Death Valley National Park has some of the most unique desert landscapes in the country. From salt flats and rocky badlands to rolling sand dunes, this place is perfect for couples who want an adventure instead of a traditional wedding. I’ve helped couples plan private, adventure-filled elopements here. I’ve learned all the ins and outs, including when to go, where to elope, what permits you need, and how to handle the extreme weather. This guide will walk you through how to elope in Death Valley National Park, from picking a location to getting a permit and finding the best time of year to go.
Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Death Valley National Park?
- Wedding & Elopement Permits
- Best Locations for Your Death Valley Elopement
- The Best Time of Year to Get Married at Death Valley National Park
- Where to Stay
- Elopement Activity Ideas at DVNP
- Death Valley Elopement Timeline Samples
- Elopement Packages
- Final Tips for Eloping at Death Valley National Park
- Alternatives to Death Valley
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! You can legally elope in Death Valley National Park, but you’ll need a special use permit for your ceremony.
This permit ensures that weddings follow park guidelines and protect the landscape. I’ll go over how to get your permit below.
👉 Want me to help with permits? As your photographer, I can assist in submitting your paperwork!
Death Valley is one of the hottest places on Earth, so timing is everything when planning an elopement here.
Best Months: October – April
✔️ Fall (October–November): Great weather, fewer crowds than winter.
✔️ Winter (December–February): Mild temps, perfect for hiking elopements.
✔️ Spring (March–April): Longer days, possible wildflowers (if it rained).
Worst Months: May – September
❌ Summer is brutal. Temps regularly hit 120°F+, making it dangerous to be outside for long. If you insist on a summer elopement, plan for sunrise or sunset and keep it short.
Pro Tip: The least crowded time to visit is between Thanksgiving and Christmas. If you want privacy, that’s the best window to elope.
Yes, but the number of guests may be limited based on the permit regulations for certain areas. Some locations allow small gatherings, while others are best for just the couple and their photographer.
Some of the most popular spots for elopements include:
Zabriskie Point – Great for sunrise or sunset with wide, open views.
Artist’s Palette – Colorful hills that change with the light.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes – Soft, rolling dunes perfect for adventurous photos.
Badwater Basin – Salt flats with endless horizon views.
Dante’s View – A high-elevation lookout over the entire valley.
Wear light, breathable clothing and avoid dark colors since they absorb heat. If you’re eloping in winter, bring layers since mornings and evenings can be cold. Don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses.
Yes! The closest places to stay inside the park are:
The Ranch at Death Valley – Centrally located and great for sunrise access.
The Inn at Death Valley – A high-end option with a historic vibe.
Furnace Creek Campground – Best for camping under the stars.
If you’re okay with driving, there are more hotels and Airbnbs about 45 minutes to an hour outside the park.
Where is Death Valley National Park?
Death Valley National Park sits in the northern Mojave Desert, right on the California–Nevada border. Covering nearly 3.4 million acres, it’s one of the largest national parks in the U.S. The landscape is a mix of salt flats, rolling sand dunes, rocky badlands, deep valleys, and rugged mountains. It’s a place of extremes—home to the lowest point in North America and some of the hottest temperatures on Earth.
Closest Major Cities/Towns:
Death Valley is remote, but you can reach it from several major cities. The closest and most convenient option is Las Vegas, but there are routes from California cities as well.
- Las Vegas, Nevada: 149 miles (2 hr 20 min drive), the closest major airport and best option for flights, rentals, and supplies.
- Bakersfield, California: 220 miles (3 hr 49 min drive), a central California gateway for those driving from the west.
- Los Angeles, California: 260 miles (4 hr 28 min drive), a major city with extensive flight and rental car options.
- Fresno, California: 328 miles (5 hr 25 min drive), another option for those coming from Northern California.
How to Get to Death Valley National Park
Closest Airports:
Getting to Death Valley means flying into a major airport and then driving into the park. Renting a car is the best option since there’s no public transportation inside the park. Here are the closest airports:
- McCarran International Airport (LAS) in Las Vegas, Nevada: Approximately 2 hours from Death Valley, it offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in Los Angeles, California: About 5 hours from the park, LAX is another major airport that often offers affordable flight deals and prices.
