How to Plan an Elopement in Texas’s Most Beautiful State Parks <em>Everything you need to know to choose the right Texas State Park, what to expect with costs + permits, and more.</em>
Figuring out where to get married can feel like a lot. Especially when none of the usual options feel right for you. But have you ever thought of eloping in a Texas State Park?
Maybe you’ve walked through a few venues and thought, “Is this it?” White walls, tight timelines, and a price tag that makes you want to lie down. Maybe you’ve already looked into national parks and ended up 20 tabs deep in wedding permits, trail maps, and black bear warnings. Or maybe the idea of eloping sounded good…until it started feeling like just another thing to plan.
And now the courthouse is starting to sound kind of tempting — at least it’s simple. At least it won’t make you cry over napkin choices.
But if there’s a small part of you that’s still holding out not for something that over-the-top, but something that actually feels like you — you’re not asking too much
And you don’t have to hop on a plane or plan a whole production to find that kind of feeling. Some of the most meaningful, grounding, genuinely beautiful places to say your vows are right here in Texas. Texas State Parks offer something different: a quiet space where your day can unfold in a way that feels honest and true to you.
We’ve stood with couples as they read vows beside rivers, on canyon edges, and under trees they picked just because they felt right. No fancy setups. No pressure. Just a space that held them. And if you’re wondering how to find that kind of place for yourself — especially in a Texas State Park. We’ve got you.
This guide walks you through how to choose the right park, what it actually looks like to elope in one, and how to start making it real for the two of you (or whoever you’ve chosen to bring along).
Why should you elope in a Texas State Park?
Texas State Parks are low-key stunning
Texas State Parks have this quiet, wide-open beauty that sneaks up on you. One minute you’re pulling into a dusty parking lot, and the next you’re standing under an old cedar tree just 10 minutes from the trailhead, wondering how it feels this private. A lot of these spots don’t look like much on a map — but once you’re in them, woah, will they take your breath away.
Because you don’t have to hike for miles or fly out to a destination spot to find that kind of underrated beauty. Especially in Texas. It’s all about choosing a place that honors your story and feels like home.
It gives you room to move at your own pace without all the noise.
Texas State Parks don’t come with a packed timeline or pressure to entertain a hundred guests. Just a slow morning at your own pace. Where you can get ready in a little cabin, read your vows by the water, and take a walk through the trees when it’s over. Just the two of you.
Whether you’re under the oaks or out on the rocks, it gives you time to breathe. To actually feel the day instead of rushing through it.
That kind of pace changes everything.
You’re not far from home — but it still feels like a getaway.
One of the best parts about eloping in a Texas State Park is that you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’ve stepped into something special and surprisingly diverse. You’ll find hills, canyons, forests, rivers, lakes, and deserts. And with so many parks just an hour or two from major cities, you get the feeling of an escape without the overwhelm or planning pressure of a big destination trip.
The permit process is simple, in the best way.
There’s not a long list of requirements or restrictions to elope in most Texas State Parks. Permits are usually affordable and straightforward. And with the right help, the whole thing can feel simple and easy. Leaving you free to actually enjoy yourself on the day of.
It’s easy to make your own.
Want a sunrise ceremony and a slow breakfast picnic? A hike to an overlook with your favorite people? A quiet vow exchange followed by some stargazing? There’s no script or templated celebrations here. Just a space to create a day that feels right for you.
It’s affordable without feeling like you’re settling.
Most parks charge just $3–$8 per person for entry. And if you’re inviting a few loved ones or want to reserve a picnic area, there might be a small extra fee, but it’s usually nothing wild. And the payoff? A laid-back, beautiful day that feels easy on your heart — and your wallet.
How to Plan a Texas State Park Elopement: Step-by-Step
1. Get clear on your vision and priorities
Before picking where you want to get married, take a moment together to talk about what actually matters to you. What kind of landscape feels right? Do you want to hike, swim, or stargaze? Will it be just y’all, or are you inviting a few people along? What are your priorities when it comes to your budget and spending? When you start with intention, the rest falls into place a lot easier.
We also have a perfect list of prompts to help walk you through these types of questions together here.
