Top 12 Forest Wedding Venues in Minnesota

Elopements, Resources, Weddings

March 11, 2024

Last updated on September 17th, 2025

Okay, I can’t be the only one who’s dreamed about getting married in a forest and feeling like a magical forest fairy, can I? If you’re anything like me, the thought of marrying the love of your life outdoors, surrounded by trees feels enchanting. And guess what? It’s totally possible to have this experience right here in Minnesota. To help you in your wedding or elopement journey, I’ve searched high and low for forest wedding venues in Minnesota so you don’t have to. Here’s my list of top spots!

Table of Contents

1. Cuyuna Cove – Crosby

Starting out strong with this absolutely gorgeous location. While Cuyuna Cove is not marketed as a wedding venue (it’s considered a boutique lodging location), it is still a perfect spot for a woodsy wedding. It’s even better because you can stay and party with your closest friends and family before, during, and after your wedding if that’s your vibe. 

Located in the Iron Range of Minnesota, there is access to 15 lakes and 55 miles of trails to explore all while only being 2 hours away from the Twin Cities. If you’re looking for forest wedding ideas that don’t include having to travel too far from home, this is the place for you! You can also get a cozy stay out of it. 

2. Juliane James Place – Finlayson

As another magical location in the heart of the woods with waterfront views, Juliane James Place deserves a rightful spot on my list of top forest wedding venues in Minnesota. It’s located on 40 acres of land to give it a super private feel. There is also a house and cabin for all of your closest guests to stay in and enjoy the beauty. Juliane James Place only hosts 15 weddings a year, though, so if you’re interested, inquire ASAP! 

3. Woods Retreat – Long Lake

This one’s got an amphitheater right in the woods! Woods Retreat makes for a perfect spot for a larger outdoor wedding. The amphitheater seats 300 people but also has a gorgeous indoor chapel in case of rain. It gets its name “Woods Retreat” for a reason—it truly does have a ton of wood coverage, making it an ideal venue for spring, summer, or fall. While you might not want to get married outdoors in the winter, it would still be an amazing backdrop for photos in the winter as well!

4. The Renaissance Festival Grounds – Shakopee

Some may say a Renaissance Fair wedding, but it is more officially known as “Magical Outdoor Weddings” (and for good reason). They have five different outdoor locations for your ceremony:

  • The Secret Garden
  • The King’s Arbor
  • The Crown Stage
  • The Chapel Garden
  • The Front Gate

Not only could you get married at a truly memorable ceremony spot, but you also have access to all of the grounds to make your photos magical.

5. Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center – Sandstone

This one is located right on Grindstone Lake and is only 90 minutes from the Twin Cities. The Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center has 780 acres of space for you to host your wedding. Surrounded by pine trees and nature, this venue is truly for my outdoorsy couples. The center is also passionate about sustainability, which is something I care deeply about as well! They also have lodging options for guests.

6. Interstate State Park, Taylors Falls + Riverboats – St. Croix River

I’ve got first-hand experience with this one: I was at a wedding here right along the river. We may have had to walk down a steep hill 10 times just to get everything set up but let me tell you, it was well worth it. 

Not only is hosting a wedding at Taylor Falls unforgettable but if you host it outdoors, all you need is to pay for the proper permit—no extra venue fees required! Bonus: You have an entire state park (waterfalls included) to take your couple photos at. 

If you’re interested in the beauty of Taylors Falls but want a little bit more of an actual venue space, they also offer the “Taylors Falls Queen” riverboat.

7. Bluefin Bay – Tofte

Minnesota’s North Shore is one of the most beautiful places to exist—it’s really hard for me to put my feelings about it into words. While Bluefin Bay is not exactly right in the middle of a forest, the forest of Minnesota’s North Shore is a perfect backdrop for weddings and photos. The thing I love about this location is that it’s perfect for intimate weddings. It’s right on the shoreline of Lake Superior and holds up to 80 people, so it’s perfect for those couples seeking a smaller gathering. Don’t worry, you won’t have to dance out on the rocks; they have an amazing reception location just a few feet away from this Tofte Cove. 

8. Spirit Mountain – Duluth

Hosting your wedding at Spirit Mountain means you are quite literally on a mountain that overlooks Duluth and the St. Louis River Valley. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, you’re covered to make your happily ever after come true in any season!

9. Voyageurs National Park – International Falls

If you want those elopement vibes right here in Minnesota, then Voyageurs National Park could be an awesome contender. Known as “a park of water, islands, and horizons,” this spot has over 218,000 acres of land for you to pick your ceremony location. Similar to Taylor Falls, it has no expensive venue cost—only the permit cost for photography (and I can help walk you through this). 

The other great thing thing about Voyageurs National Park is that it’s still a bit of a hidden gem, which makes for a more exclusive feel for your forest wedding in Minnesota.

You can also plan fun activities like kayaking and stay at the Kettle Falls Hotel after your adventurous day which is only accessible via water. And, if you’re considering Canada for a honeymoon, you’d be right next door!

