How to elope in Big Bend
- 6 hours ago
- 3 min read
Big bend is one of those places people don’t usually choose by accident.
It’s quiet, remote, and peaceful.
If you’re thinking about eloping here, it’s probably because you want space. Not just physically, but mentally too. Space from expectations, space from noise, space for intention.
What Big Bend is actually like
Big Bend is big in a VERY real way.
Super long stretches of road. Desert that goes on forever. Mountains off in the distance. Skies that feel way bigger.
Cell service is spotty, sometimes nonexistent, and honestly, that’s part of the appeal. You’re not constantly pulled away from the moment with the outside world, with social media, with calls. You're truly just existing in the moment. You feel small in the best way possible.
National park vs state park
This is one of the biggest decisions. When people say “big bend,” they’re usually talking about one of two places, and they’re pretty different.
Big Bend National Park
This is the more well known option. Iconic desert views, established areas, more visitors.
You do need a permit to elope here, and there are specific locations where ceremonies are allowed. It’s totally doable, it just takes a little planning and patience.
This is a good choice if you want those classic big bend views and don’t mind a bit more structure.
Big Bend Ranch State Park
This one feels little more rugged.
It’s larger, less crowded, and feels more remote overall. Permits are still required, but the process tends to feel simpler and more relaxed.
A lot of couples choose the state park for the most privacy.
Why people choose to elope here
People don’t choose Big Bend because it’s easy, they choose it because it strips things back.
There’s no pressure to perform, no distractions, no audience. It’s just you, the landscape, and your love. This isn't to say that it's hard, but Big Bend is very remote.
It takes time to get there. Services are limited.
But for the people who choose it, that’s usually the whole point.
Big Bend is one of my favorite places on earth. It is worth it in every way possible.
Big Bend Weather
This part matters a lot.
Big Bend weather isn’t something you want to wing.
Fall and early spring - usually the best/most popular times. October through March tends to be comfortable, with warm days and cooler mornings and nights.
Summer - It gets extremely hot. Like, dangerously hot. Most summer elopements here are not recommended unless you’re planning around sunrise only.
Winter - My personal favorite. Quiet and beautiful, colder than you might expect. Winter is my favorite for here, the cold tends to bring in less crowds, and with it staying cold throughout the day you're able to do things all day long without getting too hot.
Wind is common year round. Layers help. Planning around temperature and light makes a huge difference in how the day feels.
What an elopement day can look like
There’s no one right way to do this.
Some couples keep it really simple. Maybe a short walk, quiet ceremony, sunset photos, dinner back at their stay.
Others make a full day of it. Sunrise hikes, exploring different areas, hot springs, sunset ceremony and star portraits.
Maybe you want something in-between!
Big Bend gives you room to decide as you go instead of forcing everything into a tight timeline.
That’s really it - How to elope in Big Bend
Eloping in big bend is straight dream material.
If you’re dreaming about it and wondering which park makes sense, how to obtain permits, how weather might affect things, or how to plan a day that actually feels calm, and want the most epic photos of your day, reach out. I'd love to hear from you.
And if you're looking for my top Airbnb recommendation, check out this blog below!
Comments