- Ontario International Airport (ONT), Ontario, California: Nearly 4 hours from Death Valley, offering another option with fewer crowds.
- John Wayne Airport (SNA), Orange County, California: Around 5 hours, it’s a convenient option for those looking for a smaller airport. As an Orange County local, SNA is typically the most expensive of this list to fly in and out of.
- Long Beach Airport (LGB), Long Beach, California: Also about 5 hours, provides an alternative with easy access and less congestion than LAX. It’s a small airport that is very easy to navigate. You can also find some great deals for LGB flights.
How to Drive to Death Valley
The drive into Death Valley National Park takes you through remote desert highways, so plan ahead. Fill up on gas before entering the park, as fuel stations inside are limited and expensive. Download offline maps since cell service is spotty.
- From Las Vegas: The fastest route is through Pahrump, NV via NV-160 and CA-190.
- From Los Angeles: Take I-15 N to Baker, then CA-127 N to CA-190.
- From central California: Use CA-190 if coming from the west.
Do You Need a 4×4 for Death Valley?
You don’t need a 4×4 to visit most popular spots like Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin, Artist’s Palette, and the sand dunes—these are all accessible by paved or well-maintained dirt roads.
However, a 4×4 is required for certain backcountry spots like:
- Racetrack Playa (famous for its moving rocks)
- Titus Canyon (a scenic, rugged canyon drive)
Death Valley NPS Wedding & Elopement Permits
Wedding Special Use Permit
If you’re planning an elopement with a ceremony inside Death Valley National Park, you’ll need a special use permit. This applies whether you’re eloping alone or inviting guests. The permit ensures that your ceremony follows park regulations and helps protect the land.
- Permit Fee: $300 (non-refundable)
- Processing Time: 30-60 days (urgent requests aren’t accommodated)
- Where to Apply: DEVA_Permits@nps.gov
The park doesn’t allow last-minute permits, so it’s best to apply at least two months before your elopement. The earlier, the better. Fees may change, so check the Death Valley NPS website for the latest information.
The application process is straightforward, but it does take time. Here’s what to do:
- Download the permit application from the NPS website.
- Fill it out completely, including details like location, time, number of guests, and any items you plan to bring (chairs, rugs, etc.).
- Email your completed application to DEVA_Permits@nps.gov
- The Office of Special Park Uses will review your request and let you know if additional info is needed.
- Once approved, you’ll receive payment instructions (credit card or check).
- Pay the fee, and the park will mail your permit for you to sign.
- Sign and return the permit to Death Valley’s office for final approval.
Additional Fees & Park Monitor Requirements
If your elopement involves guests, chairs, arches, or other setups, you may be required to pay monitoring fees. These cover the cost of an NPS ranger overseeing your ceremony to make sure park rules are followed.
- How much does a park monitor cost?
- The NPS office will decide if a monitor is needed, based on your group size and activities. Fees vary, so it’s best to ask when applying.
- What should you include in your application?
- Be detailed when describing your elopement plans. List the number of people, any decorations, chairs, or other items you’ll bring. The more info you give, the faster your application will be processed.
Insurance Requirements
Some permits require liability insurance, especially for elopements with guests or equipment (chairs, rugs, arches, etc.).
- The park may require a Certificate of General Liability Insurance for $1,000,000.
- This certificate must list the United States of America as an additional insured.
As your photographer, I carry this insurance and can submit it on your behalf as part of your permit application.
Death Valley Entry Fees
There’s a $30 entrance fee per vehicle, which covers unlimited re-entry into the park for 7 days. If you’re bringing multiple cars, each one will need to pay the fee.
For those who visit multiple national parks throughout the year, it might be worth getting the “America the Beautiful” National Park Pass for $80. This pass gives you unlimited access to all U.S. national parks and federal recreation areas for an entire year. You can buy it online or at most national park entrances.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’re eloping in Death Valley and planning to visit places like Yosemite, Joshua Tree, or the Grand Canyon in the same year, this pass will save you money!
