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A vintage green car with a rooftop tent is set up for camping. It is surrounded by autumn trees, string lights, cushions, candles, and a small campfire.

Cozy Fall Camping Elopement in Palmer, Alaska

January 14, 2025

A fall camping elopement in Alaska is nothing short of pure magic. Fall in Alaska is hands down my favorite season, even if it lasts just a blip in comparison to our other seasons. Because it is so short and the weather is finicky, it takes a little bit more planning and flexibility, but when you nail it, it’s incredible! The mixture of fall colors, snowcapped peaks, crisp air and a little campfire smoke is honestly the best combination and this elopement checks all of those boxes. If you’re looking for the ultimate indie folk fall camping elopement inspiration, well, you’re in the right place.

A couple sits on blankets with a small table, surrounded by candles and flowers. A vintage car with a rooftop tent is parked nearby, set against a backdrop of autumn trees and mountains.
A car with a rooftop tent is set up for camping. Chairs and a fire pit are nearby, surrounded by autumn trees and string lights for a fall camping elopement.

Table of Contents

Fall Camping Elopement Inspiration

Picture this: It’s a beautiful fall evening, you and your honey are packed and ready to go for your elopement adventure and you drive off into the mountains with your essentials in tow. You find a beautiful public use camping area with beautiful fall colors and mountain views and find the perfect place to park and set up camp for the night. That night you snuggle around the fire, reminisce on your time together and chat about your excitement for the following day: your elopement day! In the morning you wake up to mountains and birds singing, the foliage is lit by the morning sun. You make a campfire breakfast, drink your tea, maybe you go for a walk or a hike, a morning swim? Here are the visuals because of what your morning could look like:

A couple sits by a campfire with a green vintage car and camping gear nearby. Autumn trees are in the background.
  • A couple sits by a campfire, surrounded by autumn trees, with an old car in the background.
  • Two people sitting close together in an old green car, viewed through the rear window.
  • A person gives another a piggyback ride in front of a vintage car with autumn trees and mountains in the background.

Then, it’s time to get ready. It’s easy, low-key, no pressure, you help each other get ready, zip zippers, tie ties, help with florals, lace up your boots. From there you roll into the ceremony and the day is free-flowing, you go for a drive, do some exploring and running around, then you wrap it all up with a sweet little fireside picnic, warm blueberry pie and snuggling in your rooftop tent.

Does that not sound SO sweet?!

I wanted this elopement session to feel fun, quirky, and different. With a mix of funky fall colors, eclectic vintage vibes and a candle/lamp lit scene, I think we nailed it! More visuals because preeeetttty:

  • Brown boots, a necklace, and a hat are arranged on a gravel surface. Nearby, there are two lanterns and a bouquet of orange flowers.
  • A vintage green car equipped with a roof tent and decorated with flowers is parked on a gravel path. Autumn trees and mountain cliffs are in the background.
  • Wedding dress and bridal bouquet hanging outside a vintage car with boots and a plaid shirt, creating a rustic setting.
  • Bouquet of flowers on a car seat with multicolored striped seat covers.
  • A person is visible through the side mirror of a vintage green car with flowers on its hood, set against an outdoor background.
  • A woman in a white dress adjusts a boutonniere on a man's jacket. They stand in front of a vintage car with camping gear on top, surrounded by autumn foliage.
  • Person in a white dress has the back of the dress buttoned by another person outdoors.

The Knik River

Alaska is home to make beautiful lakes, rivers, and coastal areas that are absolutely swoon worthy, and the Knik River is one of those places that I just keep coming back to. It’s located in the Matanuska Valley in the Butte. It’s down the Old Glenn Highway and is right off the road super easy access. It’s also pretty chill Public Use Land area. Anyone operating commercially will need a Commercial Use Permit from DNR, so your vendors and such but as far as for ceremonies they’re very chill and typically don’t require anything for less than 50 guests. Be sure to check their website before making concrete plans though, just to be sure you’re in the clear.

A vehicle on a flat landscape with snow-capped mountains and colorful autumn foliage reflected in a still body of water.

The only downside to this area is that because it’s Public Use, it isn’t really monitored so people zip around in off road vehicles and make a lot of noise. There’s usually a lot of campers in the summer, etc. So if you’re looking for super private and quiet, this is hit or miss. In the fall mid-week it is way less busy. This session took place at the end of September and we saw maybe a handful of other vehicles.

