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If you’re dreaming of an adventurous, nature-filled wedding day, Turkey Run State Park in Indiana might just be the perfect place for you! Tucked away in the heart of the Midwest, this hidden gem offers a stunning backdrop of rugged cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and peaceful rivers—perfect for couples who want a little adventure with their vows. So without further adue, let’s dive into our Turkey Run Wedding blog post!
Now, I know what you’re thinking—Indiana? Really? But trust me, Turkey Run is where the magic happens. Think of it as Indiana’s best-kept secret!
As a photographer who’s spent a lot of time exploring every nook and cranny of Turkey Run, I can’t get enough of capturing love stories here. So, if you’re ready to ditch the traditional wedding scene for something a little wilder, let’s dive into why Turkey Run should top your list!
Let’s be real—Turkey Run is an absolute dream for couples who love a good outdoor adventure. This place has it all: jaw-dropping landscapes, crazy-cool rock formations, and so much lush greenery you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Whether you’re standing on a cliff edge or saying your vows by the river, you’ll be surrounded by some seriously stunning scenery.
But it’s not just about the views. If you and your partner are the adventurous type, Turkey Run is like a playground. You can start your wedding day with a hike through the rugged trails, cross the famous suspension bridge hand-in-hand, or even rent a canoe for a post-ceremony paddle down Sugar Creek! And if you’re feeling extra bold, there are waterfalls just waiting to be your backdrop.
Turkey Run is perfect for couples who want their day to be intimate, personal, and connected to nature. It’s secluded enough to feel like you’re off the grid, but still close enough to Indy that your guests (if you’re inviting any) won’t have to trek for hours to celebrate with you. Whether you’re all about the adrenaline or just looking for a peaceful, beautiful spot to say “I do,” Turkey Run has you covered!
Best Locations for Elopement Ceremonies in Turkey Run
So legally, you cannot actually “tie the knot” on any of the trails in this state park. If you want to exchange vows in the park, it has to be in one of the designated areas. The Turkey Run Inn has a balcony that you can exchange vows on, as well as some other scenic areas around the park. You can find more information about that HERE.
However, most of our couples choose to exchange their vows in local Airbnbs! And we highly suggest this due to logistics and such. You’ll need a place to get ready anyways, so adding in a beautiful spot to say your vows as well as wind down & relax after your day is the icing on the cake.
We will get into more about the Airbnbs later in this blog but for now checkout our favorite photo spots for your elopement photos!
Timing is everything when it comes to getting those epic elopement photos at Turkey Run! Luckily, this park serves up something beautiful no matter the season—you just have to pick your vibe.
Spring is perfect if you’re into blooming wildflowers, fresh greenery, and that crisp, cool air that makes you want to grab a cozy blanket with your partner. The trails aren’t too crowded yet, and everything feels alive and vibrant. Plus, the waterfalls are at their best after spring rain, so you can get some seriously dreamy shots! Just remember, spring can be a bit unpredictable, so pack a cute umbrella (just in case!).
Summer is for the adventurous at heart. The park is lush and green, the rivers are flowing, and you can spend the day hiking, swimming, and exploring. It’s also a great time if you want a more “epic” feel with those full canopies of trees. But heads up—summer can get hot and humid, so an early morning or sunset ceremony is your best bet for keeping cool. Oh, and don’t forget the bug spray!
Then there’s fall, which is, hands down, one of the most magical times to elope at Turkey Run. The trees explode in colors—reds, oranges, yellows—you name it. Imagine walking down the trail with vibrant leaves crunching underfoot, and a golden glow in every direction. Seriously, fall photos here are chef’s kiss. Just plan for late September through early November to catch the peak of those fall colors. The weather’s cooler but still perfect for outdoor fun.
Winter can be beautiful too, but for the best photos and the most comfortable experience, I’d say stick to spring, summer, or fall. So, depending on your dream elopement aesthetic, Turkey Run’s got you covered year-round!
Average High Temps –> June 82°F, July 85°F, August 83°F
Alright, let’s talk logistics! Eloping at Turkey Run is pretty straightforward, but there are a few things you’ll want to know to make sure your day goes off without a hitch (other than getting hitched, of course!).
First up: permits. Yes, your photographer will need one if you are planning to take your elopement photos at Turkey Run. Don’t worry—it’s not a huge hassle. We already have ours each year, so you won’t have to worry about that!
Next, some park rules and regulations. Because Turkey Run is a state park, there are a few things to keep in mind. For one, they like to keep things low-key, so if you’re inviting guests, keep the number small (think: under 6). It’s also important to stick to the park’s Leave No Trace principles. That means no littering, staying on designated trails, and making sure your photos don’t impact the natural surroundings. Turkey Run is all about preserving its wild beauty, so let’s keep it that way!
With a permit, a small guest list, and a commitment to leaving nature as beautiful as you found it, your Turkey Run elopement will be smooth sailing! (Or hiking… or paddling!)
Ready to add a little adventure to your wedding day? Eloping at Turkey Run means you get to mix epic landscapes with fun activities—and a few practical things to keep in mind! Here are some adventure elopement tips to make sure your day is as stress-free as it is unforgettable.
Packing essentials: First things first, you’ll want to be prepared for an outdoor wedding! Let’s talk attire—go for something that makes you feel like you, but also something you can move around in. Since you will be likely hiking to your ceremony spot, be sure to throw on some comfy hiking boots for the trek (trust me, your feet will thank you). And hey, boots under a wedding dress? That’s a whole lewk on its own. Turkey Run can often get a little muddy so hiking boots are a must!
