Colorado State Park Weddings: A Full Guide

Colorado State Park Micro Weddings + Elopements

Colorado state park weddings are often overlooked, making them one of the best-kept secrets for your intimate wedding or elopement. With 42 stunning parks offering everything from sweeping mountain views to peaceful plains, there’s no shortage of beautiful locations for your ceremony. Over 11 million visitors explore these parks each year, but few realize the incredible wedding venues they offer, including amphitheaters, scenic overlooks, and quiet pavilions.

Whether you’re drawn to towering mountains, serene lakes, rushing waterfalls, or lush meadows, Colorado’s state parks provide the perfect setting to say ‘I do.’ In this guide, I’ll share what makes these hidden gems so great for hosting your wedding day, the best Colorado state parks to choose from, and more. If you’re looking to celebrate your love in a natural setting, a Colorado state park wedding could be the dream intimate venue you’ve been searching for.

Why Have a Colorado State Park Wedding

When to Have Your Colorado State Park Wedding

Where to Have Your Colorado State Park Wedding

How To Plan Your Colorado State Park Wedding

Why Have a Colorado State Park Wedding

Beautiful Scenery

Colorado state parks showcase some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state, offering everything from mountains and rivers to meadows and forests. Whether you’re looking for a remote location or desire the amenities of a nearby city, these parks provide a beautiful range of settings to match your wedding day vision.

Many State Parks Within a Short Drive from Denver

With 41 state parks open to the public (and one reserved for hunting), there are plenty of wedding options within a short drive from Denver. Many parks even offer lodging, including cabins, yurts, or campsites, allowing you to turn your celebration into a full wedding weekend.

Micro Wedding + Elopement Ceremony Options

State parks are perfect for intimate celebrations. Many have affordable, private reservable spaces you can use for your ceremony, reception, or both. While these venues are more rustic and natural compared to traditional wedding venues, their simplicity allows the stunning scenery to shine and keeps the focus on what truly matters: your love story.

Accessible Wedding Locations

Many Colorado state parks offer ADA-accessible wedding locations, so your family and friends can easily be part of your day, no matter their mobility needs. These parks make it easier for everyone to enjoy your celebration in the heart of nature.

Less Crowded Than National Parks

Colorado’s state parks are less crowded than its national parks, offering a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere for your celebration. As a bonus, you’ll also face less competition when it comes to securing permits and reservations since these hidden gems are often less well-known than the nearby national parks.

More Affordable Permits and Entrance Fees

Compared to national parks, state parks typically have lower reservation costs and entrance fees. These budget-friendly options allow you to save on venue costs and devote more to personalizing your intimate wedding day.

When to Have Your Colorado State Park Wedding

Many Colorado state parks have limited reservation windows, typically from May through October. These months tend to offer the best weather for outdoor weddings. However, it’s important to check with the specific park you’re interested in, as different parks may have different reservation windows.

Read on to learn about what you can expect from each season in Colorado and for information regarding specific availability at Colorado’s best state park wedding venues. From snowy mountain landscapes to the golden hues of fall, the season you choose will help shape the atmosphere of your intimate wedding day.

Summer Weddings In Colorado State Parks

Lush greenery and colorful wildflowers take center stage during the summer months. All state parks are typically open during this time and available for wedding reservations, unless affected by external circumstances such as special events or weather-related closures. From late May through June, the landscape bursts into color as the snowmelt fuels vibrant growth. The streams are full, and wildflowers provide natural decor for your wedding. The temperatures during the day are mild and comfortable, with the added bonus of long, sun-filled evenings.

As the season moves into July and August, the weather remains warm and dry, though afternoon thunderstorms around 3 PM are not uncommon. While temperatures may rise, the cool, crisp air at higher elevations in Colorado’s state parks makes late summer an ideal choice. Just be sure to plan for warm days and cooler evenings for your Colorado state park wedding.

Fall Weddings in Colorado State Parks

Fall in Colorado state parks is a true delight if you love crisp mountain air and vibrant autumn colors. Most state parks keep their wedding reservation windows open during this season. From September through October, the landscape is dotted with golden hues as the aspen trees turn a brilliant gold. This is a prime time for leaf-peeping, and the stunning views provide the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.

