The Adventure Bride’s Guide to Eloping in Custer State Park, South Dakota
Hey Adventure Brides!
South Dakota is one of my very favorite places to shoot adventure elopements! The possibilities in this state are endless!
Nestled in the majestic Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park offers a picturesque backdrop for couples seeking a natural and intimate elopement experience. With its sweeping landscapes, serene lakes, and towering granite spires, this hidden gem provides the perfect setting for a romantic and unforgettable ceremony. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know to plan your dream elopement in the heart of Custer State Park.
1. Choosing the Perfect Location
Sylvan Lake Adventure Elopement; photos by Dye the Knot Adventure Weddings
Custer State Park boasts a variety of stunning locations for your elopement ceremony, each offering its own unique charm and beauty. Whether you envision exchanging vows beside a tranquil lake, beneath the towering granite peaks of the Needles, or amidst the golden hues of a sun-drenched meadow, the park offers countless options to suit your preferences and style.
Sylvan Lake is one of my favorite locations to recommend to adventure couples as you can hike as much as you want, but the cool photos happen with very minimal hiking to get to the gorgeous scenery.
2. Obtaining Permits
Before planning your elopement in Custer State Park, it's essential to obtain the necessary permits for your ceremony. Permits are required for all weddings and ceremonies held within the park, including elopements. Be sure to contact the park's permitting office well in advance to inquire about permit availability, fees, and any additional requirements. By securing the proper permits, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience on your special day. If you need help with this process, absolutely feel free to reach out to your amazing elopement photographer (hopefully me ;) for assistance!
3. Embracing the Wilderness
Eloping in Custer State Park allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of nature, creating a truly intimate and meaningful experience for you and your partner. Spend your day/days exploring the park's scenic trails, spotting wildlife, and marveling at the stunning landscapes that surround you. Whether you choose to hike, bike, or simply take in the views from the comfort of your car, Custer State Park offers endless opportunities for adventure and exploration. There are plenty of campground spots as well for couples who are looking to spend time in their tents or RV, or have family come to witness their event.
As always, be sure to clean up after yourself and be respectful of the wildlife that makes their homes within the borders of this beautiful park. Bison, chipmunks, donkeys, eagles, geese, ducks, mountain lions, bears, are some of the majestic animals that you may come into contact with during your hiking elopement in Custer State Park, South Dakota. The park’s webpage also has guidelines that are good to read through while you consider having your ceremony here, and again - as your adventure elopement photographer, I’m more than happy to answer/find answers to any questions or concerns you may have!
Sylvan Lake Adventure Elopement; photos by Dye the Knot Adventure Weddings
4. Capturing the Moment
Preserve the magic of your elopement day with stunning photographs that capture the essence of your love and the beauty of your surroundings. When looking for an adventure elopement photographer, it’s important to make sure you find someone who will work well with you as a couple and also show the proper respect to the environment during your ceremony. From dramatic vistas to intimate moments, Custer State Park provides countless opportunities for breathtaking photos that you'll cherish for a lifetime, and it’s important that we preserve this place for others to enjoy as well as the wildlife who live there.
If you’re looking for an elopement photographer for your SoDak elopement, I’d love to schedule a Discovery Call with you! Hop on over to the contact page on my website, fill out a few questions, and let’s chat!
5. Celebrating Your Love
After your ceremony, celebrate your love with a romantic picnic or dinner amidst the natural beauty of the park. Whether you choose to dine al fresco beside a babbling brook or beneath the starlit sky, Custer State Park offers the perfect backdrop for a romantic and unforgettable celebration. Rapid City is very close to the park and has several neat restaurants where you can have an after-party with family and friends!
There are plenty of other places you and your significant other and/or family can go to site-see which are covered in other blog posts as well.
Sylvan Lake Adventure Elopement; photos by Dye the Knot Adventure Weddings
Eloping in Custer State Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience that allows you to exchange vows amidst the stunning beauty of nature. From choosing the perfect location to obtaining permits and capturing the moment, this guide has everything you need to plan your dream elopement in the heart of the Black Hills. So pack your bags, grab your loved one's hand, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime in Custer State Park, South Dakota.
Till next week!
-Carlie
