Why this underrated gem might be the perfect place to say ‘I do’!

When you think about eloping, your mind might jump to the Pacific Northwest, the desert in Utah, or the peaks of Colorado. But let me let you in on a little secret: Arkansas is one of the best places to elope—and hardly anyone is talking about it.

Not only is it packed with wild, scenic beauty (hello, bluff views and hidden waterfalls), but it’s also incredibly easy and budget-friendly. In fact, most Arkansas elopement spots are completely free to use. No permits, no fees, no fuss—just you, your person, and a promise.

If you’re dreaming of a quiet, intentional day without the stress of logistics or big price tags, here’s your step-by-step guide on how to elope in Arkansas.

1. Pick Your Season (and Location!)

Arkansas brings the magic year-round—but fall and spring are especially stunning. Think glowing orange foliage in October or lush green forests and wildflowers in May.

Some favorite elopement spots include:

• Whitaker Point (Hawksbill Crag) – iconic bluff views
• Sam’s Throne – moody rock formations and killer sunsets
• Richland Creek Wilderness – secluded and full of waterfalls
• Mount Nebo & Mount Magazine – mountaintop views without a major hike
• Buffalo River & Steel Creek Campground – beautiful blue river and vast fields with towering bluffs all around
• White Rock – lesser known panoramic views

Most of these places don’t require a permit to elope, which is rare in the U.S.—but that also means they’re accessible to everyone, so you’ll want to plan around potential crowds.

Check out my blog about the best places to elope in Arkansas here!

2. Plan a Sunrise Elopement (Trust Me on This One)

Here’s the deal: since permits aren’t required, that also means there’s no one saving you a private spot. If you want a quiet, magical moment to exchange vows, sunrise is your best friend.

Yes, that means hiking in the dark with headlamps, but I promise—it’s part of the adventure. There’s something really special about starting your wedding day in total stillness, with the stars above you and the trail beneath your boots.

By the time you reach the bluff, the sky is glowing pink and gold, and you’ll have the view completely to yourselves. It’s worth the early alarm.

Read about the best times of year to elope in Arkansas here!

3. Get Your Marriage License (Easy Peasy)

The legal side of eloping in Arkansas is super simple:

• You can get your marriage license at any county clerk’s office in the state. No appointment needed.
• Both parties must be 18+ and bring a valid government-issued ID.
• The license costs about $60 and is valid immediately (no waiting period!).
• You’ll need one officiant, but no witnesses are required.
• After the ceremony, your officiant signs the license and returns it to the clerk’s office within 60 days.

If you’re traveling in from out of state, I usually recommend planning to arrive at least a day early to grab your license.

4. Choose an Officiant You Connect With

Whether you want to keep things short and sweet or write custom vows and include meaningful prayers or rituals, your officiant sets the tone. Some couples bring a pastor, ask a friend to get ordained online, or hire a local elopement officiant.

Just remember: Arkansas requires an officiant, but not any witnesses, so your elopement can still be just the two of you (plus me behind the lens!).

5. Book Your Elopement Photographer (Hi, It’s Me!)

A meaningful elopement deserves to be captured with just as much care as a big wedding day—maybe more. That’s why I do more than just show up with a camera.

When you work with me, you’re getting a photographer and an experienced elopement guide. I’ll help you:

• Find the perfect location based on your vision and vibe
• Figure out your timeline so the day flows naturally (with room for slow, meaningful moments)
• Handle the logistics—from sunrise hikes to rain plans to kiddo naps
• Assist with legal details and permits, if needed
• Keep communication open the entire time—we’ll chat about everything from shoes to vows to weather backup plans

Whether you want to hike up a bluff before dawn, exchange vows with your toddler in your arms, or explore waterfalls barefoot after your first kiss—this is your day, your way.

I’ll be your guide, your documentarian, and your hype woman through it all.

6. Soak It All In

After your vows, plan something slow and meaningful:

• A picnic breakfast on the bluff
• A swim in a hidden creek or an iconic Arkansas waterfall
• A cozy cabin brunch
• A slow hike down, hand in hand, with zero rush

Elopements in Arkansas don’t need a ton of bells and whistles. The simplicity is what makes it so magical. You’re not performing for anyone. You’re just being—in love, in nature, and in the moment.

Final Thoughts: Why Arkansas Is the Perfect Elopement Destination

Arkansas is one of the most underrated elopement spots in the country. It’s wild, free, and overflowing with beauty. And the best part? You don’t need a huge budget, complicated logistics, or even a big guest list to make it happen.

All you need is a heart full of love, a good pair of hiking boots, and the courage to do things your way.

Ready to plan your elopement in Arkansas? I’d love to help you dream it up and document every moment.

Reach out here to start planning your elopement with me!