Colorado state parks like Golden Gate Canyon offer breathtaking aspen groves, where the golden leaves contrast beautifully with the rich evergreens. The vibrant colors add a touch of warmth to your celebration, creating an inviting atmosphere for your ceremony and reception. The cooler fall temperatures make for a comfortable outdoor experience, with just the right amount of chill in the air. It’s the perfect season for a cozy and picturesque Colorado state park wedding.

Winter Weddings in Colorado State Parks

Winter in Colorado state parks offers a serene and magical atmosphere for your wedding, but it’s important to check the specific guidelines of each park, as not all parks allow wedding reservations during this season. You’ll need to confirm the availability of your chosen location before making any final decisions.

From November to February (and realistically into May), Colorado’s state parks transform into a peaceful, snow-covered winter wonderland. This time of year tends to be less crowded, giving you more privacy for your celebration. 

Winter also means shorter days, so scheduling your ceremony earlier will ensure you take advantage of the best natural light. Many Colorado state parks also offer nearby winter activities like skiing, sleigh rides, and snowshoeing. Just make sure to layer up, wear proper footwear, and be prepared for any potential weather-related challenges, such as road closures or icy trails.

If you’re interested in learning more about activities you can include to make your Colorado state park wedding one-of-a-kind, check out my blog linked below!

Spring Weddings in Colorado State Parks

Spring in Colorado state parks can be quite unpredictable, with most reservable wedding locations only opening up toward the end of the season. From March through late May, the weather is often a mix of lingering winter conditions and the first hints of warmer days. You might experience heavy, wet snow that could lead to travel delays or road closures. This is also Colorado’s snowiest season, so expect icy trails and muddy conditions in some parks, especially during early spring.

However, there’s something uniquely charming about hosting your intimate wedding during spring. As the snow melts and the mountain passes begin to open around April, the parks transform into lush, vibrant landscapes, offering a beautiful and unique setting for your Colorado state park wedding. If you’re up for a little adventure and don’t mind some mud, a spring wedding in Colorado’s state parks can be an unforgettable experience. Just be sure to plan ahead for the season’s quirks, like unpredictable weather, and you’ll be set for a memorable Colorado wedding day.

Where to Have Your Colorado State Park Wedding

Golden Gate Canyon State Park

• Rental Availability: The Red Barn Group Picnic Area is available from May through October, daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Price: The Red Barn Group Picnic Area rents for $150 per day Monday through Friday and $200 per day Saturday and Sunday. You and your guests will also need to pay $12 per vehicle or $4 per individual to enter the park.

Golden Gate Canyon State Park, just 45 minutes from Denver, provides a peaceful escape with 12,000 acres of natural beauty. From its scenic trails to sweeping views of the Continental Divide, this state park is an incredible option for your Colorado state park wedding. The park’s 35 miles of trails, along with its abundant wildlife—including golden eagles, black bears, and foxes—give it a woodland feel.

The Red Barn Group Picnic Area is the only designated wedding location in the park and offers a rustic and inviting atmosphere. The area includes two historic barns that feature electrical outlets, lighting, and covered picnic tables, making it both practical and charming. With space to accommodate up to 100 seated guests and ample parking for 25 vehicles, this venue balances simplicity with functionality.

Fall weddings here are especially stunning, thanks to the golden aspens. While your ceremony and reception will take place at the Red Barn, Panorama Point and other scenic spots within the park are worth exploring for your wedding portraits. A permit must be applied for at least two weeks in advance to take photos throughout the park. However, I am happy to obtain this permit on your behalf.

To check on availability of the Red Barn for your wedding day, contact the park office directly at cpwshop.com or by calling 303-582-3707. 

Also, nearby you’ll find several VRBO/Airbnb options—like this one here—that offer a private space for you and your loved ones to enjoy time together in the days surrounding your wedding celebration. 

Cheyenne Mountain State Park

• Rental Availability: The Prairie Falcon Amphitheater + Prairie Skipper Pavilion are available from May through October.

• Price: Call the visitor center at 719-576-2016 for current rates and packages. You and your guests will also need to pay $10 per vehicle to enter the park.

