If you're envisioning an elopement that's adventurous, intimate, and surrounded by stunning natural scenery, Joshua Tree National Park might just be the perfect place for you! From its unique rock formations to its breathtaking sunsets, this desert park offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for a truly magical day.
Planning an elopement in a national park can seem daunting, especially if you're not familiar with the area. As a Joshua Tree elopement photographer, I’m here to help you every step of the way! I know the best places to elope in Joshua Tree National Park, what type of weather to expect, and all sorts of ideas to make your elopement truly yours!
Here are my top tips to ensure your Joshua Tree elopement is everything you've imagined and more!
Choose the Perfect Location
The best places to elope in Joshua Tree National Park
The first step in planning your Joshua Tree elopement is choosing the perfect location. The park has a variety of stunning spots for your ceremony and photos, featuring hidden coves, towering boulders, and, of course, plenty of iconic Joshua trees. Consider what kind of scenery you want as your backdrop and consider how many guests (if any) will be attending. Joshua Tree National Park does have special requirements and limitations for each location. See below for more details.
Joshua Tree National Park Elopement Locations + Rules
Indian Cove Amphitheater
No more than 100 people total and only 1 vehicle. You must hire a shuttle for your guest to this location. The park does not provide transportation. Location not available June 1-August 31.
Hidden Valley Picnic Area
No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Turkey Flats
No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Cap Rock
No more than 25 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Rattlesnake Picnic Area
No more than 20 people and 8 vehicles.
Quail Springs Picnic Area
No more than 15 people and 8 vehicles.
Split Rock
No more than 15 people and 5 vehicles.
Porcupine Wash
No more than 12 people and 4 vehicles.
Queen Valley Mine Intersection
No more than 10 people and 5 vehicles.
Lost Horse Parking Lot
No more than 10 people and 5 vehicles.
Live Oak Picnic Area
No more than 5 people and 3 vehicles.
Plan for the Weather
The best time of year to elope in Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree is a desert park, which means temperatures can vary greatly depending on the time of year! It's important to plan for the weather and dress accordingly. Consider packing a jacket or wrap for cooler evenings, and always bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Overall, the best time to elope in Joshua Tree is the spring or fall. Review the pros and cons of each season below!
- Spring and Fall: You'll get the best temperatures overall. However, good weather attracts more people especially on the weekends and holidays. Nevertheless, the park is large so you can find a spot to avoid the crowds.
- Winter: There are still many visitors, but the daytime temps are easier to bear. Keep in mind that the sun will set earlier in the winter. Don’t stay out too late, as freezing temps are common. You may even experience a rare snowstorm (yes, it does snow in the desert!).
- Summer: It gets HOT in the summer. It’s the desert, after all. Temperatures in July and August easily reach 100+ degrees. But, the heat means fewer people, longer days, and stunning views of the Milky Way. Sunset and sunrise are the best time for ceremonies to avoid the extreme heat.
Consider the Time of Day
The best time of day to take photos in Joshua Tree
The time of day can greatly impact the look and feel of your elopement photos. The best time to shoot is typically during golden hour, which is the hour before sunset or the hour after sunrise. This time of day offers soft, warm light that's ideal for photos.
Decide on Decor + Extra Items
What you can and cannot bring with you to elope in Joshua Tree National Park
The eco system of the desert is important and protected. As a result, there are certain items that are not permitted to be used in the national park
Items that are permitted
- Arch (must be free-standing and is not permitted to be placed into the ground)
- Small table
- Cooler with water
- Live or fake flowers only
- Battery-powered candles
- Small runner and/or rug
- Cake
- Champagne
Prohibited Items + Activities
- The use of amplified music, microphones, or speakers
- The release/dispersal of living or inanimate objects (e.g. butterflies, bird seed, rice, or flower petals)
- Unattended food items
- Decorations (e.g. balloons, ribbons, directional signage)
- The use of furniture at the ceremony site (consideration is given to those with special needs)
- Restricting visitor use or blocking the flow of traffic
- Pets are not allowed on trails, or paths. If you plan on having a pet at the ceremony this will need to be approved by the Special Park Uses Office.
- Drones
- All dried flowers (e.g. Pampas Grass and other dried florals)
- Non-battery powered candles
- Bubbles
- Smoke Bombs
- Sparklers and Fireworks
Obtain Your Permit ASAP
Secure your permit to elope in Joshua Tree National Park
Once you have decided on your elopement location and time of year, it is extremely important to obtain the permit as soon as possible! Joshua Tree National Park is a popular elopement destination so permit locations and dates can fill up fast. The process of obtaining a permit is fairly simple.
Head over to the National Parks website to complete their Special Use Permit Application. A $120 non-refundable application fee is required. The Special Park Uses Office will send you instructions on how to make your payment online once they have received your application. Applications may take up to 15 business days to review depending on the time of year.
Important Note: If you want any of the items mentioned in the section above at your ceremony, please make sure they are listed on your application for consideration. If there are none listed when they receive your application, you will not be permitted to add them later.
Obtain Your Marriage License (or don't...)
Is a marriage license required to elope in Joshua Tree National Park?
While the National Park Service does not require that a marriage license has been obtained for a wedding ceremony to take place within the park; if you want your marriage to be legal, be sure to go through the proper channels for your marriage license.
If you’re traveling to Joshua Tree for your elopement, it’s often easier to do the paperwork at home. This is especially true for couples coming from abroad. You can have a legal ceremony at your local courthouse (or in the U.S., go to a notary public to sign paperwork without a ceremony). Don’t worry – the elopement won’t be any less special! Paperwork isn’t what makes your love real. With this route, you can fully enjoy the adventure of your day! You can relax, exchange vows, and have your dream ceremony in the desert with less hassle.
To obtain a marriage license in California
If you want your ceremony in the national park to be fully legal, your marriage license needs to be from the state of California. To obtain a California marriage license, you can go to any county clerk’s office in the state! The office closest to Joshua Tree National Park is the San Bernardino County office. You can fill out your marriage license application online, and you’ll each need to provide ID. The marriage license fee in San Bernardino County is $89, but may vary if you apply at a different office. After your application is complete, you’ll need to make an appointment (either in person or online) to review your application and receive the marriage license.
On the day of your elopement, you’ll need an officiant and one witness to sign your license. After the signed marriage license is returned, you’re married!
Make it Personal
Your elopement is all about you + your partner
This day is all about the two of you, so make it personal! Write your own vows, incorporate meaningful details or traditions, or choose a spot in the park that has significance to you both. It is your elopement, so make it as unique and special as you are.
Hire a Photographer to Capture the Day
Your elopement deserves to be documented
You've taken the time to plan such a special day. Be sure to hire a photographer to capture it all. You'll want to look back on your elopement for years to come! If you're looking for a local photographer, I'd love to be considered! I can provide guidance on ceremony location, where to say, what to eat, and more. Reach out here to get started!
Eloping in Joshua Tree National Park may seem overwhelming at first, but with a little research and help from someone who knows the process, it's beyond worth it! If you're in for stunning views and an adventure, Joshua Tree is the perfect place to start your new life together!
