Redwoods might seem overwhelming, but I promise it’s not as hard as it sounds. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your elopement:

1. Choose a Date
   • The best time to elope in Redwood National and State Parks is something I’ll break down in detail later, but for now, start thinking about whether you want warmer weather with more crowds or cooler weather with fewer people.
2. Book Your Elopement Photographer
   • I’m here to help you capture your adventure and tell your story in a way that’s real and authentic. With my experience in the Redwoods, I can also help with planning, finding the best spots, and making sure your day goes smoothly. You can check out my California elopement photography packages here.
3. Pick a Ceremony Location
   • There are several approved elopement ceremony spots in the parks.
4. Get a Permit
   • You’ll need a permit to elope in Redwood National and State Parks.
5. Hire Vendors
   • Even though you’re eloping, you might still want to hire a few vendors to make the day easier. Consider hiring a hair and makeup artist, and maybe even a local caterer for a picnic or small celebration meal.
6. Book Lodging
   • If you’re coming from out of town, you’ll want to book a place to stay nearby. There are cozy cabins, lodges, and even camping options around Crescent City, Klamath, or Orick. Whether you’re looking for a rustic experience or something with a little more comfort, I can help you find a place that works for you.
7. Apply for a Marriage License
   • This is a big one—you can’t get married without it! I’ve got you covered on the details below.
8. Pack for Your Adventure
   • Remember, this is an outdoor adventure. You’ll need to dress for the weather, bring snacks and water, and have comfy shoes for exploring. I always remind couples that the Redwoods can get misty, so prepare for damp conditions.

Where to Elope in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park has a list of pre-approved spots for elopement ceremonies. You’re not limited to not required to use these locations, but the park prefers it and the permit fee is lower in these areas. The only locations where you are not allowed to hold a ceremony are: Fern Canyon, the James Irvine Trail, Stout Grove, and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail.

Here is a list of all the pre-approved ceremony locations outline by the parks and how many people your party can have up to:

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

Redwood National Park Ceremony Locations

Redwood National Park has a list of pre-approved spots for elopement ceremonies. You don’t have to use one of these locations, but it’s a good idea since the permit fee is lower if you do (I’ll cover more on permits later). The only spots where you can’t hold a ceremony are Fern Canyon, the James Irvine Trail, Stout Grove, and the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. But don’t worry—you’re still allowed to take portraits in those areas, so they can be a perfect backdrop for your photos!

Jedediah Smith State Park Ceremony Locations

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Ceremony Locations

Del Norte Coast State Park Ceremony Locations

There are no pre-approved ceremony locations in Del Norte Coast State Park.

Best Time of Year to Elope in Redwood National Park

How to Legally Get Married to Elope in Redwood National and State Parks

How to Get a Marriage License

Getting a marriage license in California is pretty simple, and there’s no residency requirement, so even if you’re coming from out of state, you can easily get married here. Your license will be valid for 90 days, which gives you plenty of flexibility around your elopement day.

Here’s how to get your marriage license, especially if you’re eloping in the Redwoods:

1. Go to the County Clerk’s Office
   • Del Norte County is the go-to for most couples eloping in Redwood National Park. You can either walk in or make an appointment at the County Clerk’s Office in Crescent City. The address is 981 H St, Crescent City, CA 95531. They’re open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, and you’ll need to show up together.
2. Bring Valid ID
   • You both need to bring valid identification, like a driver’s license, passport, or military I.D. You’ll need to present these in person when you apply. Both of you must be there to sign the paperwork, so plan to visit the office together.
3. Fill Out the Application
   • Once you’re at the clerk’s office, you’ll fill out the marriage license application. It’s straightforward, and the office staff will help if you have any questions.
4. Pay the Fee
   • There’s a fee of $61 for the marriage license in Del Norte County, so make sure to bring your payment method. Some offices take cash, credit, or debit, but it’s always good to check beforehand.
5. Get Your License!
   • After you’ve filled out the paperwork and paid the fee, you’re all set! You’ll walk out with your marriage license, which will be valid for 90 days.
6. Have a Witness and Officiant
   • California requires at least one witness for your ceremony, and the license needs to be signed by the officiant and your witness(es). If you don’t have a witness, I can help you find one, and since I’m also ordained, I can officiate your ceremony!

If you’re coming from out of state, some counties in California allow you to apply for a marriage license online or by mail. But I recommend picking up your license in person the day before your elopement to keep things stress-free.

