BEST 6 PLACES FOR GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE IN 2025 AND 2026

WITH THE HENDRYS

Thinking about getting married in Joshua Tree?

WE’ve been shooting elopements and weddings worldwide for over 15 years, so you’re in solid hands WITH US. Now that we’re full-time SoCal locals, heading out to the desert is ONE OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS TO DO. Joshua Tree’s got a unique energy, and WE ARE SO HERE FOR THAT. LET’S MAKE SOME MAGICAL MOMENTS iN THOSE MAGICAL LANDS.

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OKAY, BEFORE WE GET DOWN TO IT, WHY JOSHUA TREE?

Joshua Tree offers a stunning desert landscape, featuring iconic Joshua trees and rugged rock formations. Its unique beauty creates the perfect backdrop for wedding photos, whether at sunset or under a clear sky, making your day unforgettable.

The park’s peaceful, secluded atmosphere allows you to truly connect with each other and the moment. Surrounded by the desert’s stillness, your ceremony will feel intimate and personal, free from distractions.

Joshua Tree also provides plenty of outdoor adventure. After the ceremony, you can explore the park’s trails, stargaze, or rock climb, turning your wedding day into a memorable experience in one of California’s most iconic locations.


Where to get married in Joshua Tree national Park?

You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to getting married in Joshua Tree National Park. this otherworldly landscape is as eclectic as it is awe-inspiring. From hidden canyons and sweeping desert vistas to surreal rock formations and ancient Joshua trees, the park offers a wild, natural canvas for couples craving a unique and intimate ceremony.

HERE ARE some of our favorite spots to photograph in Joshua TrEe NATIONAL PARK!
getting married in joshua tree
Hidden Valley
THIS IS OUR top pick for a reason—HIDDEN VALLEY HAS got everything you need for GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE IN TERMS OF HAVING A killer ceremony AND SOME AMAZING POST-CEREMONY PICS. Think expansive landscapes, endless Joshua Trees FOR MILES AND MILES, and stunning rock formations that make for ONE EXCELLENT backdrop. The trails here lead you through unique caves and boulders, giving you that rugged desert vibe. As the sun dips below the horizon, you’ll get aN EPIC sunset that MAKES EVERYTHING EVEN MORE MAGICAL.
hidden valley joshua tree wedding
hidden valley joshua tree wedding
hidden valley joshua tree wedding
hidden valley joshua tree wedding
Cap Rock

THIS IS another go-to spot, known for its impressive boulders and easy access WITH THE PARKING LITERALLY WITHIN AN ARMS (OKAY, MAYBE SEVERAL ARMS) REACH. This place is perfect for couples GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE, BUT looking to keep things simple, AND without sacrificing style. The natural layout OF CAP ROCK creates a cozy atmosphere for your guests, while the surrounding scenery makes it a visually striking place to say your “I dos.” AND THOSE TWO TREES, COMPLETE WITH MASSIVE BOULDERS, ARE PERFECT AS A BEAUT CEREMONY BACKDROP!

joshua tree cap rock wedding
joshua tree cap rock wedding
joshua tree cap rock wedding
indian cove Amphitheater

This natural amphitheater IS THE PERFECT HIDDEN GEM FOR COUPLES WHO ARE GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE AND ARE HAVING LONGER CEREMONIES AND/OR HAVE A BIGGER CREW IN ATTENDANCE SINCE THERE ARE BUILT-IN BENCHES–ALL while keeping that intimate desert atmosphere intact. IT IS Surrounded by striking rock formations, THE MOST EPIC BACKDROP FOR YOUR CEREMONY, AND SOME SWEET VIEWS, SO YOU DON’T REALLY HAVE TO GO ANYWHERE ELSE. THESE dramatic cliffs not only provide some shade but also amp up the cool factor for your day. INDIAN COVE Amphitheater IS THE PERFECT CHOICE FOR LARGER WEDDINGS AND CAN ACCOMMODATE UP TO 100 PEOPLE.

