8 Places To Elope In Indiana: Hidden Gems In The Hoosier State

Planning An Adventure Elopement In Indiana - Is It Possible?

Choosing the perfect spot to elope can feel like a daunting task, especially when you're planning an elopement in the great state of Indiana. Sometimes it can feel like all there is are corn and soybean fields, but don’t give up hope just yet! There are plenty of places that feel private and picturesque enough to make your day unforgettable. If you've been struggling to find the best location to elope in Indiana, you're not alone. But don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.

This is your guide to scenic elopement locations in northern, central, and southern Indiana.

So grab a cup of coffee and sit back as we share eight wonderful lakeside, forest, waterfall, and beach elopement locations in The Hoosier State.  

The Appeal of Secluded Elopement Spots

Intimacy and Privacy

One of the most compelling reasons couple choose to elope is for the experience of intimacy and privacy. When you’re tucked away in a secluded outdoor environment, you can truly focus on each other without the distractions of a bustling venue or nosy guests. Those tender, heartfelt moments (as well as the loud celebratory moments) are entirely your own. Whether it’s a quiet whisper of love, a shared laugh, or a dance— These moments are cherished even more in a place that feels like it belongs only to you, ensuring that your intimate wedding experience remains as personal as you envisioned.

Connection with Nature

Nature adds a layer of beauty and tranquility to any adventure elopement. Quiet babbling brooks, canopies of trees that filter the sunlight just right, waves lapping on soft sand— These natural elements not only create a stunning backdrop but also foster a deep sense of awe for the world we live in.

Uniqueness and Personalization

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a private place to exchange vows is the opportunity to truly personalize your wedding ceremony. These off-the-beaten-path locations offer a blank canvas where you can infuse your personalities and preferences into every detail. Maybe you choose to elope on a special trail you both discovered together, a place that holds sentimental value, or a cliffside view that takes your breath away. These kinds of private locations allow your wedding celebration to also be a reflection of your journey as a couple. 

Outdoor Elopement Locations in Indiana

NORTHERN INDIANA — along lake michigan

Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park, stretching along 15 miles of Lake Michigan’s southern shore, offers a diverse landscape of sandy beaches, towering dunes, and quiet tree lines. With over 15,000 acres to explore, this national park provides numerous secluded spots for an intimate elopement.

BONUS TIP: For the most privacy, consider eloping at West Beach during the off-season or early morning hours, where you can enjoy the stunning views without the crowds.

 

Brincka Cross Gardens

Brincka Cross Gardens is a botanical wonderland spanning 25 acres in Michigan City, Indiana. The garden features a diverse collection of plants, serene walking paths, and several peaceful spots perfect for a secluded elopement. The artistic landscape design and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal location for an intimate ceremony.

BONUS TIP: Plan your elopement in early spring when the gardens come alive with a variety of colorful, blooming flowers.

 

CENTRAL INDIANA — beyond indianapolis

Cataract Falls

Located in Lieber State Recreation Area, Cataract Falls is the largest waterfall in Indiana, with a cumulative height of 86 feet across two sets of falls. The surrounding area is rich with scenic beauty, making it a perfect spot for an elopement. The lesser-visited areas around the falls provide the privacy and intimacy for your elopement. 

BONUS TIP: Early morning visits not only guarantee privacy but also provide the best lighting for photography, capturing the waterfalls in their full glory.

 

Turkey Run State Park

Famous for its rugged canyons and scenic vistas, Turkey Run State Park spans 2,382 acres in Parke County. Narrows Covered Bridge and numerous hidden trails offer a variety of secluded spots perfect for a romantic ceremony.

BONUS TIP: Explore the park’s off-season in late winter or early spring to enjoy the tranquility without the peak season crowds.

 

Brown County State Park

As Indiana’s largest state park, Brown County State Park’s sprawling 16,000 acres of land is a haven for nature lovers. This place is known as the "Little Smokies" for its resemblance to the Great Smoky Mountains. The Overlook Tower and hidden trails provide the perfect backdrop for a private ceremony.

BONUS TIP: Elope during the less crowded weekdays in the fall to experience the park’s famous autumn foliage with the added bonus of no crowds.

 

SOUTHERN INDIANA — GATEWAY TO THE APPALACHIAN MOUNTAINS

Clifty Falls State Park

Nestled in Jefferson County, Clifty Falls State Park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and rugged trails. With 1,519 acres of natural beauty, the park offers several secluded spots perfect for an intimate elopement. Imagine saying your vows against the backdrop of the majestic Big Clifty Falls, which plunges a dramatic 60 feet.

BONUS TIP: While the falls are breathtaking year-round, winter transforms them into stunning ice formations, offering a unique and enchanting setting for a winter elopement.

 

Patoka Lake

Patoka Lake spans 8,800 acres and is surrounded by forests and rolling hills. The lake’s quiet coves and hidden trails provide a picturesque setting for a private elopement. The area is perfect for couples seeking a peaceful ceremony by the water.

BONUS TIP: Consider a boat rental for a unique elopement ceremony on the water, providing an even more memorable experience.

 

Hemlock Cliffs

Located in the Hoosier National Forest, Hemlock Cliffs is a hidden gem known for its stunning sandstone cliffs and lush vegetation, offering a breathtaking setting for an adventure elopement.

BONUS TIP: Hemlock Cliffs is home to unique plant species that bloom in late spring. If you’re wanting a vibrant and colorful backdrop for your elopement ceremony, remember to take advantage of this!

 

Indiana may not be the first state that comes to mind for a dreamy adventure elopement, but it definitely has its fair share of beautiful, private ceremony locations! So whether you prefer the sound of waves at the dunes, the peacefulness of a hidden garden, or the awe-inspiring views from a cliffside, there is a scenic location in Indiana for every couple’s adventure elopement.

Just remember that the right location will transform your elopement experience into a memorable adventure.

If you’re ready to plan a once-in-a-lifetime elopement experience, we’re here to help! Send us a message to learn more about our Full-Day Adventure Elopement Experience in Indiana and beyond.