10. The Shire in the Woods – McGrath

This one might just be one of my favorites. The Shire in the Woods is located close to Mille Lacs and is right in the middle of the Solana State Forest. Like many of the spots I’ve listed, this venue is not just a venue, but it’s a complete getaway with the coziest cabins. Whether you want to stay with just your special person, or with your guests, there are 7 different cabins ranging in size and style. The Shire also has a farm with the cutest animals, so you’ll automatically have the coolest guests ever at your wedding! With trees, trails, and wildlife, it doesn’t get much better than this if you’re looking for the full outdoor, woodsy experience.

11. Pinewood – Cambridge

Pinewood offers a 10-acre property with a venue for your ceremony, a separate space for your reception, and other rooms for getting ready. You can get married indoors or outdoors with a gorgeous forested backdrop (pine trees stretching over 100 feet). This venue is perfect for year-round weddings, whether you’re looking for a summer or a winter experience.

12. The Black Lantern – Shevlin

The Black Lantern offers over 100 acres for your wedding or elopement. This space, located in Northern Minnesota, has indoor and outdoor venues, forest lodging, lake experiences, and countless trails. Depending on the package you choose, the entire property could be yours to use for your celebration day or weekend—perfect for those who value privacy. 

BONUS: Maidenwood – Stockholm, WI

This one isn’t technically in Minnesota, but I had to add this to my list of wedding venues in the forest! Maidenwood is absolutely stunning and is perfect for a fairytale wooded wedding. It’s located right across the border near Lake Pepin in Wisconsin. 

Eloping in Any Minnesota Forest: Tips and Planning

Okay, so what if you’re not looking for just one wedding forest venue in Minnesota or a specific forested spot? If it’s your style, you can just pick a forest in Minnesota and run with that. Some of my favorite elopements have been completely off the beaten path—just the couple, a few closest people if they choose, and the quiet beauty of the forest surrounding them.

Minnesota is home to 60 state forests and 2 national forests, including St. Croix State Forest, Superior National Forest, and Chippewa National Forest. Elopement ceremonies are totally doable in whichever one you choose. You don’t need a formal venue or specific private spot to make the day feel special.

Here’s what I’ve learned from photographing forest elopements that can help make your day unforgettable:

1. Permits and Permissions
Many forests require permits for ceremonies or photography, whether it’s just the two of you or a larger group. A quick call to the ranger station or checking the forest’s website usually clears up any questions. I can also help you navigate permits!

2. Accessibility Matters
Choose a spot that works for you, your partner, and any guests. Some trails are flat and easy, while others require a short hike. Knowing the terrain ahead of time makes the day much smoother.

3. Pack Smart
Without a traditional venue, you’ll need to bring your essentials:

  • Water & snacks
  • Blankets or chairs for seating
  • Bug spray and sunscreen
  • A small emergency kit
  • A bag to pack out all trash

4. Nearby Stays and Logistics
Even without renting a venue, you can turn your elopement into a full weekend adventure. Cabins, Airbnbs, or cozy lodges nearby give you a place to relax, celebrate, and enjoy the forest before and after your ceremony.

5. Timing and Lighting

The forest can look completely different depending on the time of day, so planning when you say your vows or take portraits is key. Golden hour creates soft, warm light that filters beautifully through the trees (which makes for the most magical photos, in my opinion). Midday light can be harsher, casting strong shadows, so if we’re shooting during that time, we might consider shaded areas or the forest canopy for even lighting (which shouldn’t be hard to find, considering there are trees everywhere!).

Why Get Married in a Forest?

There are many benefits to getting married outdoors, whether it’s a wedding or elopement. When you get married in a forest, aside from the sheer beauty of being surrounded by trees and nature, you can also look forward to these benefits:

  • You won’t need to spend time and energy on complex decorations—the forest is all you need!
  • Being surrounded by tall trees from every angle can foster a sense of intimacy, no matter how big or small your celebration.
  • It’s a good place to have a themed wedding. If you and your partner love the idea of enchanting fairytales or have a favorite fantasy story, the woods provide the perfect scenery to make these dreams come true.
  • Studies show that forests have health and well-being benefits!

FAQs About Forest Weddings and Elopements in Minnesota

Most state and national forests require permits for ceremonies or photography. Fees and rules vary, so check with the local office.
Absolutely! Many forests allow small, intimate elopements—you just need to follow regulations and leave no trace.
Spring and summer for greenery, fall for colorful leaves, and winter for snowy magic. Each season offers unique beauty.
Some locations have paved or easy trails, others require hiking. Always check trail conditions ahead of time.
Yes! Many vendors specialize in outdoor weddings and can bring portable equipment, flowers, and essentials.

Your Forest Wedding in Minnesota Awaits!

I hope looking at these awesome locations gets you excited about the idea of getting married in a forest. Forest weddings and elopements hold a special place in my heart—and I want you to know that you don’t have to travel far from the Midwest to get those magical woodsy vibes! If you’re thinking of getting married in any of these locations, and need a photographer to join you in this journey, reach out to me.

Hope to catch you out there in the forest!

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