Overnight Camping Elopement in the Mojave Desert

The Mojave Desert offers some of the most unique and diverse landscapes in California. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an adventurous and intimate elopement. From dormant volcanoes to lava flows, Joshua Trees, and even sand dunes, this spot has it all. S and N celebrated their love with a two-day Mojave Desert elopement on Earth Day. Let me share how their unforgettable adventure unfolded!

Why Choose a Mojave Desert Elopement?

The Mojave National Preserve is perfect if you’re after seclusion and variety. It’s not crowded like some of the more well-known desert destinations. You’ll feel like you’ve got the place to yourselves. The landscapes here are so diverse—you’ll find dormant volcanoes and pitch-black lava fields you can climb on. There are also funky Joshua Trees and yucca plants that add a unique vibe to the scenery. For something extra fun, you can even go sandboarding at Kelso Dunes.

Day 1: Finding the Perfect Campsite

One of the best parts of this elopement was the off-roading adventure. We navigated sandy trails to find a secluded campsite. This wasn’t just any campsite—it felt like a hidden gem waiting just for them. It was a small alcove surrounded by towering black lava rocks dotted with blooming wildflowers. It was secluded, peaceful, and had plenty of space to set up camp.

We started the day with a simple camp breakfast. We shared coffee and laughed about how much easier it was to plan a camping elopement than a big wedding. S and N got ready in their tent—a moment that felt casual and personal.

Pro Tip: Plan Ahead

Camping in the desert means packing smart. Bring plenty of water, layers for the cool nights, and a sturdy tent. If you’re planning an elopement, look for a campsite that’s a little off the beaten path for privacy. I recommend using maps, like the Dyrt, to scout locations ahead of time.

Exploring the Lava Tubes and Dormant Volcanoes

After setting up camp and getting ready, we drove to the nearby dormant volcanoes and one of the coolest spots in the Preserve—the Lava Tubes. With headlamps lighting our way, we climbed down into the cavern of the tubes. There’s this incredible spot where the sunlight streams through a small cutout above. It creates a natural spotlight in the dark cave. We had the idea to toss dirt into the air, and it turned out to be one of the best photo moments of the day. The dirt caught the light, creating a hazy, almost magical effect around them. It’s those spontaneous, creative ideas that make elopements so special.

We then explored over to the nearby lava fields and captured moments with dormant volcanoes in the background. You really couldn’t guess we were still in California! S and N had the entire field to themselves. After some portraits, we headed back to camp to prepare for their ceremony.

Sunset Vows Above the Lava Rocks

As the sun was getting ready to set, we climbed up the lava rocks at camp for their vow exchange. The desert was bursting up there with orange wildflowers in full bloom, and the sunset light made the colors even more vivid. S and N stood together in an open spot surrounded by flowers. They looked like they belonged right there in the middle of it all. After their ceremony, we climbed back down to camp where S and N heated up some gourmet Top Ramen meals around a campfire.

Ready to Plan Your Elopement in the Mojave Desert?

If you’re dreaming of an adventurous Mojave Desert Elopement, I’d love to help you plan it. From finding the perfect campsite to capturing every moment, I’ll be there to make sure your elopement feels authentic and stress-free.

Check out my California Elopement Packages to get started. You can also read more about other unique elopement locations in my blog.

For more tips on camping in the Mojave Desert, visit NPS’s official page.

Let’s make your elopement unforgettable! Contact me here to start planning your Mojave Desert adventure.