Smith Rock Wedding Guide

Welcome to the ultimate guide to getting married at Smith Rock State Park! Tucked right up in the high desert of Central Oregon, Smith Rock is not only a world-renowned destination for badasses who love rock climbing and outdoor adventure, it’s also a mind-blowing spot for badasses who love falling in love and getting hitched.

There’s seriously nothing like this backdrop of towering cliffs, rugged canyons, and the beautiful waters of the Crooked River below. With its epic landscape and sweeping views of the Cascade Range, Smith Rock is guaranteed to blow your mind and make your wedding day absolutely unforgettable

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about planning your wedding at Smith Rock. From logistics and permits to ceremony locations and nearby accommodations, we've got you covered every step of the way. Whether you're dreaming of an intimate elopement or a bigger celebration with family and friends, we’re gonna make it happen!

Where is Smith Rock State Park?

Smith Rock State Park is located in central Oregon, near the small town of Terrebonne. This renowned state park lies roughly 26 miles north of Bend and about 144 miles southeast of Portland, making it accessible for both local and destination weddings.

How to Get to Smith Rock

Getting to Smith Rock State Park for your wedding or visit is straightforward, whether you're coming from within Oregon or traveling from farther afield. I know you’ve got an app that will do all of this for you, but I did say it was a comprehensive guide.

By Car:
The most common way to reach Smith Rock State Park is by car. From Portland, take US-26 E and US-97 S, a journey that typically takes around 3 hours. If you're coming from Bend, it's a much shorter drive, approximately 30 minutes, via US-97 N. The park is located off of NE Crooked River Drive, with clear signage directing visitors to the entrance.

Flying into Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM):
For those flying in, the nearest major airport is Roberts Field-Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), about 15 miles south of the park. This airport has several major airlines and offers car rentals, making it a convenient option for out-of-state guests. From the airport, take US-97 N towards Terrebonne and follow signs to Smith Rock State Park.

Flying into Portland International Airport (PDX):
Portland International Airport offers a wide range of domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for wedding guests traveling from further away. Upon arriving at PDX, guests have several options for making the scenic journey to Smith Rock State Park. Renting a car from PDX and driving is a popular choice, giving some flexibility for exploring the area.

What is the best season to get married at Smith Rock State Park?

The ideal season for eloping at Smith Rock State Park largely depends on your preferences for weather and scenery, but generally, late spring through early fall is considered the best time. From May to October, the weather is typically mild and conducive to outdoor ceremonies, with fewer chances of rain and comfortable temperatures (it can get hot like you wouldn't believe when you’re hiking!). Spring offers a vibrant backdrop of blooming wildflowers, while fall provides a dramatic landscape with changing foliage. Summer can get real warm, especially in July and August, so planning for morning or late afternoon ceremonies during these months is advisable to avoid the heat.

What is the best time of day to get married at Smith Rock State Park?

In addition to avoiding the heat, early morning or late afternoon are the best times of day to elope at Smith Rock State Park to take advantage of the soft, natural lighting. Sunrise and sunset ceremonies not only give stunning lighting conditions for photo and video but also typically encounter fewer crowds, providing a more intimate setting. Morning elopements can capture the breathtaking beauty of the first light hitting the rock formations, while late afternoon or sunset ceremonies are treated to the warm, golden hues that illuminate the park. We typically shoot early in the morning in to the afternoon, so we get the best of both worlds.

Do you have to pay to park at Smith Rock State Park?

Yes, parking at Smith Rock State Park requires a day-use fee, which helps with the maintenance and preservation of the park. Visitors can purchase a daily parking permit on-site. If you’re local or planning to visit multiple Oregon state parks or return to Smith Rock multiple times throughout the year, an annual state park pass may give some savings and convenience. When you get your parking permit, make sure those bad boys are visibly displayed on your vehicles to avoid fines. The park has designated parking areas, and it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot due to the park’s popularity.

Do we need a permit to elope at Smith Rock State Park?

Maybe. For small elopements, you may not have an issue, but it may be required for a larger elopement or wedding. It’s recommended to apply for this permit well in advance of your desired date to secure approval and understand any specific regulations or limitations that may apply to your ceremony. As of right now, there’s no option to apply for a special use permit online, but you can call to find out if one is required for your wedding. 541-548-7501

Are there any designated areas within the park for ceremonies, or can we choose our spot?

