Planning to elope in Joshua Tree National Park? YAY, I’m sooo excited for you! With its iconic Joshua trees, stunning rock formations and endless desert landscapes, it really is such a dreamy destination for an elopement day.
As a Joshua Tree elopement photographer, I’m here to guide you through everything you need to know to make your Joshua Tree elopement unforgettable. From the best locations and permits to costs and fun activities, I’ve got you covered. Let’s dive right in!
Table of Contents
- Why Elope in Joshua Tree
- Best Time for Your Joshua Tree Elopement
- Best Joshua Tree Wedding Locations
- How to Legally Elope in Joshua Tree
- Where to Stay
- Fun Joshua Tree Elopement Activities
- Joshua Tree Wedding Cost
- Joshua Tree Elopement Packages
Why Elope in Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree is for you if you’re dreaming of an elopement day that is equal parts epic and laid-back with cool, boho desert vibes. Think quirky Joshua trees, wide-open desert landscapes, and some of the most incredible rock formations you’ll ever see. Add in those dreamy golden-hour sunsets and crystal-clear night skies, and you’ve got the perfect backdrop for a wildly romantic, stress-free wedding day.
Best Time for Your Joshua Tree Elopement
While technically, you can get married in Joshua Tree all throughout the year, I’d say some seasons are definitely better than others. The desert weather can be unpredictable and even unbearable, so finding the right season for your vibe and comfort is really important.
Spring
Spring is one of the absolute best times to elope here! The weather is warm but not unbearable, usually ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s during the day and cooling off at night. Plus, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to see wildflowers and even cacti blooming.
Spring is a popular visitor season, so to avoid crowds as much as possible, I recommend choosing a sunrise or weekday elopement (or, even better, sunrise on a weekday)!
Summer
Honestly, summer in Joshua Tree is not for the faint of heart. Temperatures easily climb above 100°F, making midday ceremonies pretty much unbearable. But if you’re willing to plan around the heat, a sunrise or sunset elopement can still be magical. The benefits of getting married here in summer are the lesser crowds and absolutely unreal Milky Way views at nighttime.
If you choose summer, bring plenty of water and SPF and dress appropriately. You should also wear light, breathable fabrics!
Fall
Fall is another great option for eloping here, especially in October and early November. The temperatures are hovering in the 70s and 80s during the day and cooling down at night. The golden desert tones during sunset? Absolutely stunning!
However, same as spring, fall is a popular visitor season, so you should plan for a weekday or sunrise elopement.
Winter
Winter in Joshua Tree is lovely. With daytime temps in the 50s-60s and cold desert nights, it’s a peaceful and intimate time to say your vows. There are still people around, but less than in peak seasons. It can get really cold in the late evenings and nighttime, though (think 30s or lower), so bring layers!
Best Joshua Tree Wedding Locations
Joshua Tree National Park has designated specific areas for wedding ceremonies, each with its own capacity and charm.
Indian Cove Amphitheater
Capacity: No more than 100 people total and only 1 vehicle. You’d need to rent a shuttle for your guests if you’re planning to bring more people than yourselves and your photographer.
Surrounded by towering rock formations, Indian Cove Amphitheater feels secluded and magical, with a natural “stage” vibe that’s great for bigger ceremonies. Heads up, though: it’s closed during the summer months (June 1–August 31), so plan accordingly!
Hidden Valley Picnic Area
Capacity: No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Hidden Valley is all about cozy vibes and jaw-dropping backdrops. Massive boulders, desert plants, and a tucked-away feel make it super private. The sunset here is unbeatable, with the rocks looking like they literally glow in the golden light. It’s a total dream!
Turkey Flats
Capacity: No more than 35 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
If you’re after open desert vibes, you’ll like Turkey Flats. Picture a blank canvas with panoramic views, iconic Joshua trees, and endless skies. It’s perfect if you’re dreaming of a vast, airy backdrop with all those desert feels.
Cap Rock
Capacity: No more than 25 people total and up to 8 vehicles.
Cap Rock is known for its crazy-cool boulders (hello, photo ops!) and beautiful Joshua trees scattered throughout. It’s easy to get to, and with so many scenic spots, you’re bound to get some epic shots of your day.
Quail Springs Picnic Area
Capacity: No more than 15 people and 8 vehicles.
If you’re looking for something simple and accessible, Quail Springs is a great choice. The nearby boulders and Joshua trees are stunning, and the soft morning light at sunrise? Pure magic.