You can also start to think about what kind of vibe you’re looking for: are you dreaming of a sunny waterfall elopement or a relaxing lakeside elopement? And while no one can control the weather, you can think about the type of place you’ll want to be in.
2. Book your Texas State Park photographer and videographer
Hiring a photographer or videographer early on is such a great idea. Especially if you’re having a hard time deciding when or where to elope. They’ll be able to give you their expert advice and best recommendations.
For most couples, the biggest investment is in their photographer and videographer. You don’t need a huge team, but you do want someone who knows how to work in natural spaces (especially state parks). Someone who can help you get your permits, scout out the best locations in the park, and won’t make your day feel like a photoshoot. We’d love to be your team, let’s chat.
3. Choose your park
Texas has so many gems within the state parks. From the rugged desert views of Franklin Mountains to the dreamy vernal pools at Perdenales Falls. Think about how far you’re willing to travel, what season it’ll be, and how private that location can feel. And if you’re planning on inviting a select group of loved ones, you’ll also want to look into any restrictions. The park may have group size limitations and your guests may have mobility restrictions to consider.
Ultimately, you’ll want to choose somewhere that allows you to feel present, alive, and connected with your partner and any invited guests. And as your elopement photo and video duo, we’d love to help you find the perfect park if you’re having a hard time deciding.
4. Choose your date
Now that you have a spot in mind, it’s time to think about when you’ll want to elope. There’s no one answer here. It really all depends on the feeling you’re going for and how you want to spend your day.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing your date for a Texas State Park elopement:
How far in advance you need to apply for your required permits
Crowds + popular travel seasons - Spring and Fall weekends fill up quickly.
Weather conditions - Summer can be very hot, especially midday in most places. And some areas flood and close after storms.
Golden hour light - Sunrise and sunset times shift depending on the season.
Seasonal colors - Wildflowers in the Spring, warm tones in Fall, lush greens after summer rains.
Activities you’ll want to include - Some seasons are better for swimming, hiking, stargazing, or other activities.
Park hours and restrictions - Not all parks allow entry before sunrise or after dark without special permission.
Time of day you want to have your ceremony - Early mornings and late evenings usually have the best light and the most privacy.
Bnb + travel costs - Nearby accommodations can get pricey during peak season.
5. Invite your guests, if you want
Can you bring guests to a Texas State Park elopement? Claro que sí. Whether it’s just the two of you tucked into a quiet overlook. Or a few of your favorite people gathered around while y’all read your vows — this day gets to look and feel however you want it to.
That being said, some parks only allow smaller groups. Every park is different. Others may have limited parking or require a reserved area for your group. Most of the time, group sizes under 10 are totally doable with just a heads up in your permit application and correspondence with the park.
6. Apply for your required permits
Every park will require entrance fees for each person and a Special Event Permit for your elopement, no matter how small or low-key your celebration may be. This helps the park manage public access, protect natural areas, and keep things running smoothly. Some parks may need additional permits for your photographer or videographer, so it’s important to check those details early.
You’ll want to apply for permits at least 4-6 weeks in advance, though we’ve seen some parks ask for more time. Generally, rule of thumb is: the earlier, the better. (We help with this part too.)
Here are some common things you’ll want to pay attention to:
Any restrictions on group size that may be in place
Designated and restricted areas for your ceremony
Any activities, props, or equipment that aren’t allowed
Most of the time, the process looks like this:
You’ll fill out the Special Event application through the TPWD website. Include your desired date and ceremony location. Ceremony and activities length. Information about any decor, props, or equipment you're planning to bring. And lastly, your guest and vehicle count.
Wait for your permit to be approved by the Park Superintendent.
Print out a copy of your approved permit confirmation. Carry it with you on your elopement day, just in case anyone asks.
7. Map out a timeline with all the details that matter (and skip the rest)
Creating a plan for your day is one of our favorite parts of the process. It’s what will guide the flow of the day and allow everything the space to breathe and just be. Having someone with experience plan your timeline makes all the difference. It’s not about jamming everything into a couple of hours. It’s about creating a day that you can fully enjoy yourself in.
