I love Ohio. I was born and raised here and chose to raise my family here. I travel across the country to photograph epic weddings and elopements in beautiful locations, but I’m always happy to come home to Ohio.

Now that I have proclaimed my love for the Midwest and focus my wedding and elopement photography in Ohio, let’s dive right in to explore some of the coolest places for elopements!

My Favorite Places to Elope in Ohio

Dunlap Hollow – Woodsy Elopements

Damn, this place is amazing! Dunlap Hollow’s unique modern retreat in the rustic heart of Hocking Hills.

This beautiful modern A-frame is surrounded by tall pines and stunning rock faces, with breathtaking views of sandstone cliffs, a lush green forest, and a trickling stream flowing through the ravine. You’ll have access to several impressive trails too! It fits up to ten guests with three bedrooms, a loft, six beds, and two bathrooms. Plus, there’s a six-person hot tub and all those incredible windows!

Seriously, elope here and take me with you!

Keep scrolling to see the rest of my recommendations to Elope in Ohio!

Hocking Hills, Ohio

If you love to hike then Hocking Hills is the spot for you. VERY rural, miles and miles of hiking trails, and centrally located.

There are also a ton of options in terms of cabins to stay in. From luxury to rustic, it has just about everything you could imagine. I am partial to the A-frame houses. Just imagine getting married in front of a beautiful A-frame under a canopy of trees in the middle of the forest. Then spending the day hiking or relaxing or whatever the hell you want to do!

Here are some of the coolest rentals to choose from:

Dunlap Hollow
See above for my rave review!

Location: 24190 Dunlap Rd, Rockbridge, OH 43149

The Box Hop

The Box Hop is a collection of unique rental homes built from shipping containers and designed for a modern take on cabin life. There are 6 equally unique and charming woodsy options for your Ohio elopement.

The OG Box Hop: The original home, built in 2018, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a full kitchen, a gas fireplace, and a rooftop patio

The BoHo Box: A more intimate setting that can sleep four people

The Hygge Box Hop: A Danish-inspired, modern retreat with a Scandinavian theme

The Overlook Box Hop: A home with open concept living on the top floor that overlooks Hocking Hills

The Roca Box Hop: An eclectic, whimsical fairytale home with a waterfall nearby

The Ellwood Box Hop: A mid-century bungalow suspended over a waterfall

Location: Rockbridge, OH 43149

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Yes, Ohio DOES have a national park. And it is pretty legit. And big. And has waterfalls, trains, miles of trails, and a couple houses/cabins to rent for elopement. It is within close proximity to Akron and Cleveland which means opportunities for fancy dinners out, site seeing, and shopping before or after you say “I do.”

There are only two overnight accommodations you can book through the official national park website, neither of which really excite me. Luckily, private property owners have stepped up with some awesome options for visitors. I recommend checking out VRBO & Airbnb to see options and availability!

Mohican River – Loudonville, Ohio

I have been going to Mohican / Loudonville for several decades to camp and kayak the river. There is something about this place that just puts me at ease. I love the whole vibe here and I am a sucker for long winding rivers.

Can you even imagine getting married in the morning and then spending the afternoon floating down the river in a tube with a couple of beers? Best day ever.

Beyond the river, Loudonville has a state park with miles of trails and a beautiful covered bridge if you are into that sort of thing. There is also no shortage of unique places to stay or get married at in this area.

The Mohicans Treehouses
As a photographer, I’m thrilled to share the magic of The Mohicans Treehouse Resort & Wedding Venue. Nestled on 75 wooded acres, it’s the perfect spot for elopements, offering an elegant and captivating outdoor experience.

The two-story timber frame venue, surrounded by towering hardwoods and pines, features hand-hewn logs and beautiful hardwood flooring. The expansive solid oak staircase leads to a mezzanine with a balcony that overlooks the stunning ceremony space below. The refined rustic aesthetic here is truly inspiring, making it an unforgettable backdrop for your special day.”

Location: 23164 Vess Road Glenmont, OH 44628