How To Elope In Joshua Tree National Park
There isn’t a desert location quite like Joshua Tree National Park. Known for the staggering rock formations and the infamous, abundant Joshua Trees — it is a geometric heaven. This park is also incredible for stargazing at night, as the sky is some of the clearest in the United States. The meeting point of the Mojave and Colorado desert has all the ingredients for an extra-memorable wedding day.
Of course, if you’re considering eloping in Joshua Tree National Park, you’ll want to know everything from the best locations, the practical steps, and a few insider tips sprinkled in for good measure. I’ve written this guide to support people like you, so let’s get started.
How To Get To Joshua Tree
By Plane:
The best way to get to Joshua Tree National Park would be to fly into the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). Both airports are located about 3 hours away. You can also fly into the Palm Springs International Airport (PSP), as it is the closest airport. However, this airport is a much smaller airport with fewer flights and higher rates. John Wayne Airport, Orange County (SNA) is a fantastic alternative to LAX to avoid all the traffic. It’s only 2.5 hours from Joshua Tree and airfare rates are still pretty affordable!
By Car:
No matter which airport you choose to fly to, the best way to get around Joshua Tree National Park is by renting a car. Keep in mind that navigation systems around Joshua Tree can often lead you onto soft sand roads which can cause your rental to get stuck. Not ideal. Plan to enter the park directly through Interstate 10 or California Highway 62 (otherwise known as the Twentynine Palms Highway). Look at directions beforehand and be prepared.
Pro Tip: Download offline Google Maps directions on your phone so that even when you lose service as you get closer to the park, you can still receive navigation.
The Best Time of Year To Get Married In Joshua Tree
Spring
The weather is incredible both day and night in the springtime and the wildflowers are in full bloom. However, the spring is also the busiest season Joshua Tree sees, especially Spring Break, with long queues to enter the park. If you choose the spring, I recommend choosing a weekday and having your ceremony around sunrise for the most secluded experience.
Summer
Temperatures in the summer are very hot, reaching over 100 degrees daily in June, July, and August. This makes doing any physical activity outside extremely dangerous, and it’s likely not the weather for wedding dresses or sharp-looking tuxedos! Although understandably quiet, I still wouldn't recommend this during summer due to the heat and lack of cell service should you need support.
Fall
My absolute favorite time for elopements in Joshua Tree is the fall. There are minimal tourists, the weather is incredible, still mild but not overwhelming, and the golden light is beautiful. I’d strongly recommend October and November for your wedding! Once your vows are done, you could also attend two of the popular festivals, Joshua Tree Music Festival and Bhakti Fest.
Winter
If you don’t mind cooler climates, the winter is also incredible! If you want an extremely intimate ceremony, the winter is the perfect time as it brings in the least amount of visitors (second to summer time). The temperatures are still consistently in the mid to high 60s during the day, but they do drop significantly after the sun goes down. Still, if you’re an active couple, this means much more freedom to roam the landscape and take in the views.
Best Joshua Tree Elopement Locations
Joshua Tree National Park only allows wedding ceremonies at pre-approved locations. I have listed a handful of my favorite ones below. To view the full list of pre-approved ceremony sites, visit the National Park website.
If you see a location not on that list that you would like to get married at, contact the park directly for more information. If you don’t have any quests at your wedding, there may be an exception.
Max Capacity: 100 people, 1 car
This location is perfect if you plan on having a larger group or if you are looking to have seating (this is the only pre-approved site with seating provided!). You absolutely don’t have to use the seating and can just have a view of the unique rock wall. It’s situated within a bigger campground, too, and you might even spot a desert tortoise, if you’re lucky!
*Location not available June 1 - August 31
Max Capacity: 35 people, 8 cars
Though it’s a picnic area, there are tons of open areas to set up nestled in between Joshua Trees and unique rock formations. This is one of my favorite spots! You have the comfort of grills and specially designed tables, plus accessibility to the Hidden Valley Trail, if you want to stretch your legs. You also gets to enjoy the shade, which is a rarity in the desert.
Max Capacity: 35 people, 8 cars
This minimalist landscape is beautiful in its own unique way. Though it doesn’t have the classic Joshua Tree views, you get the flat, endless landscape that makes you feel tiny. Plus there are some beautiful wildflowers in the spring. The name is said to come from a farmer who once thought it would make a good location for a poultry farm… I think it’s much better suited to elopements!