Here’s a peek into what an all-day elopement at Enchanted Rock could look like:
You started off with a 4 AM wakeup call in your bnb to get ready together and drive over to the park
You hiked a little, changed shoes at the top, and read your vows in private with your feet touching the cool pink granite while the sun rose.
You explored the top of the dome before all your guests arrived for a beautiful ceremony near a twin rock formation
Your guests witnessed a beautiful ceremony filled with belly laughs and sincerity.
Then you all came back down and grabbed takeout on the way back to the bnb.
We break for the day to avoid the heat.
We meet up in the evening at a local vineyard for dinner, a little Lotería, and a lot of laughter with your family.
It wasn’t dramatic. It was real. And that’s what made it magic.
This is also when you can start planning your activities, booking your travel, and deciding exactly what else you want to include. Things like handwritten vows, a cozy picnic, a sunset paddle, a quiet walk together, or a campfire by the stars. Whether you want to start at sunrise or share tacos by a campfire. This experience should feel like an extension of your relationship, not a performance of it.
8. Make it legal, if you want
To get legally married in Texas, you’ll need to apply for a marriage license from any county clerk’s office. It’s a pretty simple process. Most countries let you apply online and require an in-person visit to pick it up. So just be sure to check the details based on where you’re at. Here’s a more in-depth guide on the marriage laws and license application process in Texas.
9. Take it all in
You did it. You picked a spot that felt right, made it through the planning. Now this is the moment where everything you’ve worked on will come to life. You don’t have to rush through this experience, you should get to live it.
And if you’re someone who wants a few gentle reminders, here’s a guide we put together with ways to slow down and really be there on your wedding day.
Texas’s 20 Most Beautiful State Parks to Get Married In
So you don’t have to keep digging through “best of” lists ever again — here are our favorite parks that are beautiful, easy to get to, and so worth considering.
Franklin Mountains State Park
This one’s close to home — literally. I grew up with these mountains and the iconic star on the mountain outside my window. And I can tell you firsthand: this area doesn’t just look stunning, it has a kind of energy that feels like a homecoming. For couples looking for a rugged, grounding place to exchange vows, this one’s a gem. You can see El Paso, Juárez, and even parts of New Mexico all at once, and if you time it right, golden hour will wrap you in light that feels almost sacred. Just minutes from downtown El Paso, this park offers the best of both worlds — remote and quiet when you need it. And still close to the good food and the heartbeat of the border culture.
Best time of year to elope:
Fall – Spring (Sep-Apr)
Best activities:
Hiking, Scenic Drives, Rock Climbing, Mountain Biking, Bird Watching, Picnicking, Backcountry Camping
Big Bend Ranch State Park
If you’re dreaming of getting married in Big Bend, but want something more open, less traveled, and way easier to explore without the crowds or red tape of the national park (which we also love). This is your park. It’s wild, remote, and just breathtaking. It’s the kind of place that makes you appreciate the quiet energy of a moment. Whether you’re hiking into desert canyons, off-roading, or horseback riding through rugged ocotillo-filled backcountry, or reading your vows at a quiet overlook above the Rio Grande, there’s a stillness out here that helps everything fall into place. It’s adventure without the pressure — just wide open space to breathe, explore, and be fully present.
Note: This is one of those state parks where dogs or other pets have limited access. So be sure to research where you and your guest of honor can travel together first.
Best time of year to elope:
Fall – Spring (Sep-Apr)
Best activities:
Hiking, Stargazing, Scenic Drives, Horseback Riding, River Paddling, 4x4 Touring, River Rafting, Camping, Picnicking
Photo by Marcus Connolly
Davis Mountains State Park
Tucked into the high desert, this park offers cool breezes, wide views, and a peacefulness that’s hard to describe. It’s a favorite for couples who want quiet moments, golden hills, and some of the best stargazing in the state. There’s even a full-service hotel and restaurant right inside the park boundaries, which means you can hike to your ceremony spot, then come back to a cozy bed at the end of the day.