  • A couple walks outdoors, the woman in a white dress holding a bouquet, and the man in dark clothing. They are on a gravel path with mountains and trees in the background.
  • A couple in wedding attire stands back-to-back in a mountainous landscape with overcast skies. The bride holds a bouquet of flowers.
  • A couple stands on a gravel path with mountains in the background. The woman wears a long white dress and holds a bouquet, while the man wears a dark outfit.

We chose this area because of the sweeping mountain views and ability to set up camp wherever we could get the best views, which is really nice as opposed to a designated campground. I do highly recommend following Leave No Trace principles and leaving it how you found it and respecting this beautiful state as much as possible. Most of the year it’s pretty easy access but there are some parts that you may want to look at before driving through if you’re in your daily driver. It really is the perfect destination for a fall camping elopement if you want something easy and low pressure.

Already sold on Alaska as a destination and want to get a kick start on planning your elopement? Read this blog on How to Elope in Alaska.

  • A couple stands by a vintage car with luggage on top, surrounded by autumn foliage and mountains. The woman wears a white dress, holding a bouquet.
  • A couple stands facing each other, holding papers, in front of a vintage car with autumn foliage and a mountain in the background. The woman wears a long white dress.
  • A couple stands facing each other in wedding attire, holding flowers, near a vintage car with luggage. Mountains and autumn trees are in the background.
  • A couple stands outdoors during a ceremony. The woman reads from a card, while the man listens. They are surrounded by autumn trees and a mountain is visible in the background.
  • A couple stands outdoors exchanging vows, surrounded by autumn foliage. A vintage vehicle with luggage and flowers is beside them.
  • Close-up of two people exchanging rings, showing hands with tattoos and jewelry.
  • A couple embraces next to a green vintage car with a bouquet on the back. They're surrounded by autumn trees and mountains under a cloudy sky.
  • A couple embraces and kisses by an olive green car loaded with flowers and luggage, surrounded by autumn foliage and mountains.
  • A green vintage car with luggage on the roof rack and a bouquet of flowers on the back is parked on a mountain road with autumn trees in the background.
  • A vintage green car is partially visible through autumn leaves. It has a roof rack decorated with string lights and flowers.

Indie Folk Elopement Outfit Inspiration

  • A vintage car with a roof tent is parked by a lake and mountain, displaying a white dress and coat. Brown boots and a bouquet of flowers are on the ground nearby for a fall camping elopement.
  • A person tying boots sits beside a green vehicle with a rooftop tent and hanging wedding dress. There are fall trees in the background and camping gear nearby.
  • A person assists a woman in a white dress with her outfit near a green car in a scenic outdoor setting with mountains and autumn trees during their fall camping elopement.
  • Woman in a white dress laces brown boots while sitting on a wooden chair beside a vintage green car with camping gear getting ready for her fall camping elopement.

We had fun with the couple’s outfits creating the perfect mix of casual, vibey, elegance. Believe it or not, this gown is a facebook marketplace find gone all sorts of right, and the groom’s outfit is 100% what he already had in his closet. Their outfits beautifully blend dressed up indie folk with ethereal goddess vibes and they make me all sorts of happy.

The bride is wearing a stunning, vintage-inspired satin gown (unknown designer) with long bishop sleeves and a deep V neckline. Her flowing blonde hair is perfectly matched with a crystal crown by Ice Queen Crowns, adding a fairytale romance touch to her look.

The groom’s attire leans toward a rugged, outdoorsy vibe with a plaid flannel shirt layered under a dark wool vest. He pairs it with brown trousers and sturdy leather boots, offering a practical yet polished look that harmonizes with the adventurous atmosphere of the elopement.

Their outfits strike a perfect balance between formal and casual which suits the Alaskan landscape and vintage VW bug camping scene really well.

A couple stands holding hands in a mountainous landscape with autumn foliage, viewed through an open car door. The woman wears a white dress and holds a bouquet.
  • A couple in wedding attire holding hands and walking on a mountain road. The bride carries a bouquet, and autumn foliage is visible in the background.
  • A couple dances outdoors near a mountain, framed by a car window. The woman is in a white dress holding a bouquet, and the man is in dark clothing.
  • A couple stands on a mountain road, surrounded by autumn foliage. The woman holds a bouquet, both look into the distance. A car door frame partially visible in the foreground.
  • A couple in wedding attire stands closely on a gravel path surrounded by autumn trees, viewed through a vehicle window.

