How to Elope in the Badlands, South Dakota
When it comes to elopements, couples are increasingly seeking out destinations that offer natural beauty, adventure, and intimacy. If you’re dreaming of exchanging vows in a setting unlike any other, this is your reminder that you don’t need to look beyond our own country to find it. With its otherworldly landscapes, striking rock formations, and peaceful solitude, the Badlands National Park offers a stunning backdrop for a wedding day that is as wild as it is unforgettable.
When my husband and I roadtripped all the way from Upstate, New York to South Dakota, the highlight of our trip was handsdown, The Badlands National Park. We arrived at 5:00am to watch the sunrise, explored formations, climbed steep and muddy trails, and drove through pretty much the entire park. It quickly became my favorite place in America. With its dramatic terrain of deep canyons, sharp peaks, and sweeping vistas, the Badlands would be an incredible location for couples looking to have an affordable, yet extraordinary elopement. Here’s why it’s such a fantastic choice for elopements:
1. Stunning Natural Beauty
The Badlands are a geological wonder. The park’s rugged landscape is a photographer’s dream (it sure is this photographer’s dream!), providing a dynamic and breathtaking backdrop for wedding photos. The golden glow of the sunrise and sunset over the layered hills creates a magical ambiance.
2. Privacy and Seclusion
One of the most appealing aspects of eloping is the chance to escape the pomp and circumstance of a traditional wedding. The Badlands provide a sense of peaceful solitude, where you can say your vows with just a few close loved ones—or none at all—surrounded by nature’s quiet grandeur. If you plan the timing right, you won’t have to worry about a crowd, and your ceremony will feel incredibly personal.
3. Adventure and Exploration
If you’re an adventurous couple who loves outdoor activities, the Badlands are the perfect place to explore together before or after your wedding. Hike one of the many rugged trails or take in a scenic drive along the Badlands Loop Road and immerse yourselves in this stunning environment. You can even choose to camp under the stars for a truly adventurous experience. (We had our 4-month old with us when we visited the Badlands, so that was a no for us!)
4. Affordable and Low-key
Traditional weddings can be expensive and stressful to plan, but eloping in the Badlands is an affordable alternative. With minimal travel expenses and the beauty of the park as your venue, your costs will be significantly lower (a total of around $130 for permits and day passes, which I’ll touch on further). Plus, you won’t have to worry about extravagant decorations or a large guest list, making for a low-key and stress-free event.
Best Time to Elope in the Badlands
The Badlands have a unique climate, and choosing the right time to visit is essential for a comfortable and memorable elopement. The spring and fall months (April to October) are ideal, as the weather is milder, with daytime temperatures ranging from 50-70°F. Summer can get quite hot, especially in July and August, while winter months (November to March) are cold and may bring snow, making road and path access more challenging.
Best Locations for Your Badlands Elopement
While the entire park offers incredible vistas, some spots are particularly popular for elopements:
Big Badlands Overlook
This iconic viewpoint offers sweeping views of the park’s rugged terrain and is perfect for a dramatic ceremony. The backdrop of jagged cliffs and valleys will make your vows feel even more meaningful.
Pinnacles Overlook
This location provides a more intimate setting with its towering spires of rock that rise from the earth. It’s a breathtaking location for couples seeking both seclusion and grandeur.
The Notch Trail
If you and your partner are up for a bit of a hike, The Notch Trail offers a more secluded, adventurous setting. With a challenging climb to a narrow ridge, the payoff is panoramic views of the surrounding landscape—a truly unique spot for exchanging vows.
Sage Creek Rim Road
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, this lesser-known area offers a tranquil, isolated location with amazing vistas and wildlife sightings. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet, private ceremony.
What Do I Need to Get Married in the Badlands?
To legally marry in South Dakota, you’ll need to obtain a marriage license from any county courthouse in the state. There’s no waiting period, and you don’t need to be a resident of South Dakota to marry there. Be sure to bring photo identification.
To have your wedding or intimate elopement in the Badlands National Park, you will need to obtain a Special Use permit by filling out their “short form” along with a $100 fee. Keep in mind that you will need to submit the application at least 45 days in advance of your event date.
The Special Use permit is separate from the park entrance fee. When you enter the park on your event date, you will still need to pay for a day pass, which is around $30 per vehicle.
What to Pack for your Badlands Elopement
Since the Badlands are a national park, it’s important to be prepared for the elements, especially if you plan to explore the trails or celebrate outdoors. Here’s a quick packing list to keep in mind:
- Weather-appropriate clothing for your ceremony (think breathable fabrics in summer or layered clothing in cooler months)
- Footwear for hiking if you’re venturing off the main roads, exploring paths, or climbing peaks
- A picnic blanket, folding chairs, or anything you want for your ceremony setup
- Sunscreen / sunglasses / hat for sun protection
- Water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking or spending a lot of time outdoors
- A professional photographer who knows the park and can capture the stunning beauty of the location (oh, hello!)
- Officiant and witnesses (if you choose to have them) or a marriage license from the state of South Dakota
My Final Thoughts
Eloping in the Badlands of South Dakota offers a beautiful, intimate, and unforgettable wedding experience. With its dramatic landscapes, quiet solitude, and the opportunity for adventure, the Badlands provide a unique backdrop for couples looking to celebrate their love in an extraordinary way. Whether you’re seeking a simple ceremony with just the two of you or a small gathering of loved ones, the Badlands offer a stunning setting for a wedding you’ll remember for a lifetime.
If you’re ready to elope in the Badlands, let’s talk about how I can be a part of it, help you plan your elopement, and document your incredible love story with the beauty of the Badlands as your backdrop!
Kind Words
tegan & aaron
"We were both so excited and nervous about getting our pictures taken. Brittany was amazing at helping us relax and kept us laughing the whole time, and that is where the magic was made. Brittany really took the time to get to know our style and be sure she was getting all the shots that we wanted!"