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Keys View

If you want those epic views FOR THAT LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA AFTER YOUR CEREMONY IN ANOTHER LOCATION, Keys View has you covered. Sitting high above the Coachella Valley, this lookout spot offers insane panoramas that stretch all the way to the Salton Sea. It’s the ideal backdrop for couples who want to soak in the desert’s beauty while celebrating their love. Trust us, THIS is a vibe you won’t want to miss.

joshua tree keys view elopement
joshua tree keys view elopement
Do we need a permit to get married in Joshua Tree National Park
SHORT ANSWER – YES. a Special Use Permit is required FOR GETTING married in JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL park. The application fee is $120 and is non-refundable. Applications must be submitted at least 15 business days in advance and no more than 12 months before your date. The permit allows for a two-hour ceremony, including setup, guest arrival, the ceremony itself, photography, and cleanup. OH, AND Permits are not issued on federal holidays or National Park Service free entrance day. WE’VE DONE THIS MANY TIMES SO WE’RE MORE THAN HAPPY TO HELP YOU OUT WITH THESE FORMALITIES!
getting married in joshua tree
WHAT ABOUT AROUND JOSHUA TREE TOWN?
WANNA GO SOMEWHERE THAT ISN’T THE PARK? NO PROBLEM! THERE ARE LOADS OF OTHER OPTIONS OUT THERE AND ARE EQUALLY AS RAD. HERE ARE A COUPLE OF DIFFERENT IDEAS TO THROW AT YA.
AUTOCAMP JOSHUA TREE
AutoCamp Joshua Tree offers a unique and stylish setting for GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE. Just minutes from THE Park, this boutique glamping venue combines mid-century modern design with luxurious amenities, providing an unforgettable backdrop for your special day. Couples can choose from four versatile event spaces: the air-conditioned Clubhouse, the open-air Mojave Dome, the expansive Desert Flat, and the intimate Ocotillo area nestled among Airstreams. Whether you envision an elegant indoor ceremony, a sunset reception under the stars, or a cozy fireside gathering, AutoCamp offers the flexibility to bring your dream wedding to life. Accommodations include climate-controlled Airstream suites and cabins, each equipped with modern comforts like kitchenettes, spa-inspired bathrooms, and private outdoor spaces. With its combination of natural beauty, modern design, and exceptional service, AutoCamp Joshua Tree is a perfect choice FOR YOU to celebrate WITH YOUR BEST PEOPLE in a truly distinctive setting.​
autocamp joshua tree wedding ceremony set up
autocamp joshua tree wedding photos
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autocamp joshua tree creative wedding photos
Airbnb
Are you more of a homebody who wants to keep things low-key on your elopement day? Booking an Airbnb is the way to go—just make sure to get the owner’s okay first! You’ll be spoiled for choice with some seriously rad ABODES in the area. From cozy desert cabins to modern pads with killer views, these cribs let you tie the knot in style without venturing too far. Imagine saying your vows surrounded by stunning landscapes, then kicking back and celebrating in your own private oasis. It’s the perfect blend of intimacy and adventure. AND YOU’RE STILL TECHNICALLY GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE!
joshua tree airbnb elopement
joshua tree airbnb elopement
joshua tree airbnb elopement
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HOWDY! we’re Sarah AND Darren, JOSHUA TREE WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER EXTRAORDINAIRES.


CAMERA-WIELDING WEIRDOS, 80s kids, AND MEGA NERDS who’ve been glued at the hip since the MySpace days. We ditched the 9-to-5 grind to snap couples smoochin’ – and honestly, it’s the best damn thing ever. If you’re after some traDISH pics, you might wanna keep looking, ’cause we’re definitely not your cup of tea.

LOOK MOM.
WE MADE IT.
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Wanna get those gears in motion? Alrighty then! 

Getting married in JOSHUA TREE is super easy and we’re there with you from the start! On top of being the photography ninjas that we are, our skills also expand to (but not limited to!):

‣ CHOOSING THE RIGHT LOCATION FOR YOU
‣ BUILDING A RELAXED TIMELINE TAILORED TO YOUR DAY
‣ PERMIT INFO FOR GETTING MARRIED IN THE PARK
‣ REFERRING YOU TO RAD VENDORS
‣ ON THE DAY HELP AND GUIDANCE
‣ POTENTIAL BACKUP PLAN FOR INCLEMENT WEATHER!
Click HERE to be whisked off to our all-important contact form. Drop us a line with all the particulars about how you want your elopement to pan out. Do try and send as much as you can as we love hearing all the juicy deets.

In the meantime, feel free to peep on a handful of our Joshua Tree elopement and intimate wedding galleries below! GETTING MARRIED IN JOSHUA TREE IS AS AMAZING AS EVERYONE SAYS IT IS.