Let me be the first one to tell you, if you’re debating on having an intimate wedding or want to elope at Crater Lake National Park, debate no more. It’s a great option for simple and intimate adventure weddings or an elopement.
Located in the heart of the Southern Oregon Cascades, Crater Lake is a gorgeous choice for an adventure elopement or intimate wedding. Getting married at Crater Lake isn’t as hard as it may seem. Sure, you’ll need a special event permit, but it’s inexpensive, and if your wedding date is at least 6-8 weeks from now, you’re golden. I’ve spoken to the powers that be on behalf of your awesome self, so let me give you all the pertinent info: You need a permit. This totals a cost of $100. $50 to apply for the special wedding or elopement, and $50 for the actual permit once you’re approved. On the permit, you need to list first choices of locations and dates and allow 8 weeks for processing.
Your ceremony/reception will be outdoors. Crater Lake does not supply or offer indoor accommodations for weddings or elopements. They have plenty of outdoor options, though, especially after late June/early July, when all the Rim Drives are typically open.
Some things to consider. Amplified music isn’t allowed, and that includes portable music like a boom box. Accoustic music is totally allowedthough, if it doesn’t disturb other park visitors. That means you should definitely ask your guitar friend to gift you a serenade as their wedding present ;-). I also highly suggest giving Anastasia Allison of the Musical Moutaineers a call – she plays a mean violin and hiking to serenade the mountains at sunrise is her jam. They’re also on Instagram and Facebook. In addition, throwing flowers, rice, balloons, or butterflies is not permitted to keep the integrity of the local ecosystem intact. Most of my brides and grooms understand and don’t usually plan on incorporating that stuff anyway for that particular reason (#leavenotrace, babes).
Also to note. Sunset is busier than sunrise, but sunrise is no less beautiful. While you can’t prevent other visitors from enjoying the park, most people will stay well out of the way of an ongoing ceremony.
Important Facts Regarding Crater Lake National Park:
Entrance Fees – Cars are $10 in the winter (November 1-April 30), $20 in the summer (May 1-October 31). Admits one private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants. Good for up to 7 days.
Road Closures: The north entrance and rim drives open typically between May and July, depending on snowfall. Keep updated with current road conditions at https://www.nps.gov/crla/planyourvisit/conditions.htm.
Lodging: Need lodging suggestions for lodging or locations around the park for the perfect ceremony spot? Message me and let’s start planning your epic Crater Lake wedding! Weather: Even in July and August, the rim gets windy – particularly in the afternoon. When visiting in mid-June, I’ve seen the temp (with wind chill) drop down to the 30s, so it’s best to bring a jacket even if you think you won’t need one. The first snow of the fall/winter doesn’t typically happen until October, but September has seen snow on occasion.