Max Capacity: 25 people, 8 cars
This is the most popular wedding location in Joshua Tree, for good reason! Most people who choose this spot, choose the infamous giant Joshua Tree, but there are TONS of other open areas with equally beautiful views. I know popularity can sometimes be a turn-off for a day that feels so unique and personal, but this is still a wonderful choice.
Max Capacity: 20 people, 8 cars
This location is so fun with all the geometric shapes the staggering rocks form. It is like a grown-up jungle gym, with endless exploration of all the rocks. It is one of the most unique views in the park. Keep in mind though that the surrounding terrain is challenging to navigate, especially for inexperienced hikers.
Max Capacity: 15 people, 8 cars
This is the very first picnic area you see when you enter the park, so it can get a bit busy, especially with climbers energizing themselves before getting to work. However, the area is absolutely stunning with TONS of Joshua Trees and an array of boulders. It could be the spot for your elopement, or a base to walk toward somewhere more secluded.
Max Capacity: 10 people, 5 cars
The trail here takes you to an old gold mine, a relic from the California Gold Rush era, which is a super unique experience for your special day! Along the way, you’ll also get views of the open fields, boulders, and — of course — tons of Joshua Trees.
How To Get A Joshua Tree Elopement Permit
A “special use permit” is required for all wedding ceremonies held within Joshua Tree National Park. Failure to get the permit will result in a ranger stopping the ceremony and even banning you from the park (yes this really happens), so it is extremely important to get the permit for your elopement in Joshua Tree.
The process of getting a special use permit for Joshua Tree is super simple! To get the special use permit, simply fill out the online application found here and email it to Jeannie_Wilson@nps.gov. Once your application is approved, you’ll receive payment details via email. There is a $120, non-refundable cost, plus potential additional costs depending on your group size and chosen location. Make sure to pack your permit for the day itself!
How To Get A California Marriage License
Understanding California's marriage laws is crucial when planning your elopement. Here are some key points to consider:
Marriage License
You must obtain a marriage license from a California county clerk's office. The license is valid immediately upon issuance and for 90 days.
Waiting Period
There is no waiting period once you obtain your marriage license, allowing you to elope on the same day if you choose. However, I always recommend arriving at your elopement location at least one full day in advance to get settled in and would advise picking up the marriage license beforehand for less stress and timeline purposes for your elopement day.
Officiant
Your ceremony must be conducted by a recognized officiant, such as a minister, priest, rabbi, or judge. Friends or family members can also become Deputy Commissioners of Civil Marriages for a Day through the county clerk's office. I am a recognized officiant in the state of California & offer to sign for my couples in addition to photographing their day if they so choose.
Witnesses
California requires at least one witness, in addition to the officiant, to sign the marriage license.
Just So You Know: I am an ordained officiant and can legally sign on your marriage certificate in most U.S. states. Certain states may require additional paperwork and/or processing fees but I’m happy to help! However, if you would like an actual celebrant to verbally walk you through a ceremony, I know some great people who can do that for you.
Where To Stay For Your Joshua Tree Elopement
Pro Tip: Find an Airbnb/VRBO rental that is event-friendly and host your ceremony there, then head into the park for photos afterwards! So many rentals have kick ass yards featuring the same landscapes, in complete privacy!
Best Airbnbs
Best Hotels
Joshua Tree Elopement Packages
I’m much more than a photographer, I’m someone who is super passionate about supporting couples on their big day, from scouting hidden gems for the ideal location, stress-free planning, and of course capturing raw, authentic moments. As a West Coast photographer specializing in adventure elopements, you’ll be in safe hands. So, are you ready to say yes to Joshua Tree?! More information on my packages below:
Packages
4 hours, 8 hours, 12 hours, or 2 day elopement photography
A personalized elopement planning experience with unlimited assistance
Personalized elopement location recommendation list
Vendor, lodging, and activity recommendations
Custom-built-for-you elopement timeline
Assistance to help you with permits and licenses
90+ page elopement planning guide with my best tips & tricks
Optional complimentary officiant services
Online gallery with full resolution images and printing rights
5-7 day sneak peeks
Travel fees to anywhere in California are already included
Starting at $5000
Video Add-Ons
For an extra special, immersive reminder of your special day, I now offer the following options for video add ons to your elopement packages:
Documentary style highlight reel
Super 8 film
Ceremony recording
BTS iPhone video content
Hey, I’m Sally! I’m a destination adventure elopement photographer based in Washington, but traveling worldwide!
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