Smith Rock State Park is a unique high desert location in Central Oregon featuring breathtaking red rock formations, world-class rock climbing, and scenic river trails. It is located in Terrebonne, OR, just 26 miles north of Bend, and it is an amazing location for couples who want a mix of adventure and stunning backdrops for their elopement day.

With dramatic cliffs and sweeping high desert views, it is especially beautiful during the golden hour. Whether you’re hiking to a secluded overlook, exchanging vows by the river, or celebrating with a climb, your elopement here will be truly special! As an experienced Oregon elopement photographer and planner, I’ve put together this Smith Rock elopement guide to help you plan the most perfect day from A to Z!

The Best Time To Elope at Smith Rock

Time of Year

Smith Rock is accessible year-round, but spring and fall are the best seasons for an elopement. The temperatures are mild, and the park is at its most comfortable for exploring.

Summers can be extremely hot, often reaching 90°F or more, making mid-day ceremonies challenging. If you’re planning a summer elopement, opt for a sunrise or sunset ceremony to avoid the heat.

Winter provides a much quieter experience, with fewer crowds and occasional dustings of snow that make the landscape even more dramatic. Just be prepared for chilly mornings and potentially icy trails!

Time of Day

Sunset at Smith Rock is truly the best, although there will be more crowds. The way the sun sets behind the rocks is magical. Sunrise can also be nice, but you have a much shorter window of time and want to get there well before the sun rises. But it can be so much fun trekking the trails with a headlamp ahead of your sunrise ceremony!

Time of Week

Smith Rock is a very popular destination, especially for climbers and hikers. If you want a peaceful experience, I highly recommend eloping on a weekday. Avoid holiday weekends, as they bring even bigger crowds. Parking can fill up quickly, so plan ahead!

How to Get to Smith Rock

The closest airport to Smith Rock is Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM), just 20 minutes away. If you’re flying in from farther away, Portland International Airport (PDX) is about a 3-hour drive.

Smith Rock is about a 35-minute drive from Bend, making it an easy day trip. The main parking lot has a $10/day parking fee, and it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or carpool to ensure you get a spot!

Best Ceremony Locations

Where you choose to say your vows depends on whether you’re inviting guests or keeping it just the two of you. If you’re bringing guests, you must reserve the amphitheater for your ceremony. This designated area has a stunning backdrop and is the only spot where larger ceremonies are allowed. The amphitheater is limited to one wedding per day, so be sure to book early!

If it’s just the two of you, you have a lot more flexibility! With prior approval from a park ranger, you can exchange vows almost anywhere in the park. Some of the best spots include:

• Summit Loop Trail’s Overlook
• Somewhere along the Crooked River Trail
• Misery Ridge Trail may be a challenging hike, but the views are so worth it!

Elopement Permits

Yes, you will most often need a permit for your special event. Please contact the Park Manager or Park Ranger at 541-548-7501 to find out if you need one.

If you’re planning to bring some guests along for your elopement, you’ll need to reserve the North Point Amphitheater. Park policies can change, so it’s always best to check the latest requirements here.

Apply for Your Oregon Marriage License

You and your partner can grab your marriage license at the Deschutes County Clerk’s Office! Before visiting, fill out the marriage license application online. Oregon has a three-day waiting period before a ceremony can take place after a license has been issued! So, be sure to visit the Deschutes County Clerk’s Office on a weekday, at least three days before your elopement ceremony. 

There’s a $55.00 one-time license fee, and you and your partner will need to provide government-issued identification at the time of your visit. Two witnesses and an officiant must be present during the ceremony to make the marriage official! I’m happy to be one of your witnesses, and I’m sure we can find a willing person along the way to sign your marriage license if you’re not planning to bring any guests!

Best Places to Stay Near Smith Rock

Smith Rock Home – Terrebonne, Oregon

Smith Rock Home is a luxurious and modern accommodation with incredible views of Smith Rock. Equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows, a telescope, an outdoor fire pit, a patio, and more, this beautiful Airbnb is perfect for couples looking to elope at Smith Rock State Park.

Terrebonne Lookout Tower – Terrebonne, Oregon

Built with reclaimed wood and inspired by the fire lookout towers of Oregon, Terrebonne Lookout Tower offers a panoramic view of the Cascades with floor-to-ceiling windows and a wrap-around deck. This Airbnb features modern amenities such as an outdoor hot tub, WiFi, and BBQ. It’s a dream for couples looking to unwind and relax during their Bend elopement!

Brasada Ranch – Bend, Oregon

A luxury resort with incredible mountain views, a spa, and fine dining. This high-end retreat offers stunning accommodations, a golf course, and cozy fire pits to relax under the desert sky. Check it out here!

Pointe of Blessing – Terrebonne, Oregon

This cozy home features panoramic views of the high desert landscape. The large windows will give you the best natural light, and the outdoor hot tub overlooking the mountains is an amazing way to celebrate your big day.