Cheyenne Mountain State Park is located just 1.5 hours from Denver, right outside of Colorado Springs. Nestled at the eastern base of Cheyenne Mountain, this 2,700+-acre park features meadows, mountain views, and 29 miles of trails, making it a stunning option for your Colorado state park wedding. Its proximity to Colorado Springs means easy access to vendors, lodging, restaurants, and famous landmarks like Garden of the Gods.

The park has two designated wedding venues to choose from:

Prairie Falcon Amphitheater – This outdoor amphitheater has a capacity of 160 guests and features natural rock-step seating and direct trail access.

Prairie Skipper Pavilion – This outdoor event space has a capacity of 200 guests and boasts breathtaking views of both the city and the surrounding park.

Both venues are available from May through October, and reservations require a Special Activity Agreement, which must be submitted and approved by the park manager. Be sure to contact the park directly at 719-576-2016 or email dnr_cheyenne.park@state.co.us to confirm availability and complete the required paperwork.

Roxborough State Park

• Rental Availability: Both Fountain Valley Overlook and Lyons Overlook are available daily from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Price: Fountain Valley Overlook rents for $75 for two hours from Monday through Friday and $150 for two hours on Saturday and Sunday. Lyons Overlook rents for $150 for two hours from Monday through Friday and $300 for two hours on Saturday and Sunday. Each reservation requires payment of a $10 reservation fee and $55 Special Activity Agreement fee. You and your guests will also need to pay $10 per vehicle to enter the park.

Just 40 minutes southwest of downtown Denver, Roxborough State Park offers an impressive but accessible setting for your Colorado state park wedding. This 3,400+-acre park is known for its dramatic red rock formations, diverse plant life, and wildlife ranging from mule deer to black bears. The park’s unique geology and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal spot for your intimate ceremony.

The park offers two designated wedding venues:

Fountain Valley Overlook – Located a short walk from the Visitor Center, this spot showcases the park’s iconic geologic formations. With space for up to 25 guests, this cleared area provides an intimate setting surrounded by nature.

Lyons Overlook – Situated a half-mile down the Fountain Valley Trail, this venue features a wooden deck with stunning views of the Fountain Valley formation. With space for up to 25 guests, this overlook is ideal for smaller ceremonies with a dramatic backdrop.

Both locations are exclusively available for wedding ceremonies and cannot be used for your reception. If you’re planning a weekend wedding, it’s important to note that reservations do not guarantee general park entry, as Roxborough often reaches parking capacity. Encourage your guests to arrive early to ensure smooth entry.

For availability and reservations, contact the park at 303-973-3959 or email Roxborough.Park@state.co.us. Be sure to confirm details, as seasonal closures and policies may vary.

Lory State Park

• Rental Availability: Soldier Canyon, Timber, and South Eltuck are available daily from 5:00 AM to sunset.

• Price: Soldier Canyon rents for $150 per two-hour increment from Monday through Friday and $300 per two-hour increment on Saturday and Sunday. Timber Group Picnic Area rents for $100 per two-hour increment from Monday through Friday and $150 per two-hour increment on Saturday and Sunday. South Eltuck Group Picnic Area rents for $75 per two-hour increment from Monday through Friday and $125 per two-hour increment on Saturday and Sunday. Each reservation requires payment of a $10 reservation fee. You and your guests will also need to pay $10 per vehicle to enter the park.

Lory State Park, located just 1.5 hours from Denver, near Fort Collins, offers a peaceful setting for your Colorado state park wedding. The park is known for its 1500 acres of diverse landscapes including meadows, forests, and mountain views.

The park features three designated wedding venues:

Soldier Canyon Group Picnic Area – This spacious area can accommodate up to 100 guests. It’s a popular spot for larger weddings, equipped with covered picnic tables and grills for a casual, relaxed experience. The nearby Soldier Canyon waterfall adds a special touch to spring and summer weddings. To reserve the Soldier Canyon Group Picnic Area, call the park office at 970-493-1623.

Timber Group Picnic Area – This private venue, surrounded by cottonwood trees and rolling hills, is perfect for smaller ceremonies. It offers a secluded setting for up to 50 guests, complete with restrooms, fire rings, and picnic tables.

South Eltuck Group Picnic Area – This venue accommodates up to 50 guests with stunning views of Horsetooth Reservoir. The location includes covered picnic tables and features a beautiful landscape that’s perfect for photos.

