The Adventure Bride’s Guide to the Top Adventure Elopement Locations in South Dakota
Hey Adventure Brides!
This week’s blog post will cover one of my very favorite but also most underrated states in the US when it comes to adventure elopements.
I’ve spent the last three months in this gorgeous state exploring and mapping out some beautiful places and taking adventure weddings in the meantime. So I’ll be spilling my favorite spots in this post!
South Dakota's diverse landscapes offer a breathtaking backdrop for couples seeking an adventurous and unforgettable elopement experience. From rugged Badlands and towering Black Hills to serene canyons and majestic waterfalls, there's no shortage of stunning locations to exchange vows and begin your new adventure together. In this guide, we'll explore the top destinations for eloping in South Dakota, ensuring your special day is filled with beauty, romance, and unforgettable moments.
1. Custer State Park
Sylvan Lake, Custer State Park by Dye the Knot Adventure Weddings & Elopements
Nestled in the heart of the Black Hills, Custer State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its towering granite spires, lush forests, and sparkling lakes, this scenic paradise provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic elopement ceremony surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Tons of wildlife reside in this beautiful park, including but definitely not limited to bison, elk, mule deer, geese near the lakes, bears, mountain lions, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep.
Multiple gorgeous lakes can also be found in this park, and most are surrounded by towering rocks that you can climb on for extra special sunset photos.
2. Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park by Dye the Knot Adventure Weddings & Elopements
Step into a world of otherworldly beauty at Badlands National Park, where rugged rock formations, colorful cliffs, and vast prairies converge to create a landscape unlike any other. Exchange vows against the backdrop of dramatic rock formations and sweeping vistas, capturing the raw beauty and untamed spirit of the American West.
Many exotic wildlife species also reside here - bighorn sheep, prairie dogs, pronghorn deer, and much more!
The fun part about the Badlands is that there is something for every level of hiker. If you’d rather just drive and appreciate the scenery and get out for photos at certain points or overlooks that speak to you, you can. If you’re an avid hiker who wants an uphill challenge, there’s definitely plenty of those trails. If you’re an average hiker, or want to do a mixture of both, you can!
3. Black Hills National Forest
Black Hills National Forest, SD
Explore the enchanting beauty of the Black Hills National Forest, where towering pine trees, cascading waterfalls, and meandering streams set the stage for a magical elopement adventure. Whether you choose to exchange vows in a secluded forest glade or beside a tranquil mountain stream, the Black Hills offer endless opportunities for romance and exploration.
The forest spreads over Wyoming and South Dakota, so you can definitely pick your favorite place to stay while eloping there!
4. Spearfish Canyon
Spearfish Falls, SD
Escape to the serene beauty of Spearfish Canyon, a hidden gem nestled in the northern Black Hills. Towering limestone cliffs, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls create a picturesque backdrop for an intimate elopement ceremony, where the sounds of nature serenade you as you say "I do."
There are several waterfalls, Spearfish Falls being the biggest, but it’s fun to go “chasing waterfalls” during adventure elopements and get your photo with all of them, even the little ones! Spearfish is beautiful all year round, but especially in the summer and fall when the wildlife and leaves are all out and colorful.
There are plenty of places to camp here, as well as cabins and lodges for tourists if you choose to utilize those commodities, or if you have some family or friends hoping to attend your ceremony.
5. Palisades State Park
Palisades State Park, SD
Immerse yourselves in the tranquil beauty of Palisades State Park, where rugged cliffs, lush forests, and the sparkling waters of the Big Sioux River create a serene oasis for your elopement ceremony. Say your vows against the backdrop of towering rock formations and winding river trails, surrounded by the quiet beauty of nature.
Whether you're exchanging vows amidst the towering rock formations of Badlands National Park, embracing the tranquility of Spearfish Canyon, or celebrating your love in the heart of Sioux Falls, South Dakota offers a wealth of stunning locations for your elopement adventure. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and natural beauty, South Dakota is the perfect destination for couples seeking an unforgettable and truly unique elopement experience.
Hopefully I’ve given you a good glimpse into the beautifully underrated state of South Dakota - and understand why this state would be the perfect place for an adventure elopement!
Till next week!
-Carlie