Don’t forget to pack a day-of essentials kit: water, snacks (you don’t want to be hangry on your big day!), sunscreen, bug spray, and a first aid kit—just in case. Throw in some hand warmers if it’s chilly or a mini fan if you’re eloping in the summer heat. You’ll be grateful for those little lifesavers!
Prepare for the weather: Speaking of heat—or cold—you never really know what you’re gonna get when it comes to outdoor weddings. That’s part of the adventure, right? For unpredictable weather, plan for all possibilities. Have a stylish jacket or shawl on hand in case it gets chilly, or a cute umbrella just in case of rain. If you’re game, rain can actually make for some incredible, romantic photos (think: you and your partner snuggling under an umbrella with misty trees in the background!).
Add some adventure: Since you’re eloping at Turkey Run, why not lean into the adventure part? You can hike to your ceremony spot, exchange vows by a waterfall, or cross the suspension bridge hand in hand right after you say “I do.” Feeling extra bold? Grab a canoe and paddle down Sugar Creek for some post-vows fun—your photographer (that’s me!) will be right there to capture the action.
Let me tell you about one of my recent favorite elopements at Turkey Run—because honestly, this couple’s day was straight out of an adventure wedding dream. Meet Eric and Casey, two nature-loving souls who decided to ditch the big wedding stress and say their vows in front of the moss covered rocks!
From the start, they were all about making their day them. Jess rocked a flowy floral print dress paired with hiking boots (total queen energy), and Casey went for a sharp navy blue suit. Their first look spot? A secluded rock feature known as the ice box!
One of my favorite moments was their pre-ceremony snack. The two shared Jack’s Donuts & coffee while sitting next to one another in the middle of the forest. We might have snuck a bite of a donut as well 😉
After exchanging their vows with the sun peeking through the trees, they decided to celebrate with a little game of backgammon. Yep, you can play a board game on your elopement day!
For me as their photographer, it was an absolute dream to capture their love story. Eric & Casey were all about being present in the moment, which made for the most genuine and heartfelt photos. That’s the magic of Turkey Run—it’s not just a place; it’s a vibe, and it brings out the best in every couple who chooses to elope there.
If you’re planning to elope at Turkey Run, you’ll want a photographer who gets it—someone who’s as excited about your adventure as you are. That’s where we come in!
Experience you can count on: We’ve been capturing adventure elopements and intimate weddings for years, so we know how to roll with whatever the day throws at us—whether it’s a last-minute rain shower or a spontaneous last minute decision to rent canoes for fun. Adventure weddings are kind of our thing, and we’re here to make sure your day is stress-free and fun from start to finish.
Turkey Run pros: We know this park like the back of our hands. From the best sunrise spots to those hidden gems off the beaten path, we’ve scouted it all. We can help you plan your timeline to hit the prettiest locations at the right times (hello, golden hour magic!) and even recommend trails that fit your vibe—whether you’re up for a challenging hike or want to keep it low-key.
A personalized approach: Your day should be as unique as your love story, and we’re here to help you make it happen. Need advice on what to pack? We’ve got you. Want ideas for incorporating a fun activity like canoeing or a champagne toast? Let’s do it! We’ll work with you every step of the way to make sure your Turkey Run elopement feels 100% like you.
At the end of the day, we’re more than just photographers—we’re your biggest cheerleaders, trail guides, and memory-makers. Let’s create something epic together!
If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable adventure wedding, Turkey Run State Park is calling your name! From its jaw-dropping scenery to the endless opportunities for fun and unique moments, this Indiana gem has everything you need to create a day that’s completely you. Whether you’re hiking to a secluded overlook, saying your vows by a peaceful river, or paddling off into the sunset, Turkey Run is the perfect backdrop for your love story.
Ready to make it happen? We’d love to be part of your journey! Let’s plan an adventure-filled elopement that you’ll remember forever. Reach out today to chat about your vision, ask any questions, or book your date. Your dream day at Turkey Run is waiting—we can’t wait to capture every magical moment!
Got questions about saying “I do” at Turkey Run? No problem—we’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions couples ask when planning their elopement at this incredible park:
1. Do I need a permit to elope at Turkey Run?
Yes! Turkey Run State Park requires a permit for weddings and elopements, even if it’s just the two of you. It’s a simple process—just contact the park office to get the ball rolling. Pro tip: Apply early, especially if you’re planning a spring or fall elopement when the park is at its busiest.
2. Can I invite guests to my Turkey Run elopement?
Absolutely! Just remember, you cannot legally get married on the trails at Turkey Run. It must be in a designated site. Renting out a location, you can have up to about 40 people at their ceremony spots. However, for more intimate gatherings we suggest utilizing an Airbnb and then you can have your post-ceremony photos at Turkey Run!
4. What Airbnbs do you suggest?
Our favorite Airbnbs are the Yurt at The Queen and I BNB and This really cute black A-Frame called The Walker Getaway! Both of these Airbnbs allow for super cute ceremonies as well as close to Turkey Run locations!
5. What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
Outdoor weddings always come with a bit of unpredictability, but that’s part of the adventure! We’ll help you plan for all kinds of weather—whether it’s packing umbrellas for a little rain or finding shaded spots to keep cool in the summer heat. Plus, some of the best photos happen in unexpected weather (hello, romantic rain shots!).
6. What’s included in your photography packages?
Our elopement packages are all about YOU! Every package includes personalized planning help, location scouting, timeline advice, and, of course, stunning photos that capture every moment of your day. We’ll work with you to create a package that fits your vision, whether you want a few hours of coverage or a full-day adventure. Our elopement packages start at $2500.
Have more questions? Let’s chat! We’re here to help you plan an unforgettable elopement at Turkey Run, from permits to photo-perfect spots and everything in between. Reach out today, and let’s start planning your epic day!
XOXO,
Sam & Bryt