For all venues, a $10 reservation fee and a Special Activity Agreement are required. To reserve the Timber or South Eltuck group picnic areas, please visit cpwshop.com or call 1-800-244-5613​.

Mueller State Park

• Rental Availability: Call for availability and wedding information. Potential ceremony locations include the Amphitheater, Peak View Pond, Grouse Mountain, or Elk Meadow.

• Price: Call for pricing.

Mueller State Park, located just outside of Colorado Springs, offers an expansive and scenic setting for your Colorado state park wedding. The park provides a stunning backdrop for your celebration, with 5000+ acres of diverse landscapes, including spring-fed meadows, forests, and granite formations. Whether you’re drawn to the dense aspen and conifer forests or the sweeping grasslands, Mueller State Park’s scenery creates a serene environment for your ceremony.

The Outdoor Amphitheater is the main wedding venue, featuring a wooden platform and bench seating for up to 100 guests. Nestled among aspen and conifer trees, this venue offers a peaceful setting overlooking Pikes Peak. While other locations within the park, such as Peak View Pond, Grouse Mountain, and Elk Meadow, offer additional scenic options, you’ll need to contact the park directly for more detailed information and wedding availability.

For more information on availability, pricing, and to secure your reservation, contact Mueller State Park directly at 719-687-2366.

Castlewood Canyon State Park

• Rental Availability: Bridge Canyon Overlook, Pikes Peak Amphitheater, and Covered Shelters 1, 2, & 3 are available daily, sunrise to sunset.

• Price: Bridge Canyon Overlook rents for $150 for two hours from Monday through Friday and $300 for two hours on Saturday and Sunday. Pikes Peak Amphitheater rents for $150 for two hours from Monday through Friday and $300 for two hours on Saturday and Sunday. Covered Shelters 1 & 3 rent for $100 per day from Monday through Friday and $150 per day on Saturday and Sunday. Covered Shelter 2 rents for $75 per day Monday through Friday and $125 per day on Saturday and Sunday. You and your guests will also need to pay $10 per vehicle to enter the park.

Castlewood Canyon State Park offers diverse landscapes, including deep canyons, rugged rock formations, and expansive views of the Front Range and Pikes Peak—just 45 minutes from downtown Denver. The park spans 2,600+ acres in the Black Forest region and boasts open meadows and dense forests.

This Colorado state park features several wedding venues for ceremonies and receptions:

Bridge Canyon Overlook – This venue accommodates up to 60 guests and features an uncovered area with a deck overlooking the canyon, perfect for your intimate wedding ceremony. Seating is not provided, but you are welcome to bring your own chairs. 

Pikes Peak Amphitheater – The Pikes Peak Amphitheater offers an elevated view of the park and surrounding areas, including Pikes Peak. With split-log benches and room for up to 120 guests, it’s ideal for those seeking extra space and expansive mountain views. 

Covered Shelters 1, 2, and 3
These sheltered areas offer an ideal space for hosting your post-ceremony gathering or reception.

• Shelters 1 and 3 can each accommodate up to 66 guests and feature amenities such as charcoal grills, electricity, and a volleyball court. These shelters provide easy access to restrooms and a playground.
• Shelter 2 is adjoined to Shelter 1 and also accommodates 66 guests with the same amenities.

Each of these venues offers something unique, whether you prefer the dramatic canyon views of the Bridge Canyon Overlook or the panoramic views from Pikes Peak Amphitheater. To reserve your venue or learn more, reach out to the park office at 303-688-5242. Keep in mind that reservations can only be made for events occurring within the current calendar year.

Staunton State Park

• Rental Availability: Marmot Burrow Amphitheater, Davis Ponds Group Picnic Area, and Ranch Hand Group Picnic Area are all available daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Price: Marmot Burrow Amphitheater rents for $90 per day. Davis Ponds Group Picnic Area rents for $90 per day. Ranch Hand Group Picnic Area rents for $160 per day. Each reservation requires payment of a $10 reservation fee. You and your guests will also need to pay $10 per vehicle to enter the park.