Best time of year to elope:
Fall – Spring (Sep-Apr)
Best activities:
Hiking, Stargazing, Scenic Drives, Horseback Riding, Glamping, Bird Watching, Picnicking
Perdenales Falls State Park
The sound of the river over the rocks, the sunlight glinting off the falls — this spot has a gentle kind of magic. Just an hour west of Austin, it’s a favorite among both locals and eloping couples. It’s close enough to the city for a few guests to join, yet far enough to feel like your own little escape. We’ve seen couples say their vows right by the falls, shoes off, and laughing. Cool off in the swimming hole. Share tacos and Jarritos under the trees. Then head back into town to toast the night under a sky full of stars.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring, Early Summer, + Fall (Mar-Jul, Aug-Oct)
Best activities:
Hiking, Swimming, Picnicking, Bird Watching
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
This is one of those places that just sticks with you. Before you even get there, you’ll spot the dome — a massive pink granite formation rising above the trees like it’s callin’ you in. Sunrise or sunset on the summit is unforgettable. You’ll see the Hill County in every direction. Or stay tucked beneath the oaks and let the stillness settle in as you read your vows. And because it’s just minutes away from the wine of Fredericksburg, you can turn your trip into a full-on weekend getaway.
Note: Day passes sell out fast here, so you’ll want to grab yours as soon as they’re available (30 days in advance) on the TSP Website.
Best time of year to elope:
Fall – Spring (Oct-Apr)
Best activities:
Hiking, Stargazing, Rock Climbing, Camping, Picnicking, Bird Watching
Inks Lake State Park
There’s something about Inks Lake that feels like summer — slow, sun-warmed, and full of joy. You can hike to overlooks, paddle on the water, or sneak away to Devil’s Waterhole for a swim after you say your vows. It’s peaceful without trying too hard to be. We’ve seen couples toast with croissants on a blanket here. Share a private morning together with their feet in the water. And at the end of the day, you can head to a nearby winery to wrap up the day.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)
Best activities:
Hiking, Stargazing, Swimming, Paddling, Camping, Picnicking, Bird Watching
Lost Maples State Natural Area
Lost Maples is the kind of place that feels extra special in the fall, when the maple trees put on their vibrant colors. But honestly, this park is beautiful any time of year. It’s remote and a little tucked away. And perfect for couples who want to be surrounded by nature without turning the day into a big trek or planning something elaborate. You can wander a trail or find a private spot along the overlook to exchange your vows. Anywhere you go, this park makes every memory here feel so special.
And if you’re chasing those fall colors, lately they’ve been peaking around late November to early December. You can keep an eye on the park’s website for updates. Just keep in mind this is also the busiest time of year, so you might have to share the trails with a few more folks.
Note: Day passes sell out fast here (especially during fall), so you’ll want to grab yours as soon as they’re available (30 days in advance) on the TSP website.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring – Early Winter (Mar-Dec)
Best activities:
Hiking, Stargazing, Picnicking, Bird Watching, Swimming, Backcountry Camping
Monahans Sandhills State Park
This one’s for the playful romantics who love to have fun like kids. Monahans is one of the most unexpected landscapes in Texas. Soft white sand dunes, endless sky, and that feeling of being the only people in the world. We’ve seen couples pack a picnic, race each other down the dunes, and then just lie back and stargaze together. It’s one of the most unexpectedly fun and free-spirited places we’ve seen.
Best time of year to elope:
Fall – Spring (Sep-Apr)
Best activities:
Sand/Dune Surfing, Horseback Riding, Hiking, Picnicking
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” This place is all about panoramic views and beautiful red rock formations. Great for couples who want dramatic views, space to hike, and explore. Read your vows in a tucked-away ricón near the valley edge. And as one of the only state parks to offer luxe glamping tents where you can explore all day, then crawl into a warm bed under a canvas roof. You’ve also got the option to celebrate with guests at the Mack Dick Pavilion — a spacious indoor-outdoor venue right inside the canyon, perfect for a shared meal or sunset gathering after your vows.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)
Best activities:
Hiking, Glamping, Camping, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Picnicking
Lake Casa Blanca International State Park
Lake Casa is such a special spot for us. We’ve captured so many stories here. And if you’ve followed our work for a while, you probably already know how much we love it. Honestly, this place is so underrated. It’s tucked right in Laredo, but still manages to feel calm and spacious — like you’ve stepped out of the city without going far. Especially in the spring and fall, the huisache and mesquite turn soft green, and the weather is just right.
