Sparks Lake is one of my favorite lakes along the Cascade Lakes Highway. This pristine alpine lake offers epic views of South Sister, Broken Top, and Mt. Bachelor, making it a beautiful backdrop for your elopement. It’s the perfect blend of accessibility and adventure, making it a top-tier choice for free-spirited couples who want a jaw-dropping elopement experience without an extreme hike.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding day that feels peaceful, adventurous, and totally you, then keep reading! As an experienced Oregon elopement photographer and planner, I’ve put together this Sparks Lake elopement from the best time of the year to permits and places to stay.

The Best Time to Elope at Sparks Lake

Time of Year

Sparks Lake is only accessible by vehicle from Memorial Day through mid-November. Once the snow hits, the Cascade Lakes Highway closes for the season, making the lake accessible only by snowmobile, cross-country skis, or snowshoes. If you love a quiet, snowy adventure, a winter elopement here could be downright magical, but keep in mind that access is much trickier!

For the most comfortable elopement experience, aim for late June to early October when the weather is warm, the trails are clear, and the lake is at its most vibrant. Be aware that mosquitoes are fierce in June and July, so come prepared with bug spray!

Time of Day

I absolutely recommend early morning (pre-dawn) if you want to avoid crowds. However, sunset is also lovely, although you might have a few more people around. The light at Sparks is really best just as the sun rises or right as the sun sets and a little after, so that’s something to keep in mind. 

Time of Week

I always recommend eloping on a weekday, especially during the busy summer months. Holiday weekends often extend people’s stay into the Friday before and Monday after, so please keep that in mind. You definitely want to plan to carpool if you’re inviting any guests to your elopement, as there is limited parking and it fills up early. 

How to Get to Sparks Lake

If you’re traveling from out of state, the best airport options are:

• Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) – 20 minutes from Bend (closest option!)
• Portland International Airport (PDX) – About 3.5-4 hours from Bend

RDM is much more convenient, but PDX offers more flight options if you’re coming from further away. Either way, renting a car is the best way to get around and explore the area! Redmond has on-site rental car pickups, or you can rent a car for airport pickup through services such as Turo!

From Bend, Sparks Lake is about a 40-minute drive along the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway. The road is fully paved until you reach the turn off to the lake, but the last stretch to the parking area is a very bumpy & rutted out dirt road, so keep that in mind when choosing your vehicle!

Pro Tip: If you’re eloping in late fall or early spring, check road conditions before heading out. Snow and ice can make some sections tricky!

Best Ceremony Locations at Sparks Lake

Sparks Lake has a variety of scenic spots for your elopement ceremony and photos. If you’re planning to invite a small group of loved ones, you may want to stick to areas that are relatively close to the parking lot.

There are some gorgeous pebble beaches and wide-open viewpoints where you can exchange vows while following LNT practices without damaging delicate vegetation. The Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail also provides easy access to stunning spots with panoramic mountain views!

If it’s just the two of you, there are many absolutely breathtaking locations for your elopement. I love helping my couples find the best spot to suit their needs, so reach out if you need help planning!

Elopement Permits

As of right now, you don’t need a special use permit to elope at Sparks Lake. However, if you’re planning a larger event of 75+ people, you will need to get one from the Deschutes National Forest. I can help you figure out if you need one!

You do need a Northwest Forest Pass ($5 per day pass or $30 per annual pass) to enter the area.

Apply for Your Oregon Marriage License

You and your partner can grab your marriage license at the Deschutes County Clerk’s Office or any other county office in the state. 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 (or your officiant), and I’m sure we can find a willing person or two along the way to sign your marriage license if you’re not planning to bring any guests!

Best Places to Stay Near Sparks Lake

Camping Near Sparks Lake

If you’re down for a more rugged experience, Soda Creek Campground is a great option nearby! You can find more details and reserve a spot here! There are a few other campground options nearby as well.

Tetherow Resort

Tetherow Resort is a modern, upscale lodge with insane mountain views. It is not too far from Sparks Lake and has a golf course, spa, hot tubs, and dog-friendly rooms.

Sunriver Resort

Sunriver Resort is another modern yet rustic lodge/resort that offers guests a golf course, spa, private cabins, as well as pools and access to fun outdoor activities.

Private Luxury Lodge in Bend, OR

A gorgeous, light-filled cabin with large windows and a cozy fireplace, perfect for unwinding after your elopement. See it here!

A Private Home at Bachelor View

A charming home nestled among the trees, with the National Forest just outside the door and great breweries minutes down the road. Check it out!

A Riverfront Home in Bend, OR

This stunning cabin offers a stunning interior and large windows that will give you tons of natural light. It also has breathtaking river views from its outdoor hot tub! Take a look!

Modern Retreat at Central Bend

A sleek, stylish getaway with a minimalist design, perfect for couples who love a modern touch while being close to nature. View here!

Elopement Activity Ideas

There’s no shortage of fun things to do around Sparks Lake and the nearby Bend!

• Paddle boarding or kayaking on Sparks Lake
• Hiking the Ray Atkeson Memorial Trail for stunning views
• Exploring the nearby Todd Lake for more alpine scenery
• Visiting the Lava River Cave for a unique underground adventure
• Biking the scenic trails around Sunriver
• Enjoying craft beer at Deschutes Brewery
• Horseback riding at Sunriver Stables
• Floating down the Deschutes River
• Skiing or snowboarding (winter) or mountain biking and zip lining (summer) at Mt. Bachelor
• Visiting Tumalo Falls for an epic waterfall adventure
• Stargazing at Sparks Lake for an unforgettable night under the stars

There are many, many more things you could do in Oregon, and it depends 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!

Sparks Lake 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 Sparks Lake, hiring local vendors familiar with Oregon 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 | Porter Floral
• 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

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

Sample 8-Hour Sparks Lake Elopement Timeline

5:30-6:00 AM – Photo coverage begins with the last getting-ready touches at Soda Creek Campground

6:00-7:00 AM – First Look and portraits

7:00-7:40 AM – Travel and hike to the ceremony spot

7:45-8:15 AM – Elopement ceremony

8:15-8:30 AM – Sign license/celebration with guests

8:30-9:30 AM – Formal Portraits with Family

9:30-10 AM – Walk back to car/change

10-12 PM – Go paddleboarding to celebrate the elopement!

-Mid-Day Break-

5:30-7:30 PM – Dinner/Games – Photo coverage ends.

Take a look at Rose and Alex’s Sparks Lake elopement following this timeline!

Ready To Plan An Adventure Elopement at Sparks Lake?

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!