Modern Desert Cabin – Terrebonne, Oregon

This is a stylish, minimalistic cabin with large windows, a wood burning stove, a hot tub and overall a peaceful setting near Smith Rock. A great place to unwind after a day of adventure and stay close to your main location!

Smith Rock Oasis – Terrebonne, Oregon

A charming and cozy cabin nestled in the heart of the desert, offering easy access to Smith Rock and stunning sunset views from the property and their outdoor hot tub! Take a look!

Camping Near Smith Rock

If you love the outdoors, camping is also an option! The Smith Rock Bivouac Area is the closest spot to camp, but nearby campgrounds, like Skull Hollow Campground, are just a few miles away.

Smith Rock Elopement Vendors

Hiring high-quality, local elopement vendors can help bring your dream ceremony to life! While hiring amazing local vendors isn’t necessary, they will undoubtedly help ease the stress of your big day. If you plan to elope in Smith Rock, hiring local vendors familiar with the area will ensure your elopement goes off without a hitch! 

When hiring vendors, research and read reviews, chat with them over the phone, and thoroughly read contracts before signing. If you need help determining which vendors would be the right fit for your celebration, I’m happy to share suggestions with you as your elopement photographer! Here are a few of my favorites to help you get started with the planning process:

• Florals: Woodland Floral | Two Lovers Flowers | The Posie Shoppe | High Desert Florals
• HMUA: Edge Hair & Makeup | Makeup Mafia Weddings | Artistry by Kate
• Bakery: Dreamin’ Desserts | Ida’s Cupcake Cafe
• Officiant: Rev. Chris Lewis | Weddings with Heart | Wendy Duncan Ministries
• Catering: Miere Catering | Back to the Tables  | Bethlyn’s Global Fusion | La Paella Bend
• Rentals: Heirloom’s & Company | Curated Event Rentals

Elopement Activity Ideas

To make the most out of your big day, I really recommend doing something fun and meaningful together to celebrate! These are some ideas of things to do around Smith Rock and Bend, OR!

• Hike the Misery Ridge Trail for jaw-dropping views
• Go rock climbing on world-famous routes
• Walk along the Crooked River for a peaceful, scenic experience
• You can also go rafting or kayaking on the Crooked River!
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the high desert
• Visit a local brewery in Bend
• Watch the sunset at the park’s rim viewpoints
• Take a scenic drive along the Cascade Lakes Highway
• Try paddleboarding on the Deschutes River
• Soak in the natural hot springs near Bend
• Learn to rock climb At Smith Rock

There are many, many more things you could do in Oregon, depending on the kind of experience you’re after and how long you’re planning to stay in the area. I’m happy to make recommendations for all my eloping couples!

Sample Smith Rock Elopement Timeline

4:30 AM – Photo coverage begins with getting ready photos & detail shots at your Smith Rock Airbnb!

6:00 AM – Hike at Smith Rock & take Sunrise portraits.

7:00 AM – Intimate vow exchange with family & friends!

7:30 AM – Picnic breakfast at Smith Rock.

10:30 AM  – Take a mid-day break.

4:30 PM – Head to Bend for a craft brew experience at Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room!

6:00 PM – Private Sunset portraits back at Smith Rock. 

7:30 PM – Catered dinner at Airbnb. 

9:00 PM – Bonfire & S’mores under the stars!

10:30 PM – Photo coverage ends.

Your Elopement Packing List

While planning your elopement, make sure to list all the items you’ll need to pack for your adventure! Here’s a list of elopement packing essentials to get you started:

• Important travel documents such as IDs and Passports
• Marriage License
• Permits
• Water Bottle & Water
• Snacks
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Bug Spray
• Extra Socks
• Boots/Shoes With Good Tread
• Wedding Attire
• Vow Books
• Rings
• Ring Box
• Wedding Attire & Accessories
• Perfume/Cologne
• Makeup & Hair Supplies
• Garment Bags
• Celebratory Drinks 
• Portable Speaker
• Adventure Gear
• Backpack(s)
• Rain Jacket
• Jacket 
• Warm Layers 
• Hand Warmers
• Gloves/Mittens
• Headlamps
• Umbrellas
• Blanket

Ready to Plan Your Adventurous Smith Rock Elopement Day?

Hi, I’m Erica, an Oregon elopement photographer! If you and your partner are looking to plan an epic elopement, I’m here to capture a day you’ll never forget! Be sure to check out my Oregon elopement packages and reach out to me via my inquiry form here! 

If you’re interested in learning more about eloping in and around Oregon, check out my blog – How To Elope in Oregon! I can’t wait to explore this beautiful state while celebrating you and your partner’s beautiful love story!

You may also like this Smith Rock Engagement Session Inspiration and this Engagement Session, as well!