A guide to location scouting at Smith Rock State Park – the most versatile and unique gem located in Central Oregon.

I’ve probably said it 100 times now, but Smith Rock never ceases to amaze me with its beauty, and uniqueness. I’ve probably shot here over a dozen times and every single session I fall deeper in love.

Have you ever shot at the same spot multiple times and felt like your sessions just looked the same? Well, the only way to fix that is to get there early and scout out some alternate locations from the ones you’re comfortable shooting at. I’m gonna share with you my favorite spots to shoot at Smith Rock State Park in this post.

Bivouac section

This location you only have access to when you becoming friends with the Ranger — thank you, Megan! This is the camping grounds section of the park. You make a little walk along a path towards the edge of the cliff to get these stunning views.

Rope-di-dope

Where most of the rock climbers will be hanging from walls. There are stairs that lead down into the canyon are you have fall seclusion, and feel like the size of an ant, but would make for a perfect spot to say I do with some shading during a blazing summer. I wouldn’t recommend bringing anything large down there because it is a little bit of a walk. Keep your table at the top like we did for this day. 

Horse Ford

You will park in the turn around section by the amphitheater. Walk towards the welcome center and light, and you’ll find stairs just to the left of where you parked. Follow the Homestead trail down to the most northern point of the canyon where you get big volcanic rocks, evergreen trees, running water, and shade with the sun peeking over the rocks. It’s dreamy and hidden so you get your own space to hold an intimate elopement.

Amphitheater

A spot you can reserve up to six months before your wedding day, especially if you’re planning on having around 50 guests or less. Check out the weddings I shot here before.

“The Elopement Spot”

Honestly, that’s not really what it’s called, but that’s what photographers referred to it as. This is the number one spot that everyone wants to shoot at to get the sun dipping through Smith Rock with the Crooked River down below, just engulfed by the beautiful land. Park in the welcome center next to the bathrooms and then just walk straight for a couple of mins and you will hit it. We ended Kerrie and Tyler’s engagement session here.

Rim Rock Trail + Viewpoint

A great spot to bring a bridal party to get the rock in the background, but still have enough space to photograph everyone. It’s encouraged to stay on the trails to keep the land intact. You’ll find that you’ve got enough space over there to not trample on nature.

Be sure to call the ranger station if you’re planning a wedding to make sure you don’t need any permits. It is a first come first serve the park, which is the only speedbump you’ll run into if someone is also getting married there before you. It will cost five dollars per car for parking anywhere in the park.

There are six new locations for you to check out the next time you go to Smith Rock State Park, and if you’re looking for someone to capture your wedding or elopement, hit this button above so we can start chatting about your dream wedding day!!

VENDORS:

Photographer: Emily Vandehey Photography

Planning: Curated Mess⁠⠀

Florist: Lourdes Florals

HMUA: Edge Hair & Makeup

Cake: Dreamin Deserts

Calligrapher: Lichen & Pines Letterpress⠀

Dress: A & Be Bridal Shop⁠⠀

Rentals: Curated Event Rentals⠀