With their combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and affordable rates, state parks offer endless opportunities for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience. Which is why my boo and I recently tied the knot at a state park in Florida, in my childhood hometown. Not only was it special to be in a place that meant so much to me, but the cost for the state park venue also left room in the wedding budget for other expenses.

When you start planning your state park wedding, here are some things to consider:

• Look for parks with historic buildings, mansions, or lodges for a vintage vibe
• Choose a park with dramatic natural features like waterfalls, canyons, beaches or ancient forests
• Opt for a secluded or lesser-known park for more privacy
• Incorporate the park’s scenery into your decor and theme
• Take advantage of on-site lodging like cabins or campgrounds to make it a full weekend event

Most state parks provide tables, chairs, and access to electricity and restrooms. Some even have lodges, cabins or campgrounds where guests can stay on-site, making it a full weekend event. This keeps things simple for you and your guests. Having the ceremony and reception in separate locations is common. Providing transportation is optional as most guests can navigate between the sites themselves, however some parks have solutions for this. For instance, our state park venue offered a wilderness boat ride between park and reception space.

With their combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and affordable rates, state parks offer endless opportunities for a one-of-a-kind wedding experience. Just be sure to secure the proper permits and follow all park regulations.

Here are some notable state parks that would make for an incredible wedding ceremony and add a unique element to your special day.