Weddings Frequently Asked Questions

Reservations can be made up to 11 months in advance either online or by calling the Virginia State Parks Customer Service Center at 1-800-933-7275. Some venues must be reserved through the park events coordinator. Please see the park-specific page for details.

Please refer to the fees guide for the specific park and facility for your reservation. Additional fees may apply depending on the park.

Yes. Most parks encourage you to set an appointment with a ranger to view the venue, pick up or submit any applicable forms that may be required, and discuss rental terms and additional rental package options available.

Public use of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in Virginia State Parks. However, organized distribution of alcoholic beverages is allowed inside some park facilities if the appropriate ABC banquet license is obtained. It is the responsibility of the renter to obtain the license through the regional ABC office. The license shall be posted at all times while the event is being held and a copy provided to park staff. Please allow ample time (about three weeks) for the permit application to be reviewed, verified, approved and issued.

Fireworks are not permitted. State law prohibits fireworks and sparklers in all state parks and the use of open flame (candles) inside any state facility. Please consider using battery-operated candles or plug-in string lights as an alternative.

In an effort to protect the resource and wildlife and provide visitor safety, the wedding party and guests will be asked to refrain from throwing any wedding toss (rice, birdseed, balloon release, etc.) or from releasing any type of wildlife (i.e. white doves, butterflies, etc.).

Pets are allowed in Virginia state parks but must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. Pets are not permitted in any public building, food service areas and designated swimming areas except for designated service animals.

You have from the start day and time your reservation begins until the time given by park management on the day your rental ends, to have all items delivered, removed and the grounds cleaned. We recommend considering adding a day(s) for setting up and or removal of equipment.

Quiet hours for the park begin at 10 p.m. All outside guests (those not spending the night) must leave by this time.

Parking fees apply to all vehicles that enter the park unless you have a qualified exception (e.g. season pass holder, disabled, have an overnight reservation at the park, etc.). Some venues offer wedding packages that include certain parking facilities. You may elect to cover the vehicle entry fee for your guests or they may pay at the contact station upon entering the park.

Decorations are permitted but may not be attached to any painted or stained surface. Decorations may not damage the facility in any way. You must remove all decorations at the conclusion of the rental period. Renters will be responsible for damages or any excess cleaning required after the event. Individual parks may have specific guidelines for additional application of decorations.

Parks require a special use permit issued by the park manager and some also require a signed rental agreement. Allow 30 days to process a special use permit. Additional fees may apply. Please list on the special use permit and notify the park office of all vendors and service providers associated with your event. A special use permit is required for commercial photography at parks. This includes photos taken by a professional photographer, where a fee is charged for the photo session or photography taken to be used in marketing materials or to sell. Please contact the park directly to discuss your event and obtain the necessary application.

Tents may be set up at designated locations at some parks. Special permission is required because of underground electric lines and other utilities that dictate where a tent may be staked.

If you are interested in being married just the two of you, along the river's edge at sunset or a scenic mountain overlook, yes, you can. You need to hire an officiant, get your wedding license at any Virginia Courthouse, pick your park and get special use permit. It is required. The permit includes photography taken by a professional photographer or commercial photography at parks where a fee is charged for the photo session or photography taken to be used in marketing materials or to sell.