Best Locations for Your Death Valley Wedding Ceremony
View my Google Map of popular pinned locations for your Death Valley elopement ceremony.
Use two fingers to explore and move around. Click “View Larger Map” to open up the map on your Google Maps app.
Zabriskie Point
Zabriskie Point sits high above the badlands, giving you a wide-open view of Death Valley. From here, you can see the salt flats in the distance and the Panamint Mountains rising on the horizon.
This spot is incredible at both sunrise and sunset. In the morning, soft light brings out the texture in the ridges below. In the evening, the sun sets behind the mountains, casting golden light over the valley. If you want to avoid crowds, sunrise is the best time to visit.
Artist’s Palette
Artists Palette is a colorful canyon along Artist’s Drive Scenic Loop. The hills here are streaked with red, orange, yellow, blue, pink, and green. The colors come from minerals in the rock, like iron oxides and chlorite.
The best time to visit is late afternoon when the sun hits just right, making the colors pop. There are two main parking areas—one at the start of the canyon with darker tones and another higher up with brighter colors.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want fewer people around, go early in the morning before the loop gets busy.
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes are the most accessible dunes in Death Valley. They’re easy to reach and great for exploring. The best time to visit is sunrise or sunset when the light creates long shadows across the sand.
At night, this is one of the best spots in the park for stargazing. With no city lights around, the sky is packed with stars, and on a clear night, you might even see the Milky Way.
Badwater Basin Salt Flats
Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. The salt flats here stretch for miles, and the ground naturally forms geometric salt polygons, which look unreal up close.
It’s an easy, flat 2-mile roundtrip walk to get to the best views. If you don’t want to walk far, you can still see the salt flats from the parking area, but the farther you go, the better it gets.
💡 Pro Tip: Go at sunrise or sunset when the light is softer. Midday can be blinding with the sun reflecting off the salt.
Dante’s View
Dante’s View sits high above Death Valley, looking down at Badwater Basin and the Panamint Range. It’s one of the best spots for a wide, open view of the valley.
There’s a short 1-mile out-and-back trail if you want to explore beyond the main viewpoint. If you visit during a new moon, this is also a great place to see the Milky Way on a clear night.
Breakfast Canyon
If you’re inviting guests, Breakfast Canyon is the only location in Death Valley that can host larger ceremonies. It’s a fenced-off area, giving you more privacy compared to other locations in the park.
This spot lets you have a gathering without worrying about crowds, making it a good option if you want a more traditional setup while still being surrounded by the desert landscape.
Hidden Locations
One of the best things about Death Valley is how huge and remote it is. If you want a completely private elopement, it’s not hard to find a spot where you won’t see another person for miles. There are plenty of lesser-known locations that are perfect for saying your vows away from the crowds.
As an adventure elopement photographer, part of my job is finding those hidden spots that most people don’t know about. Whether you want a tucked-away canyon, an epic rock formation, or a quiet desert landscape, I’ll help you find the right place.
📍 Want a custom list of private elopement locations? Let’s chat! I’ll help you pick a spot that feels right for you and make sure your elopement is exactly what you’re looking for. Contact me here.
The Best Time of Year to Get Married at Death Valley National Park
Weather
The best time to get married in Death Valley is fall, winter, or spring, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. This park is called the “Land of Extremes” for a reason—summers can reach over 120°F, making it one of the hottest places on Earth.
If you’re thinking about a summer elopement, be prepared for intense heat. Sunrise or sunset is your best bet, but even then, it can still be over 100°F. For my safety, and my couples, I don’t photography elopements in Death Valley during the summer.
Here’s a seasonal breakdown to help you decide when to elope:
Winter (December to February):
✔ Best time for comfortable weather
✔ Daytime temps are mild, perfect for hiking and exploring
⚠ Nights can be cold, so bring layers if you’re planning sunrise or sunset photos.
⚠ Moderate crowds—this is one of the most popular times to visit, especially at Badwater Basin and Zabriskie Point.
Best for: Couples who want cool, comfortable weather and don’t mind a few more visitors in the park.