Adventure Elopement Getaway Vehicle

A green vintage Volkswagen Beetle with a roof rack and lights drives down a road lined with autumn trees.

This entire session was planned around this super groovy VW Bug from Looks Like a Local. I’m a lover of all things vintage and adventure so when you merge what is essentially my dream car with a rooftop tent I’m STOKED! They even added some edison bulbs around the roof rack to add a little extra sparkle. What’s also super cool is the couple in these photos owns the company so it felt meant to be!

  • A vintage green car with a rooftop tent drives on a forested road. It is decorated with string lights and carries a bouquet and suitcase on the back.
  • A green vintage Beetle with a roof rack drives on a road, surrounded by blurred greenery.
  • A bride in a white gown holds a large bouquet with various flowers, seen through a window.
  • Bride and groom stand beside a vintage car with a rooftop tent. They are surrounded by autumn foliage, and a mountain is visible in the background. The bride holds a bouquet.
  • A couple in wedding attire stands by a decorated car. The woman holds a bouquet, and the man leans in close. Autumn foliage is visible in the background.
  • A couple in wedding attire stands by a flower-adorned vintage car in a scenic mountainous area with autumn foliage.
  • A couple in wedding attire kisses in front of a vintage car with a roof rack. They are surrounded by autumnal trees and a rocky background.
  • A couple embraces by a vintage car adorned with flowers. The woman is in a white dress, holding a bouquet, and the man is in a dark suit. Autumn foliage and a mountain form the background.

Fall Camping Elopement

This styled shoot captures the perfect mix of low-key adventure, romance, and cozy fall vibes, making it a dream for couples seeking unique elopement inspiration. Set against the vibrant hues of an Alaskan autumn, the scene features a charming vintage VW Bug transformed into a whimsical elopement getaway, complete with a rooftop tent draped in warm string lights.

The intimate setup includes a glowing campfire, soft woven textures, and flickering candles that create an inviting, romantic atmosphere. The thoughtful details—like the lush floral arrangements, earthy green and mustard tones, and moody outdoor setting—perfectly complement the sense of adventure this shoot embodies.

Whether you’re planning your own fall elopement or dreaming of an intimate escape under the stars, this styled shoot is sure to inspire a celebration filled with warmth, creativity, and unforgettable memories.

Fun Ideas for Your Fall Elopement

Elopements don’t all have to include the ultimate adventure or something totally different from the norm. If there is something that you and your honey normally do together that you really love, you should abso-freaking-lutely think about including it. If you’re a little stuck on what all is possible and looking for more fall camping elopement ideas, here is a quick list of fun things you could include:

  • Rent a mobile sauna
  • Hire a private chef
  • Jump in a lake
  • Go for a hike
  • Incorporate Stargazing/Aurora Watching
  • Plan a Helicopter tour for gorgeous aerial views
  • Ziplining if you’re feeling adventurous
  • Board/card games if you want something more snuggly and palyful
  • Paddle/canoe/sailboat if you want something chill on the water
  • Camping/Campfire with tunes and good conversation.

This is not the end-all-be-all list, there is so much room for personalization, you could do one or more. The sky is the limit!

Camping Elopement Picnic

If you’re looking for a way to elevate your elopement, a stylized set up is suuuch a perfect way of doing it. Saige from A Touch of Saige Events nailed it with the moody velvet look and extra twinkle lights. She also incorporated some beautiful candles by AK Cozy Co that not only were so whimsical and nature inspired, but smelled amazing. The adirondak set is one I brought along and the couple brought oil lamps from their own home which added sooo perfectly to the vintage feel we had going on. Seriously the elopement set up of my DREAMS!