How to Get a Permit to Elope in Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National Park and the California State Parks have different permit systems, so here’s what you need to do for each:

Steps to Get a Permit to Elope in Redwood National Park:

1. Choose Your Ceremony Location: Pick one of the pre-approved ceremony sites in Redwood National Park, or an alternate you’ve found:
   • Crescent Beach Day Use (Max party of 20)- Available Oct 25-May 1
   • Crescent Beach Overlook (Max party of 20)- Available Oct 25-May 1
   • High Bluff Overlook (Max party of 20)
   • Lost Man Creek Gate (Max party of 20)
   • Berry Glen (Max party size of 6)
2. Decide on Ceremony Timing: You’ll need to pick the time for your ceremony. Ceremonies in the national park are scheduled for 1-3 hours.
3. Fill Out the Required Forms:
   • Special Use Permit Application
   • Threatened and Endangered Species Addendum
4. Submit Your Application: Email both completed forms to the permit coordinator at: REDW_Special_Use_Permits@nps.gov.
5. Pay the Permit Fee: After submitting your forms, you’ll get an email with a link to pay the permit fee online.
   • $100 for pre-approved ceremony sites.
   • $200 if you’re eloping at a location outside the pre-approved sites. This will also require a 2-week review by the park staff.
6. Receive Your Permit: Once your payment is processed, your permit will be emailed to you. Print this and bring it with you on your elopement day.

Steps to Get a Permit in the State Parks:

1. Choose Your Ceremony Location: Pick one of the pre-approved ceremony sites in the state parks, or an alternate you’ve found:
   • Templeman Grove (Max party of 20)
   • Organ Donor’s Grove (Max party of 20)
   • River Trail (Max party of 8)
   • Merriman Grove (Max party of 8)
   • Zig Zag #2 (Max party of 10)
   • Schmidt Grove (Max party of 20)
   • Prairie Creek Amphitheater (Max party of 20)– Available Oct 25-May 1
2. Fill Out the Required Forms:
   • Special Event Permit Application
   • Special Event Permit Supplement
   • Certificate of Insurance (This is only required if you have vendors like a photographer, videographer, etc. I take care of this for all of my couples)
3. Submit Your Application: Email all the completed forms to: NCRD.Permits@parks.ca.gov.
4. Pay the Permit Fee: Send a check or money order for $200 made payable to “State of California Department of Parks and Recreation.” Mail it to:
   • North Coast Redwoods District
     Attn: Permit Coordinator
     P.O. Box 2006
     Eureka, CA 95502
5. Receive Your Permit: Once your forms and payment are processed, your permit will be emailed to you. Make sure to print it and bring it along on your elopement day.

Things to note:

• No Permits on Major Holiday Weekends: Neither the national park nor the state parks issue permits during major holiday weekends due to crowding.
• Use the Pre-Approved Locations: It’s much simpler to stick with pre-approved locations, but if you’ve got a spot in mind outside of those, just expect a bit more time for the review and approval process.

Redwood National Park Elopement Activities

One of the best things about eloping in the Redwoods is the adventure. After your ceremony, you can explore the park by hiking, biking, or even taking a scenic drive along the Newton B. Drury Parkway. If you love the ocean, head to the coast and check out the tide pools at Enderts Beach. Here’s a fun list of other things you can do during your elopement:

• Watching Roosevelt elk at the Elk Meadow Day Use Area
• Visit Fern Canyon
• Go for a scenic drive along Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
• Horseback ride through Redwood National Park
• Enjoy a short hike or multi-day trek in the rugged backcountry
• Ride a bike on Little Bald Hills Trail
• Hire a private chef
• Kayak or SUP the Smith River
• Have a picnic on Gold Bluffs Beach
• Join a ranger-led kayak tour
• Walk along the beach
• Ride a gondola through the forest canopy
• Visit the Lost Coast Brewery

Redwood National Park Vendors

If you’re looking for local vendors to help with your elopement, there are florists, caterers, and hair and makeup artists who work in the nearby towns of Crescent City and Eureka. I can recommend a few vendors with great reviews to make your day as stress-free as possible.

Where to Stay for Your Redwood National Park Elopement

Campgrounds

Hotels/Lodges

Airbnbs

Redwood National and State Parks Elopement Packages

I offer personalized Redwood National and State Parks elopement packages to help you create the best elopement experience.

Experience-motivated elopement packages starting at $5200:

• 4 hours to 1.5 days of adventuring through Redwood National and State Parks
• Personalized location research
• Custom elopement timeline
• Vendor/activity recommendations
• Full-resolution, edited digital images
• Private online gallery with printing rights
• Sneak peeks delivered within one week
• Photographer travel expenses included
• Support with securing your permit(s)

Redwood National Park Elopement Timeline Samples

8-Hour Redwood National Park Elopement Timeline

8:00 AM – Getting Ready

• Begin your day with a relaxed morning, getting ready at your lodging. Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin or camping out, I’ll be there to capture those candid, quiet moments.

9:30 AM – First Look in the Redwoods

• We’ll head to a magical spot in the redwoods for your first look. This is a great chance to take in the moment and enjoy some quiet time together before the ceremony.