Outside of these areas, you’re also allowed to get married at Split Rock, Porcupine Wash, Queen Valley Mine Intersection, Lost Horse Parking Lot, and Live Oak Picnic Area.
Getting Your Joshua Tree Elopement Permit
According to the National Park Service website, Joshua Tree National Park doesn’t allow exclusive use of any area, and normal visitor activity will continue even during your ceremony. Weddings are permitted for a maximum of 2 hours, which includes setup, guest arrival, ceremony, photos, departure, and cleanup—so plan accordingly. Of course, your elopement day doesn’t have to end then and there. We can still move on to other areas and take your photos as we go along, or get into a vintage car and head somewhere nice to continue your celebrations!
This is how to get your Joshua Tree elopement permit:
- Submit a Special Use Permit Application at least 15 days prior to your desired date. Applications are accepted up to 12 months in advance. The park only allows one permitted event at a time per location, so early reservations are highly recommended.
- A non-refundable application fee of $120 is required. Once your application is received, the park will provide instructions on how to make the payment online.
- The use of decorations, amplified music, live animals, and certain props is prohibited to protect the park’s natural environment. Always adhere to Leave No Trace principles!
How to Legally Elope in Joshua Tree
In order to make your marriage official, you’ll need to get a California marriage license from any county clerk’s office in the state. Joshua Tree National Park is located within Riverside County and San Bernardino County, so these should be the most convenient for getting your license.
Once you have your license, you can marry immediately. You’ll also need an officiant and one witness to sign the marriage license. As your Joshua Tree elopement photographer, I’d be happy to sign as a witness!
Of course, as I mentioned previously, you must get the Park’s special use permit for your ceremony.
Where to Stay
There aren’t a ton of hotels near Joshua Tree, but that’s okay because there are plenty of amazing Airbnbs and vacation rentals in the area and Yucca Valley, as well.
Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree itself is tiny—think one-stoplight kind of town—but it’s got a few great Airbnbs, coffee shops, and quirky boutiques. If you want to wake up minutes from the park, this is your best bet.
Camping in Joshua Tree
Joshua Tree offers several stunning campgrounds, from easily accessible sites to remote, off-the-grid spots. Popular campgrounds include Hidden Valley, Jumbo Rocks, and White Tank. Reservations fill up quickly, so book early! For more information on camping, visit the National Park Service’s website!
Yucca Valley
Yucca Valley is a bit bigger and has more places to stay, plus a few solid restaurants and grocery stores. It’s about 10-15 minutes from the Joshua Tree Park entrance, making it a great spot to set up your elopement home base.
Fun Joshua Tree Elopement Activities
There are so many fun things to do in Joshua Tree or the surrounding area to make your day unique and personal.
- Visit the Palm Springs Windmills: Located about a 40-minute drive from Joshua Tree, the iconic wind farms near Palm Springs offer a stunning backdrop for post-elopement photos.
- Explore the Joshua Tree National Park Trails
- Stargazing: Joshua Tree is a designated Dark Sky Park, making it one of the best places in the U.S. for stargazing.
- Visit Pioneertown: A fun Old West-style town where you can walk around film-set-style buildings and grab a bite at Pappy & Harriet’s.
- Take a Sound Bath at the Integratron
These are only some of my suggestions. As your elopement photographer and planning bestie, I’ll help you find the perfect activities to help you tell your story.
Joshua Tree Wedding Cost
Your Joshua Tree wedding experience cost will vary greatly depending on the experience you want. At a minimum, you’ll need to account for the $120 special use permit required by the National Park Service.
Additional costs may include travel and lodging, an officiant, a photographer, florals, attire, and any extra rentals for a picnic or small celebration.
On average, I’d say your Joshua Tree elopement cost could range from $2,000 to over $10,000, depending on your chosen vendors, accommodations, and decor. If you’re keeping it simple with just you, your partner, and a photographer, you could spend significantly less. But if you want a full-day experience with a videographer, decor, and post-ceremony dinner, costs will be on the higher end.
Joshua Tree Elopement Packages
As your Joshua Tree elopement photographer, I’m here to help with all the planning! From securing permits to logistics, I’ve got you covered. My happy place is taking care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your unforgettable Joshua Tree elopement. Let’s make your dream day stress-free and absolutely stunning!
Check out my Joshua Tree elopement packages! When you’re ready, reach out to me here, and let’s plan your big day together!
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Joshua Tree Elopement Vendors:
HMUA: Callie Allen Makeup