You can read your vows on the rocky lakeshore, take a moment for yourselves, and then celebrate with a carne asada and the kind of laughter that fills the whole evening as you all settle in together.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)
Best activities:
Hiking, Picnicking, Bird Watching, Paddling, Swimming
Mustang Island State Park
Just 30 minutes south of Corpus Christi, Mustang Island has the kind of beach that feels open and untouched. The sand is soft, the breeze is cool and gentle, and the waves move with a rhythm that calms your nerves without you even realizing it. Just picture it. Finding a quiet stretch of the sand to exchange your vows as the sun sets. Dipping your toes (or diving straight) into the water together afterwards. And then celebrating the night away by a warm campfire with s’mores, good music, and the stars shining above. Or maybe you’d rather wrap up the night at a nearby bnb, toasting to your new adventure with a bottle of wine and a warm meal.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring, Fall, + Winter (Mar-Jun, Aug-Jan)
Best activities:
Walking on the Beach, Camping, Kayaking, Picnicking, Wind Surfing, Building Sand Castles
Caprock Canyons State Park
Caprock is wild and beautiful in a way that sneaks up on you. The trails wind through quiet, open valleys framed by sheer canyon walls. And as you follow the trails, they’ll lead you to sweeping views that stretch across the valley below. If you’re lucky you might spot the official state bison herd grazing nearby. This park is a bit lesser known, which makes it ideal for couples who want a more private and remote experience. We love it for its quiet energy and those wide open views. It makes even the little moments like lacing up your boots or holding hands on the trail feel special.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)
Best activities:
Hiking, Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Backcountry Camping, Picnicking
Photo by Marcus Connolly
Caddo Lake State Park
This is another one of those places we can’t believe is in Texas. There’s something about the way the light filters through those cypress trees. It just hits different. It’s quiet, still, and kind of otherworldly. If you want a wedding day that feels like a magical dream (think wizardly), this park could be it. Imagine canoeing through the bayou in the morning. Exchanging your vows under the moss-covered canopy, wrapped up in the wonder of it all. It’s a place that invites presence.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-May, Aug-Nov)
Best activities:
Canoeing, Hiking, Boating, Picnicking
Tyler State Park
Here is one of those underdog parks. The pine trees stretch high overhead, the spring-fed lake stays cool and clear, and mornings here are especially peaceful. It’s great for couples who want a relaxed morning, a quiet ceremony by the water, and maybe a paddle or picnic afterward. Nothing rushed, nothing fancy — just real, beautiful time together.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Feb-May, Sep-Oct)
Best activities:
Hiking, Swimming, Paddling, Bird Watching, Boating, Picnicking
Fort Boggy State Park
Small but mighty, this park is perfect for couples who want privacy without the hassle — easy-to-access ceremony spots, simple parking, and trails that don’t demand a long, strenuous hike. There’s a quiet lake, shady trails, the cutest cabins, and just enough space to create a fulfilling experience without overthinking or overplanning. You could start your day finding a quiet spot to say your vows by the lake. Then take some time to just be — sit by the water, maybe go for a swim. End the evening with a simple charcuterie picnic under the shade of the old oaks, soaking in the moment together. It’s the kind of place that helps you slow down and just be.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring, Fall, + Early Winter (Mar-Jun, Oct-Dec)
Best activities:
Hiking, Swimming, Camping, Picnicking, Bird Watching
South Llano River State Park
Where Hill Country meets West Texas. With a spring-fed river, shady pecan groves, and skies that feel like they go on forever. This park gives you space to breathe. Perfect for a laid-back float or just dipping your feet after a warm afternoon ceremony. Imagine a private bnb nearby, hammocks strung between trees. Vows said with the sound of the river in the background, and a lantern-lit evening to yourselves.