10:00 AM – Ceremony in the Redwoods

• Your ceremony can take place at one of the approved ceremony locations (like Crescent Beach Overlook or Lost Man Creek Gate).

10:30 AM – Post-Ceremony Photos on Smith River

• After the ceremony, we’ll explore some beaches along Smith River for portraits. We’ll find those perfect spots for natural, non-posed moments as you walk together along the bank.

11:30 AM – Visit Fern Canyon

• Take a walk through Fern Canyon, one of the most unique spots in the park. This lush canyon is lined with ferns and is a super unique spot for more photos.

12:30 PM – Picnic at Gold Bluffs Beach

• After a morning of adventure, it’s time for a picnic at Gold Bluffs Beach. Whether you pack a lunch or hire a private chef to set up a gourmet beach picnic, this is a perfect time to relax and soak in the scenery.

1:30 PM – Photos at the Beach

• While at Gold Bluffs Beach, we’ll capture some final moments of you two walking along the shore, enjoying the coastal views.

3:00 PM – Wrap-Up

• End the day with a scenic drive back through the park or head back to your lodging to unwind after a day of adventure.

12-Hour Redwood National Park Elopement Timeline

7:00 AM – Getting Ready

• Start your day bright and early! I’ll capture the details of you getting ready—whether it’s in a cozy lodge, a rustic cabin, or a camper van, these moments are part of your story.

8:30 AM – First Look in the Redwoods

• Head into the forest for a quiet first look among the redwoods. This is your time to connect with each other before the ceremony, away from any distractions.

9:00 AM – Scenic Drive along Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

• Before the ceremony, we’ll take a drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, stopping at a few picturesque spots for quick photos and to take in the view.

10:00 AM – Ceremony in the Redwoods

• Have your ceremony in one of the pre-approved sites, like Berry Glen or Crescent Beach Overlook, in a redwood cathedral.

10:30 AM – Post-Ceremony Photos in the Redwoods

• We’ll spend the next hour exploring the park’s redwood groves, taking portraits in various locations to capture both the big moments and the smaller, more intimate ones.

11:30 AM – Visit Elk Meadow to Watch Roosevelt Elk

• Make a stop at Elk Meadow Day Use Area to see Roosevelt elk. This will be a fun, unique stop for photos and a chance to enjoy a quiet moment in nature.

12:30 PM – Lunch Break

• Enjoy lunch either with a packed meal, at a local spot near Crescent City, or hire a private chef for a special meal outdoors.

1:30 PM – Visit Fern Canyon

• After lunch, we’ll visit Fern Canyon, where you can take in the lush greenery and get more photos in this one-of-a-kind location.

3:00 PM – Kayak or SUP on the Smith River

• For an adventurous twist, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the Smith River. If you prefer, you could also hire a guide for a ranger-led tour. This is a perfect way to experience the area’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

5:00 PM – Photos and Picnic on the Beach

• End the day with a relaxed walk along Gold Bluffs Beach, where we’ll capture some sunset and lantern portraits. You can enjoy a picnic dinner while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

7:00 PM – Wrap-Up

• Wrap up your elopement day with a slow drive back through the redwoods. You’ll have experienced the park in all its beauty, from the towering trees to the ocean, and everything in between.

FAQs for Eloping in California’s Redwoods

• Do I need a permit to elope in Redwood National and State Parks?
  Yes, you need a permit to hold your ceremony within the park boundaries.

• What’s the best time of year for a redwood elopement?
  While redwoods are stunning year-round, the best time of year to elope in California’s redwoods is during the spring or fall seasons.

• How do I choose the right spot for my ceremony?
  Consider accessibility, privacy, and the overall feel you want for your day.

• What should I wear for a redwood elopement?
  Comfort is key. Choose attire that allows you to move freely and navigate the natural terrain. You don’t want to wear heels and get stuck in mud or trip over roots. Layers are also important for changing temperatures.

• How can we make our elopement in the redwoods special?
  Personalize your ceremony with meaningful vows, incorporate elements that represent your journey as a couple, and take time to soak in the beauty of the forest. If you’re looking for unique ideas on how to elope with and without guests, find some inspiration in this blog to make your elopement day extra special.

Final Tips for Eloping in Redwood National and State Parks

1. Prepare for any weather: The Redwoods can be unpredictable, so pack layers and bring rain gear just in case.
2. Stay on marked trails: It’s important to protect the natural environment and avoid damaging sensitive areas.
3. Hire a local California photographer (like me!) Not only can I capture your day, but I’ll help you find the best spots and avoid the crowds.

Eloping in Redwood National and State Parks is an unforgettable experience, especially if you love nature and want to keep things low-key. Whether you’re drawn to the redwoods or the coastal views, you’re in for a treat. Let’s make it happen!