Staunton State Park, located just under an hour from Denver, offers a rustic and serene setting for your Colorado state park wedding. With stunning views of Lionshead Mountain, the park provides a peaceful backdrop for your ceremony and reception. The park’s 3800 acres of diverse landscapes include lush forests, meadows, and tranquil ponds, making it a perfect spot for an intimate wedding day in the great outdoors.

The park features three wedding venues:

Marmot Burrow Amphitheater – This outdoor amphitheater offers a charming rustic atmosphere, with a log archway that measures 12 feet tall and 23 feet wide. It can accommodate up to 60 guests with rustic bench seating and includes views of Lionshead Mountain. For availability and reservations, visit cpwshop.com or call 1-800-244-5613.

Davis Ponds Group Picnic Area – This small pavilion offers a picturesque view of Lionshead Mountain from the Davis Ponds fishing lakes. With space for up to 35 guests, it provides an intimate setting for your post-ceremony gathering or reception. 

Ranch Hand Group Picnic Area – This space can accommodate up to 75 seated guests for your post-ceremony reception or gathering. Located within a lovely part of the park, it offers ample amenities including a horseshoe pit and volleyball court.

For all venues, you’ll need to secure a reservation through cpwshop.com or by calling the park at 1-800-244-5613. 

How to Plan Your Colorado State Park Wedding

Check Availability & Pick Your Location

When planning your Colorado state park wedding, the first step is to check availability and pick your location. Each state park has its own set of rules and guidelines, so it’s important to gather all the details before making your decision. Here’s a checklist of key things to consider as you narrow your options:

• How many guests are allowed?
  All parks have limits on the number of guests allowed at each venue. Make sure the space you’re considering can accommodate your guest list.
• How accessible is the location?
  Check if the location is ADA-compliant and accessible for guests with mobility needs. This is especially important for guests with wheelchairs, strollers, or other mobility devices.
• What kind of food is allowed? Can I bring in alcohol?
  Each park has different rules regarding catering and alcohol. Some parks may allow outside catering or food trucks, while others have restrictions. Make sure you know what’s allowed so you can plan accordingly.
• Are restrooms nearby?
  If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, consider the availability of nearby restrooms. Some parks have restroom facilities nearby, but others may require you to provide your own portable restrooms or head to other locations within the park.
• What decor is permitted?
  State parks are naturally beautiful, but certain decorations may be prohibited to preserve the environment. When you call the park office, ask about any restrictions on decor, such as the use of candles, flower petals, or signage.

As always, I’m here to guide you through the planning process, answer questions about specific parks, and assist with logistical details like permits and vendor recommendations. If you need help figuring out which vendors to hire for your state park micro wedding or elopement, head to my other guide linked below.

Get Your Colorado Marriage License

Securing your marriage license is an essential step when planning your Colorado state park wedding. Each county in Colorado has its own rules and regulations, so it’s important to check with the county where you’ll be marrying to ensure you meet their requirements. Some counties only allow residents to reserve appointments, so be sure to confirm if that applies to you.

If you’re not a resident of the county where your wedding will take place and they require residency, don’t worry—there are plenty of other counties, such as Denver, where marriage licenses are available to all, regardless of residency. Just make sure you check the specific rules for both the county where you’re marrying and where you plan to get your license.

The application process is simple and can often be started online, but both parties will need to appear in person to finalize it. If the paperwork feels a bit overwhelming, another option is to apply for your marriage license in your home state before or after your Colorado state park wedding.

For more details on obtaining your marriage license in Colorado, check out my other blog linked below.

Colorado State Park Wedding Permits

When planning your Colorado state park wedding, it’s important to obtain the necessary permits. Some parks require a Special Activity Agreement (SAA) or commercial use permit for your wedding ceremony or related activities. The specific permit requirements can vary depending on the park, your chosen location, and the size of your group. It’s always best to contact your chosen park directly to confirm details and make sure you have everything in place.

Each park has its own guidelines for weddings and events, so it’s important to do your research early. While some locations, like wilderness areas, may have stricter regulations, many parks offer a straightforward process for obtaining permits. Simply reach out to the park, explain your plans, and they’ll guide you through the application process, including any associated costs. Keep in mind that some parks may take time to process permits, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

I can also help with this process by reaching out to the park on your behalf and ensuring that all the necessary paperwork is taken care of. The sooner you confirm your permits, the sooner you can relax and focus on celebrating your love surrounded by Colorado’s natural beauty.