Best time of year to elope:
Fall + Spring (Sep-Nov, Mar-May)
Best activities:
Tubing, Stargazing, Paddling, Camping, Bird Watching
Garner State Park
Garner is a Texas classic — chances are you’ve spent a summer floating in the river here. The Frio River is clear and cool. Perfect for a post-ceremony float. And the overlooks are stunning if you wanna sneak away from the crowd (especially in the fall). Or dance under the stars like so many have before you. It’s nostalgic, scenic, and full of chances to make new memories that feel just as timeless.
Note: Day passes sell out fast here, so you’ll want to grab yours as soon as they’re available (30 days in advance) on the TSP website.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring, Fall, + Early Winter (Mar-May, Oct-Dec)
Best activities:
Hiking, Stargazing, Tubing, Swimming, River Paddling, Camping, Picnicking, Line Dancing (seasonal)
Guadalupe River State Park
Just 45 minutes from San Antonio, this park feels like a deep breath you didn’t know you needed. Towering cypress trees line the spring-fed river, with their big roots that reach into the water like they’ve quietly watched over this river for generations. Most of the best parts of the park are just a short walk from the parking lot, which makes it feel laid-back in the best way. We’ve seen couples spend slow mornings watching the light filter through the trees as they said their vows barefoot on the riverbank. It’s the kind of space that helps you tune out all the noise and reflect on what really matters.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-May, Sep-Nov)
Best activities:
Swimming, Tubing, Hiking, Camping, Horseback Riding, Bird Watching, Picnicking
Hill Country State Natural Area
This park feels like a secret. It’s about as wild and remote as it gets in the Hill Country — and that’s exactly why we love it. A private ranch turned state park. It’s the perfect place for couples who are looking for wide-open skies, golden grass, and an untouched space to just be. It’s the kind of place where you can unplug, get muddy, and maybe camp out after to watch the stars come out.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring + Fall (Mar-Jun, Sep-Nov)
Best activities:
Hiking, Horseback Riding, Stargazing, Bird Watching, Backcountry Camping, Picnicking
Goliad State Park & Historic Site
Home to a beautifully restored Spanish mission, Mission Espíritu Santo, this park carries centuries of stories. It’s perfect for couples who want a quiet, meaningful ceremony surrounded by old adobe walls and soft light. Wander the riverside trails or the nearby historic sites, and then head into town for tacos and a toast. History, intimacy, and simplicity all in one place.
Best time of year to elope:
Spring (Mar-Jun)
Best activities:
Hiking, Bird Watching, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnicking
Feeling inspired, but still unsure how to pull it all together?
Hey, we’re Nora & Kevin
Your Texas State Park elopement photographer & videographer duo. Over the years, we’ve watched these parks show up with exactly what couples need: a quiet overlook, a wind-swept ridge, a little sun through the trees when you least expect it. No pressure, no expectations, just the freedom to be yourselves and actually take it all in. If you’re still dreaming of a day that feels like you — unrushed, connected, and full of meaning — we’d be honored to help you create it.
Our Texas State Park elopement packages include support to actually make it happen — from helping you choose the right park to guiding you through permits and building a timeline that actually works for you. And when the day comes, we’ll be there to document it all with photo and video that capture not just how it looked, but how it felt to live it.
You can check out the full details here, or reach out if you’d rather talk it through — we’re always down to help you dream it up.
A few last tips before you head off:
Start with the feeling, not the checklist.
Think about what the right kind of day feels like first. Let that vision guide your planning.You don’t have to be “outdoorsy.”
Texas State Parks aren’t just for hikers. They’ve got everything from peaceful riversides to drive-up overlooks. You don’t need to hit a trailhead to deserve a beautiful, meaningful space.Check the park rules early.
Each one’s a little different, and knowing what’s possible ahead of time can save a lot of stress later.Trust your gut.
If a spot makes you both light up, even if it’s not the most “epic” one on the list, it’s probably the right one.
At the end of the day, eloping in a Texas State Park means choosing a place that can hold your story — without all the noise. Because you don’t need a big production to feel something real. If you’re still holding out for something that actually feels like you, these parks are proof it’s possible.