Smith Rock State Park has designated areas where ceremonies are typically allowed to minimize impact on the park's natural resources and ensure the enjoyment of all park visitors. However, you have a lot of flexibility to choose your ceremony location within certain parameters set by the park. Don’t forget that in addition to the actual ceremony, we’ll spend time traveling throughout the park to document your wedding day.

Can we bring our own decorations and furniture for the ceremony?

Smith Rock State Park allows minimal decorations for elopements and weddings, with an emphasis on preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the landscape. Items like free-standing arches or floral arrangements are generally permitted, but they must not damage the environment or wildlife habitats. The use of confetti, rice, balloons, or anything that could be left behind or impact wildlife is strictly prohibited. Portable seating may be allowed for guests requiring accommodation, but overall, ceremonies are encouraged to embrace the natural setting without extensive alterations. Always check the specific guidelines provided with your Special Use Permit to ensure compliance.

What is Leave No Trace?

Practicing Leave No Trace principles during an elopement at Smith Rock State Park is crucial to preserving its natural beauty and ensuring it remains a stunning venue for future couples. Here are some best practices tailored for ceremonies at Smith Rock to minimize environmental impact:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare:

Obtain all necessary permits, including a Special Use Permit for larger weddings.
Familiarize yourself with the park's regulations, especially concerning ceremony locations and allowable decorations.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces:

Use established trails and designated areas for ceremonies to prevent damage to off-trail landscapes.
Avoid creating new paths or disturbing untouched natural areas.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly:

Carry out all trash and decorations you bring in, including floral arrangements and any ceremony materials.
If applicable, ensure all food waste and packaging are removed from the park.

4. Leave What You Find:

Resist the temptation to take natural souvenirs such as rocks, plants, or artifacts.
Do not carve, etch, or alter any natural features or park structures.

5. Respect Wildlife:

Keep a respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter to avoid stress or disturbance.
Do not feed wildlife, as it alters their natural behaviors and diet.

6. Be Considerate of Other Visitors:

Choose ceremony times that are less likely to conflict with peak visitor hours to minimize disruption.
Keep ceremony noise levels respectful to ensure all park visitors can enjoy the natural tranquility of Smith Rock.

How Accessible is Smith Rock?

Smith Rock State Park is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, and efforts have been made to ensure that visitors of all abilities can enjoy what the park has to offer. The park’s accessibility features include:

Parking and Restrooms: There are designated accessible parking spaces available near the park's main entrance, ensuring easy access to the park's starting point. Accessible restroom facilities are also available near the parking area and visitor center, providing convenience for all visitors.
Paved Paths: While the rugged terrain and natural trails of Smith Rock might pose challenges for visitors with mobility impairments, there are paved paths around the park’s welcome center and picnic areas that are more accessible. These paths offer beautiful views of the park without the need for navigating steep or uneven ground.
Viewing Areas: The park features several viewing areas with stunning vistas of the rock formations and the Crooked River that can be accessed via more accessible paths, allowing all visitors to appreciate the beauty of the area.
Assistance at the Welcome Center: Visitors can stop by the welcome center for information on the park’s accessible features and advice on which areas might be best suited to their needs. Park staff can provide updates on trail conditions and accessibility options.

Can I bring my dog to my Smith Rock State Park elopement?

Heck yeah! Smith Rock State Park is pet-friendly, allowing well-behaved dogs on leashes no longer than six feet. Your pup is welcome to join you for your elopement ceremony and explore the park's trails with you. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, waste bags, and any necessary supplies to keep your pup comfortable throughout the day.

What should I pack for my Smith Rock State Park elopement?

When prepping for your elopement at Smith Rock State Park, it's essential to pack wisely. Be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and sturdy footwear for hiking and exploring the park's trails. You’ll definitely want to bring some warmer layers for the early morning.

Can you get drone footage of our elopement at Smith Rock State Park?

Yup!

WHAT’S NEXT?

If you’re planning on a Smith Rock wedding, you’ve got damn good taste and an adventurer’s spirit. I think we’re gonna be friends. This is me btw, shaking my camera around on the Oregon Coast cause who cares about a little water and sand damage when you’re creating beautiful freaking art with amazing people. The wedding is gonna be epic, let’s make sure the video never lets you forget it! Let’s schedule a quick meeting to get to know each other and see if we’re a good fit!

Let's Connect!