14 Camping Wedding Ideas That Make the Case for a Woodsy Celebration
Make everyone a happy camper on your wedding day.
Maybe you and your future spouse simply want a unique and whimsical wedding theme. Perhaps you guys have spent a lot of your courtship finding the best places to camp in the National Parks. Or there are those of you who have childhood sleepaway camps to thank for your fated meet-cutes back in the day. Whatever the case, we’re of the firm belief that engaged folks can never go wrong with a camping-themed wedding. What does that mean exactly? It could be saying “I do” at a glamping destination or throwing a rustic wedding in the woods.
There are so many ways to spin a camp-themed wedding. We’re talking custom camping flags commemorating your shared last name, creative escort cards, and true-to-theme invitations to rally your fellow campers. Add a layer of country wedding themed ideas with bales of hay thrown into the mix, or add a dash of bohemian flair with a festival camp theme. With nature as your backdrop, the setting is bound to be lovely. Whether you have your sights set on a summer camp-themed soiree or a vow exchange at your favorite campground, these ideas will have you saying "I do" to the idea of woodsy nuptials, and your wedding will set the scene for a lifetime of camping happily ever after.
Decor Inspired by Camping Accessories
Take inspiration from that bandana tied around your neck while on your hiking trail, and turn it into a sweet garland to hang above a table or bar. Simply cut star shapes from new or vintage bandanas (stiffen with Mod Podge if desired), tack to string, and hang from branches.
Pull From Your Surroundings
Surrounded by the natural elements while camping can be all the inspiration you need! Turn some of those surroundings into something useful at your wedding, like these rock name cards which are the perfect mix of simple and rustic. Bonus: They're free if you forage for some smooth ones!
Camping Wedding Invitations
Your wedding stationery sets the tone for your nuptials, so why not go full-on camp theme from the get-go, hiking-trail-inspired map and all? We're loving how the photographer of this invitation suite hit the natural ambiance on the head with an earthy backdrop.
Photo by Briars Atlas
Gear Table Decorations
You'd never leave home without your camping essentials, right? The same holds true for your campground wedding decor. Dress up your tablescape with everything from enamelware mugs to pretty lanterns—and plants and flowers are a given.
Photo by Alissa Saylor Photography
Pretty Picnic Tables
Among the many perks associated with a campground wedding, you don't have to mess with fussy table rentals. Set up shop atop the site's picnic tables, and add a few rustic touches with a cozy tablecloth and baskets.
Photo by Noelle Johnson Photography
Canoe Bar
Let's be honest—who wouldn't want to grab a brew from the hull of a canoe? You can also choose to leave the stern covered as a makeshift table for other bar beverages.
Photo by Michelle Lea Photographie
Outdoor-Inspired Wedding Cake
Hit your wedding guests where it counts: the sweet tooth. This three-layer beauty truly has it all, from the tree bark-inspired base to the moose topper to the wood stand. Once you've done the cake-cutting honors, expect happy campers all around.
Photo by Kaoverii Silva Photography, Event Design by Filosophi Events, Workshop by Camp Collective, Cake by Cora's Cake Shop
Family Tree
Who needs walls to hang decor when you have trees? Capitalize on Mother Nature's offerings and give literal meaning to a family tree by showing off sweet framed photos as guests make their way to the ceremony.
Photo by Molliner Photography
Camp Trailer Bar
Believe it or not, a simple trailer can make a huge statement at the campsite—especially when it doubles as the bar. Companies like Tinker Tin provide vintage rentals just for the occasion, or you and your spouse can easily make do with a well-loved version you already own.
Photo by Victoria Carlson Photography
Creative Escort Cards
To take escort cards up a notch, pair the slips of paper with camping-friendly mugs (hello, wedding favor) hanging from snap hook links.
Photo by Ashton Kelley Photography
Pit Stop
This couple's nuptials allude to the carefree days of sleepaway camp, which they bring to life via custom flags and mini lanterns. Their pre-ceremony crate fixtures also feature an outdoor wedding must-have–insect repellant.
Photo by Vein + Vessel Photography
Picture-Perfect Setting
Of course, with a wedding venue this astounding, taking advantage of the scenic backdrops with your photographer in tow is a no-brainer. Follow in the footsteps of this couple, who stopped for a quick frame-worthy shot at their venue's striking dock.
Photo by Debs Alexander Photography
S'mores Station
Camping and s'mores are about as compatible as you and your soon-to-be spouse. Invite guests to create their own ooey, gooey, marshmallowy creations around the campfire after dinner's been served.
Photo by James & Jess Photography
Rustic Table
For summer camp enthusiasts, take inspiration from this reception table setup, which puts a mature spin on the playful mess hall ambience you know and love.
Photo by Jen + Shane Photography
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