How to Elope in Red Rock Canyon, Las Vegas, NV

If you’ve been dreaming of saying “I do” surrounded by towering red cliffs, wide-open desert skies, and landscapes that look like they belong on another planet, then eloping in Red Rock Canyon might just be your perfect adventure. Just a short drive from the excitement of the Las Vegas Strip, Red Rock offers couples the best of both worlds: breathtaking natural beauty and the convenience of one of the easiest destinations to plan a wedding.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning a Red Rock Canyon elopement—from permits and locations to what makes this desert gem so magical.

red rock elopement

Table of Contents

Why Choose Red Rock Canyon for Your Elopement?
The Best Ceremony Spots in Red Rock Canyon
How to Get a Permit to Elope in Red Rock Canyon
When to Elope in Red Rock Canyon
How Many Guests Can You Bring?
What to Do After Your Red Rock Canyon Elopement 
Tips for Planning Your Red Rock Canyon Elopement
Make Your Red Rock Canyon Elopement an Experience
Red Rock Canyon Elopement Packages

Why Choose Red Rock Canyon for Your Elopement?

Red Rock Canyon is a dream for couples who want a wedding that feels intimate, adventurous, and unforgettable. Here’s why it’s one of the most popular elopement spots near Las Vegas:

  • Incredible scenery: Red sandstone cliffs, desert wildflowers, Joshua trees, and mountain backdrops make your wedding photos unreal.

  • Close to Las Vegas: You can have a serene desert ceremony and still head back to the city for dinner, dancing, or even an Elvis reception if you’re feeling fun.

  • Easy access: The park is only about 30 minutes from the Strip, making it perfect for couples traveling with guests, even if that means traveling by party bus.

  • All year beauty: Whether you elope in spring with wildflowers, fall with cooler temps, or even a winter wonderland with snow-dusted peaks, it’s always stunning.

red rock canyon elopement
the lost road in las vegas

The Best Ceremony Spots in Red Rock Canyon

There are a handful of designated locations where weddings are allowed in Red Rock Canyon. Some of the most popular include:

These locations require a special use permit:

  • Red Spring Boardwalk: Gorgeous mountain backdrop, easy accessibility for guests, and stunning light for photos.

  • Overlook: Panoramic views of the canyon, perfect for sunset ceremonies.

  • Ash Spring: A desert meadow surrounded by Joshua trees—perfect for a more intimate, nature-centered vibe.

  • Spring Mountain Ranch State Park: 

    These locations do not require a special use permit:

  • The Lone Road: A spot right outside of an old historical property.

  • Other secret locations: When you’ve been in Las Vegas as long as we have you don’t not run across secret spots that you only happen to share with clients. Just sayin’.

 

How to Get a Permit to Elope in Red Rock Canyon

To have your ceremony at Red Rock, you’ll need a wedding permit through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Here’s what you need to know:

  • Permits are required for both ceremonies and professional photography.

  • Only certain approved wedding companies and photographers can apply for the permits. (Hint: working with an experienced elopement photographer/officiant team makes this so much easier!  We just so happen to include fees and application completion in all of our packages)

  • Permit costs vary, but typically range from $200–$500 depending on location and group size.

When to Elope in Red Rock Canyon

Timing is everything when it comes to desert weddings.  Red Rock can sometimes be way cooler than 

  • Best Seasons: Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are the most popular for mild weather.

  • Summer: It gets very hot (often over 100°F), so early morning or sunset ceremonies are best.

  • Winter: Chilly but beautiful—you may even catch snow on the peaks!

And trust us—sunset at Red Rock Canyon is pure magic.

How Many Guests Can You Bring?

Red Rock is ideal for intimate ceremonies. Guest counts are limited, usually 50 people or fewer depending on the location. If you’re dreaming of a huge wedding, this isn’t the spot—but if you’re craving intimacy and experience, it’s perfect.

What to Do After Your Red Rock Canyon Elopement

One of the best parts about eloping here is how many ways you can celebrate afterward:

  • Have a romantic picnic with champagne and charcuterie in the desert.

  • Head back into Las Vegas for a rooftop dinner with city views.

  • Book a suite at a luxury resort and soak in the just-married vibes.

  • Party the night away on Fremont Street or with a private reception.

Here’s our full list of all of the things you can do in Las Vegas after your elopement.

red rock elopement
what to do after your red rock elopement

Tips for Planning Your Red Rock Canyon Elopement

  • Work with local vendors who know the permit process and best photo spots.

  • Wear comfortable shoes—there will likely be some walking over rocks and sand.

  • Plan for the light. Sunrise and sunset give you the most flattering, dreamy photos.

  • Bring water and sunscreen—it’s the desert after all!

Make Your Red Rock Canyon Elopement an Experience

Sure, you can rush through a quick ceremony in Red Rock Canyon but with it being such a huge, beautiful place to explore, why would you? The nightlife and everything in Las Vegas is all day, everyday.  It’ll be there the moment you get there. 

If you love the great outdoors, take your time for a quick hike (yes, even in your wedding gear.), maybe hire a personal chef to cook at camp for you and your guests (yes, you can camp at Red Rock Canyon and there’s large group camp sites as well), or just do a drive through the loop, stop at spots for a picnic, a first dance, and a little off-roading maybe?

Whether you’re planning a just-us adventure or inviting a handful of your closest loved ones, your Red Rock Canyon elopement will be one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.

Red Rock Canyon Elopement Packages

Full Las Vegas elopement planning.
Personalized Las Vegas guide.
Questionnaires, vendor recommendations, permitting, and client portal access.
Unlimited planning and access to your elopement team.
We’ll be your defacto tour guides for all things Las Vegas.

Ceremony Services
Officiant services by Pop Andrini.
Marriage license guidance.
Custom ceremony.

Photography
From 4-16 hours of professional photography coverage by Mari Andrini.
Drone footage (location and weather permitting).
Sneak peeks within 48 hours.
All Light Preserves on a secure online gallery.

Ranges from $4000-$8000

If you’d like to discuss your own elopement dreams and receive a custom live pricing, fill the form out below and we’ll reach out within the next 24 hours.