Colorado State Park Entrance Fees

Many Colorado state parks charge entrance fees, which typically cost $10-$12 per vehicle or $4 for individual day passes. When planning your Colorado state park wedding, keep in mind that your guests will need to pay the park entrance fee. However, some parks, like Staunton State Park, offer an “Event Pass” option, which allows you to pay for all your guests’ entrance fees as part of your rental contract.

To take advantage of this option, ask for an Event Pass when reserving your venue. Park staff will count the number of vehicles attending your wedding, issue a pass for each vehicle, and charge the total to your credit card at the end of the day.

Additionally, vehicles with Colorado Disabled Veteran (DV) or Colorado Purple Heart license plates are admitted free of charge without needing a pass.

Practice Leave No Trace Principles for Your Colorado State Park Wedding

When planning your Colorado state park wedding, it’s essential to respect the environment by practicing Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines help minimize your impact on the stunning landscapes of Colorado’s state parks, ensuring they remain pristine for future generations. The 7 principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) are especially important when hosting a Colorado state park wedding, as events like these can unintentionally leave waste or other damage behind. Here’s how you can apply these principles of outdoor ethics to your Colorado state park wedding:

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Research the regulations and any seasonal restrictions for the park where you’ll be hosting your wedding. Understanding and complying with park regulations helps ensure you’re not disturbing sensitive ecosystems throughout your celebration.

2. Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and durable surfaces when moving throughout the park. Doing so helps preserve Colorado’s delicate ecosystems and ensures the park remains beautiful for future visitors.

3. Dispose of Waste Properly: This principle is especially important for Colorado state park weddings, where decor or invasive plant species might be left behind. Properly dispose of all trash, including biodegradable items like flower petals and food scraps, which can harm wildlife or disrupt the park’s ecosystem. Your goal should be to leave the park the same way—or even better—than you found it, so make sure to clean up thoroughly.

4. Leave What You Find: When decorating, opt for nature-inspired décor and refrain from leaving behind anything non-natural or harmful. Respect the wildlife and natural resources of the park by leaving rocks, plants, and other natural elements undisturbed. Avoid introducing non-native plants or materials, as well as disrupting the landscape.

5. Minimize Campfire Impact: If you’re planning a campfire as part of your celebration, make sure to follow the park’s fire rules. Most state parks have fire bans during certain seasons, so check for restrictions ahead of time. Use designated fire pits, and ensure all fires are fully extinguished before leaving.

6. Respect Wildlife: Colorado’s state parks are home to a wide range of wildlife. Be sure to respect their space by not feeding animals and keeping food secured to avoid attracting them. Always maintain a safe distance from wildlife to ensure their safety and your own.

7. Be Considerate of Other Visitors: State parks are shared spaces enjoyed by many. Make sure your celebration respects other visitors who are there to enjoy their own outdoor experiences. Being considerate of other visitors preserves the tranquility of the park for everyone.

By following these 7 Leave No Trace principles, you’ll help protect the integrity of Colorado’s state parks and ensure that your Colorado state park wedding doesn’t negatively impact the environment. These guidelines will preserve the parks’ natural beauty for future couples to enjoy and celebrate in.

For more tips on how to host an eco-friendly Colorado state park wedding, be sure to check out my other blog:

Let’s Plan Your Colorado State Park Wedding

Colorado state parks provide an incredible opportunity to celebrate your intimate wedding surrounded by the state’s natural beauty. From fall’s golden aspens to summer’s wildflowers, these parks offer a variety of settings to match your vision. With detailed insights on why a state park wedding might be perfect for you, when to plan your day, and the diverse venues available, you can choose a location that feels perfect for your celebration.

As you start planning, remember the importance of permits, marriage licenses, and practicing Leave No Trace principles to preserve these stunning spaces. Whether you’re dreaming of a small, rustic elopement ceremony or an intimate micro wedding with loved ones, Colorado’s state parks provide endless possibilities for a once-in-a-lifetime day. When you and your partner are ready to start planning your Colorado state park wedding, I’m here to guide you every step of the way! Click the button below to start the conversation.