How to Elope in Death Valley National Park

In the words of Derek Zoolander, Death Valley elopements are “so hot right now”. Death Valley National Park is known as one of the hottest places on earth; it’s become a popular and incredibly epic elopement destination for several reasons.

From sand dunes to salt flats, geologically diverse landscapes that make you feel like you’re on Mars, to the most iconic desert vibes around – Death Valley National Park is the perfect elopement destination for couples looking for an otherworldly experience on their big day. 

Before you tie the knot amongst the sublime desert scenery, you need to know how to elope in Death Valley National Park. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Here’s what you’ll find in this Death Valley National Park elopement guide:

• Best time of year to elope in Death Valley 
• Death Valley  Wedding Permits and Marriage Licenses 
• Places to Stay Near Death Valley
• Death Valley Elopement Packages 

The Best Time of year to Elope in Death Valley 

As I mentioned above, Death Valley is one of the hottest places on earth; from May to October, the average daytime temperature is just over 115°F! For this reason, I would recommend eloping in the winter, late fall, or early spring.

Death Valley Wedding Permits and Marriage Licenses

DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK WEDDING PERMIT

A special use permit is required for weddings and elopement ceremonies to get married in Death Valley National Park.  All you need to do is fill out the application and pay the $300 fee, which will secure your date and your elopement location inside the park.

DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK MARRIAGE LICENSE 

To legally get married during your Death Valley National Park elopement, you will need to obtain a marriage license from your county clerk-recorder’s office. You can request yours online or in person, depending on your location.

Another essential requirement for your wedding ceremony at Death Valley National park is for you and all guests who join you to purchase an entrance pass to enter the park. The entry fee is $30 and is a small price to support this phenomenal place. 

Similarly, it’s essential that we follow the principles of leave no trace (LNT) when visiting public lands. Be mindful of these beautiful places and pick up after yourselves. Let’s all do our part, stay on the trail, and respect the lands we are visiting.

Places to Stay Near Death Valley

INSIDE THE PARK 

As you start planning your Death Valley elopement adventure, one thing you’ll want to think about is where you will stay.  According to Death Valley NPS website, there are 9 National Park Service Campgrounds, plus 3 private campgrounds within Death Valley to choose from. These spots are perfect for camping or RV’ing and would be an ideal spot to get ready for your big day. 

Death Valley National Park is the largest national park outside of Alaska. However, if you want to stay inside the park, there are only a handful of hotels to choose from. The hotel rooms sell out quickly during peak season. For this reason,I would suggest reserving one far in advance.

OUTSIDE THE PARK 

There are some unique Airbnbs around, unfortunately they are on the Nevada side of the park. If you don’t mind having to leave the park every day or driving 1-2 hours from the entrance, this is an excellent lodging option! 

Death Valley Elopement Packages 

One of the best investments you can make for your elopement day is to hire an experienced elopement photographer who can capture your epic day and be your hype man as you navigate this new adventure! 

As your Death Valley elopement photographer, my job is to help you with every part of your elopement journey. This is why I offer location and vendor recommendations and suggest places to stay and things to do. As well as help you obtain permits and create custom timelines. So, in addition to capturing all the moments, you’ll cherish for the rest of your life, you can consider me your planning assistant, right-hand man (and soon-to-be best friend). 

Do you want to get to know your Death Valley elopement photographer better, and find out why I want you to have the best experience on your day?

Get to know more about me here!

I know how many details go into planning the best day of your life. For this reason, you don’t need to have any details set in stone before reaching out about your elopement. Helping you figure this out is what I’m here for! Contact me, and we’ll start dreaming up your day.

As a Death Valley elopement photographer, I’m all about making your experience as easy and stress-free as possible! My Death Valley elopement package includes everything you need to plan your day, beginning to end.

Death Valley elopement package starts at $5000, and here’s what is included:

• Unlimited planning assistance and consultations
• Location recommendations
• Vendor recommendations
• Places to stay and things to do
• A custom elopement timeline
• 4+ hours of elopement photography coverage

Ready to start planning your Death Valley elopement Adventure? Contact me!