Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve Permit Rules

Permits,
2 min read Feb 23, 2026

What You Need to Know

These rules apply to all ceremonies held within Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve and Sonoma Coast State Park. Park regulations are strictly enforced to protect this sensitive natural environment.

General Rules (All Ceremony Locations)

Day-Use Parking Fees

Fees are paid upon entry and are not included in your permit:

  • $10 per standard vehicle

  • $9 for seniors

  • $25 per van (10+ passengers)

  • $50 per bus

Alcohol

  • Alcohol is not permitted anywhere in the park.

Candles, Sparklers & Open Flames

  • Open flames of any kind are not permitted.

Music & Sound

  • No electrical service is available.

  • Amplified music is prohibited, except for a small battery-powered device (such as a phone).

  • Acoustic music may be allowed.

  • Sound must remain within your immediate ceremony area and may not carry beyond it.

Flowers & Décor

  • Flowers and greenery are allowed with limitations and must be pre-approved by your Simply Eloped Elopement Specialist.

  • Pampas Grass and Jubata Grass are strictly prohibited.

  • Nothing may be scattered on the ground.

  • Items that may spread non-native vegetation or disease (including feather grasses, lavender, berries, or ferns) are not permitted.

Throwing or Releasing Items

  • Throwing or releasing materials is prohibited, including:

    • Petals

    • Rice

    • Confetti or glitter

    • Balloons

    • Bubbles

    • Birdseed

    • Releasing animals (such as doves)

Pets

  • Pets are allowed on leash only.

Shared Public Space

  • All locations remain open to the public.

  • Your permit does not guarantee exclusive use of any ceremony site.

  • If another group is present, you must wait respectfully until the area is available.

Leave No Trace

  • All décor, personal items, and trash must be removed immediately after your event.

  • Trees, plants, rocks, and natural features may not be altered, attached to, or damaged.

Waterfalls Picnic Area (Small Ceremony Location)

On-Site Simply Eloped Representative

A Simply Eloped team member must be present. This may be:

  • Officiant

  • Photographer

  • Videographer

  • On-site helper

With the Orchid Package, an on-site helper is required as an add-on.

Shared Use

  • This area is shared with the public and is not exclusive, even when reserved.

Chairs & Décor

  • Chairs and approved décor are allowed.

Restrooms

  • Restrooms are located across the road from the picnic area.

Smokey’s Den (Larger Group Site)

Facilities Included

  • 16 large, unmovable picnic tables (seating up to 150)

  • Large BBQ grill

  • Water access

  • Garbage facilities

  • Nearby restrooms

Music & Power

  • No electrical service available.

  • Same sound restrictions apply as listed above.

Flowers & Greenery

  • Allowed with limitations and Coordinator approval.

  • Pampas and Jubata Grass prohibited.

  • Nothing may be scattered or left behind.

Final Notes

Park staff and rangers actively enforce regulations. Failure to comply may result in fines, permit revocation, or event interruption.

These rules help preserve the ancient redwood ecosystem and ensure all visitors can safely enjoy the park.

Permits
Written by Admin