40°F to 75°F
Spring (March to May):
✔ Possibility of wildflowers if there’s been rain
✔ Longer days and great lighting for photos
⚠ Temps rise quickly in late April and May, making midday uncomfortable.
⚠ This is the busiest time—expect lots of tourists, especially in March.
Best for: Couples who want blooming flowers, warmer weather, and longer days, but can plan around the crowds.
55°F to 100°F
Summer (June to September):
✔ Lowest crowds—you’ll have most places to yourself
⚠ Extreme heat—temperatures regularly go over 110°F-120°F.
⚠ Midday photos aren’t safe—stick to sunrise or sunset only.
⚠ Bring extra water and avoid long hikes.
80°F to 120°F
Fall (October to November):
✔ Temperatures start cooling down in October.
✔ Similar to spring, but with fewer crowds.
⚠ Early October can still be hot, especially in lower elevations.
Best for: Couples who want mild weather but don’t mind slightly warmer days in early fall.
55°F to 85°F
Crowds in Death Valley National Park
If you want fewer people around, the best time to visit is between Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is when the park is at its quietest, making it easier to find secluded spots for an elopement.
The busiest times in the park are:
- Christmas to New Year’s – One of the most crowded weeks of the year.
- MLK Day weekend (January) – Expect a lot more visitors.
- Presidents’ Day weekend (February) – Another peak time for tourists.
Where to Stay Near Death Valley National Park
There aren’t many lodging options inside Death Valley, but there are a few hotels and campgrounds available. If you’re looking for an Airbnb or vacation rental, be prepared to stay at least 45 minutes outside the park.
For camping on private land, HipCamp is a great resource to find unique spots nearby.
Here are some official hotels and campgrounds inside the park:
Campgrounds:
Furnace Creek Campground (Inside DVNP)
Airbnbs:
If you are looking to stay outside of the park, there’s lodging in the towns of Beatty and Pahrump, Nevada. There’s also accommodations available in Lone Pine, Ridgecrest, and Bishop California, on the east side of the park.
Secluded Mojave Desert Eco-Pods
Death Valley Elopement Activity Ideas
- Sand board at Mesquite Flats Sand Dunes– Slide down the dunes for a fun, post-ceremony adventure.
- Take a scenic drive on Artist’s Drive– A winding road with colorful hills and plenty of pullouts for photos.
- Stargaze and catch the Milky Way– Death Valley is one of the best places in the world for night skies.
- Rent a bike and explore the park on two wheels– A unique way to experience the open desert roads.
- Camp out and grill burgers under the stars– If you’re staying overnight, this is the perfect way to end the day.
- Have your first dance under the full moon on the salt flats– No music needed, just the quiet of the desert.
- Hike around Ubehebe Crater– A massive volcanic crater with rugged, otherworldly terrain.
- Walk under Natural Bridge– A short hike to a unique rock formation carved by time.
- Book a guided jeep tour– Let a local guide take you to some of the park’s lesser-known spots.
- Off-road through Death Valley’s backcountry– If you have a 4×4, this is the best way to explore beyond the main roads.
- Drive the “Park to Park in the Dark” route – One of the best stargazing road trips in the U.S.
Death Valley Elopement Timeline Samples
8-HR Private Elopement Timeline (without guests)
12:00 – 1:15 Get ready at Desert Gold Airbnb in Beatty, NV
1:15 – 1:45 Exchange first looks
1:45 – 2:30 Drive to Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes
2:30 – 3:30 Explore the sand dunes
3:30 – 4:00 Drive to Artist’s Palette
4:00 – 4:30 Ceremony and enjoy a Leave No Trace – approved sparkling water toast
4:30 – 6:00 Explore the area and capture wedding portraits
6:00 – 6:30 Drive to Badwater Basin Salt Flats
6:30 – 8:00 Enjoy a first dance, take moody lantern photos, and read letters from family
8-HR Intimate Elopement Timeline (with up to 15 guests)
12:00 – 1:30 Get ready at The Ranch At Death Valley with guests
1:30 – 2:00 Exchange first looks
2:00 – 2:10 Drive to Breakfast Canyon with guests
2:10 – 2:30 Find a beautiful ceremony area
2:30 – 3:00 Ceremony
3:00 – 3:30 Portraits with guests
3:30 – 4:00 Drive to Artist’s Palette for wedding portraits and vow exchange
4:00 – 4:30 Private vow exchange
4:30 – 6:00 Explore the landscape and capture wedding portraits
6:00 – 6:30 Return to The Ranch to meet with guests
6:30 – 8:00 Enjoy a private dinner at The Oasis At Death Valley
Death Valley Elopement Packages
I offer custom Death Valley elopement packages designed for couples who want more than just a quick ceremony—this is about adventure, exploring, and making memories in one of the most unique landscapes in the world.