  • A vintage car with a rooftop tent is surrounded by outdoor furniture, candles, and a fire pit. String lights are hung across a wooded autumn setting for a fall camping elopement
  • A car with a rooftop tent is set up for camping. Chairs and a fire pit are nearby, surrounded by autumn trees and string lights for a fall camping elopement.
  • Vintage car with roof tent, surrounded by autumn foliage and lit string lights. Cozy setup with cushions, candles, and flowers in the foreground. Lanterns add a warm ambiance.
  • A vintage car with a rooftop tent, surrounded by autumn trees and outdoor camping decor, including string lights, cushions, and a small table with candles, fall camping elopement set up.
  • A vintage car with a rooftop tent is parked outdoors. Chairs, a fire pit, and string lights create a cozy campsite atmosphere amid autumn foliage.
  • A cozy outdoor setting with a vintage car, illuminated by string lights. A table is adorned with candles, flowers, and velvet fabric, surrounded by pillows and greenery.
  • A vintage car is parked outdoors with a cozy seating area in front, featuring cushions, candles, a table with a green cloth, and a bouquet of flowers. A ladder leans against the car.
  • A vintage car with a rooftop tent is parked in a forest. A campfire is surrounded by two wooden chairs, baskets, and lanterns. String lights hang above in the trees.
  • A couple sits outdoors on cushions near a table with candles and flowers, beside a vintage car. String lights hang above, with mountains and trees in the background.
  • A couple sits on blankets, surrounded by candles, near a vintage car with a rooftop tent in a forested area with string lights.
  • A table set for two with gray plates, golden cutlery, and white napkins. Candles and dark glass cups are arranged on a green velvet tablecloth.
  • Two people sit by a campfire in a rustic outdoor setting with a pie cooking over the flames. A vintage car and a table with candles are in the background.
  • A person cuts a pie beside two lit candles on a round table.
  • A man and woman are seated outdoors next to a small table with pies and a candle. The man is cutting a pie while the woman watches. A vintage car and autumn leaves are in the background.
  • Person sitting at a candlelit table, slicing a pastry on a plate. The table is covered with a dark cloth and decorated with candles and glassware.
  • A woman in a hat and a man sit outdoors at night, under string lights. She feeds him a marshmallow. A cozy camper setup with cushions and candles is visible.
  • A man and woman sit together outdoors, surrounded by candles and lights. The man is feeding the woman as they sit on cushions near a classic car.
  • Two people share food from a plate during a picnic. One person cuts food, while the other holds a drink. Candles and dishes are on a dark cloth for a fall camping elopement

Vendors for Your Alaska Elopement

If you’re looking for some rad vendors to be a part of/contribute their amazing talents/offerings to your day, then check these people out!

Camping Rig: Look Like a Local // Instagram
Elopement Florals: Honeybee Flower Company // Instagram
Elopement Setup: A Touch of Saige Events // Instagram
Fern Candles: AK Cozy Co // Instagram

  • A couple sits by a campfire at night. The woman plays a ukulele, surrounded by string lights and candles. A classic car with a roof tent is in the background.
  • A person in a white dress plays a string instrument with decorated hands.
  • A woman plays guitar near a lantern-lit campsite beside a vintage car. A man sits across from her, surrounded by candles, with a string of lights overhead.
  • A couple kisses beside a vintage car with a rooftop tent at dusk. String lights hang around, and candles illuminate the scene.
  • A woman in a white dress and black hat plays a string instrument while sitting outdoors. A person faces her, and a vintage car is in the background.
  • A couple sets up a rooftop tent on a vintage car surrounded by string lights and candles in a wooded area.
  • A person with curly hair and a beard sits outdoors by candlelight, wearing a dark vest and a flower boutonniere. Autumn foliage is visible in the background.
  • A couple embraces near a car with a rooftop tent, surrounded by string lights, chairs, a lantern, and a small campfire in a wooded area.
  • A man and woman dance outdoors at night near a lantern-lit campsite with a tent on top of a car.
  • A couple stands close under string lights, near a vintage car with a rooftop tent. The scene is framed by autumn leaves, creating a cozy atmosphere.
  • A couple kisses surrounded by strings of glowing lights, creating a dreamy, circular blur effect in the foreground.
  • A vintage car with a rooftop tent and string lights. Two people sit inside the tent at dusk, with a backdrop of trees and a dark sky. Perfect stay for Alaska Honeymoon.
  • A green vintage car with a rooftop tent is illuminated by string lights at night. Two silhouetted figures are inside the tent.

If you’re looking to plan a fall camping elopement in Alaska, I’d loooove to help guide the way! Reach out!

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All the things you need to know about eloping in the beautiful state of Alaska written by a local Alaskan. From seasons, weather and clothing tips to marriage license information, recommended locations and so much more! Written by your very own Alaska Photographer.

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