Experience-motivated elopement packages starting at $5,500:
- 6 hours to 1.5 days of adventure + photography coverage
- Personalized location research to find the best spot for your vows
- Custom elopement timeline so everything flows smoothly
- Vendor & activity recommendations to enhance your experience
- Full-resolution, professionally edited images
- Private online gallery with printing rights
- Sneak peeks within one week so you don’t have to wait months to see your photos
- All photographer travel expenses included—no hidden fees
- Help with securing your permit so you don’t have to stress about paperwork
If you want an elopement that feels true to you, whether it’s hiking, off-roading, stargazing, or just soaking in the quiet desert, I’ll help you plan an experience you’ll never forget.
Final Tips for Eloping at Death Valley National Park
- Wear sunscreen. Seriously. The desert sun is no joke.
- Download offline maps. There’s no cell service in most of the park, so don’t rely on Google Maps.
- Fill up on gas before entering. There are only three gas stations in the entire park, and prices are way higher than normal.
- Bring more water than you think you’ll need. Then pack extra. The dry heat sneaks up fast.
- Stick to designated roads. Off-roading in restricted areas damages the land and could get you fined.
- Check your spare tire. Make sure it’s in good shape, and have a jack and jumper cables just in case.
- Watch where you put your hands. Scorpions, snakes, and spiders like to hide in cracks and under rocks.
Death Valley is an amazing place to elope, but it’s also a remote desert with extreme conditions. A little planning goes a long way in making sure your experience is smooth and stress-free.
Alternatives to Death Valley
If Death Valley isn’t quite the right fit, there are plenty of other incredible desert locations in California that might be exactly what you’re looking for.
1. Joshua Tree National Park
🌵 Best for: Unique rock formations, Joshua trees, and easy access to stylish Airbnbs.
- This park has plenty of accessible ceremony spots and a cool desert vibe.
- The nearby town has a laid-back, artsy feel with fun local spots to explore.
- Sunsets here are incredible, especially against the boulders.
2. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
🌸 Best for: Secluded desert scenery, slot canyons, and spring wildflowers.
- California’s largest state park with tons of private spots for a ceremony.
- If you visit in March or April, you might see a superbloom of wildflowers.
- Offers a mix of desert, palm oases, and rocky canyons all in one place.
3. Mojave National Preserve
🏜️ Best for: Remote landscapes, sand dunes, and Joshua trees without the crowds.
- Kelso Dunes are a hidden gem, perfect for an elopement without distractions.
- You’ll find volcanic cinder cones, open desert, and rolling sand dunes.
- Way less crowded than Joshua Tree or Death Valley.
4. Alabama Hills
⛰️ Best for: Epic rock formations with mountain views.
- Located near Lone Pine, Alabama Hills is known for its movie-like landscapes.
- It has arches, rugged rock formations, and panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada.
- If you want a desert elopement with mountains in the background, this is the place.
Looking for the perfect elopement spot? Whether you choose Death Valley or another California desert, I’ll help you find the best location and capture every moment. Let’s start planning-contact me here.
I’m Karen, a Southern California Elopement Photographer who empowers couples to create memories that will last a lifetime. I am dedicated to providing the tools you need to create an unforgettable experience.
I help couples by providing personalized location lists, planning resources, vendor recommendations, permits, timeline-curation, and much more to curate elopement days that will be cherished forever.
Your Southern California Elopement Photographer, planning expert, and adventure pal.
I'm here to empower you to create memories that will last a lifetime.
About Karen
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