How to Get Married in Bishop, California

Bishop, just south of Mammoth Lakes, is a premiere outdoorsy town with the fitting slogan: “Small town with a big backyard.” Surrounded by world-class climbing, epic peaks, alpine lakes, and rolling high desert, it’s a dream for outdoor lovers—and romantic couples hoping to get married in all the majesty this area has to offer!

Yes, for couples wanting nature, adventure, and laid-back vibes on their wedding day, Bishop delivers. Here’s how to make the most of your Bishop, California wedding day.

Wedding Permits for Bishop, California

The areas around Bishop are mostly public land and forest service land. With so much variety, it’s important to hire an elopement photographer with knowledge of the area, so you know which permits to apply for.

In general, permits for the area range from $0-200, but it really depends on where you’re getting married, how many people are coming, and whether you’ll have decor at the ceremony. 

Are you two planning a larger wedding? Skip the permit process and book a local venue—trust me! More on that below.

Where to Get Married in Bishop

Lakes, boulders, mountains, valleys, meadows, cute venues, and so much more. With so much variety in the Eastern Sierra, how do you decide? Did you even consider that the areas around Bishop range from 4,000 to 11,000 feet in elevation? Don’t worry, I’ll walk you through your wedding and elopement options for Bishop and the surrounding areas.

Generally speaking, indoor venues often provide more services, which is helpful if you have guests (especially a lot of guests). Outdoor areas are a personal favorite because of their natural splendor (and obviously a top pick for elopers). Just know that your big day is more vulnerable to the elements and some areas have restrictions on the number of guests, what you can bring, and leave-no-trace policies. In either case, you’ll have an amazing time!

Outdoor Locations Near Bishop

  • Lower Elevation: The lower elevation spots in Bishop are actually in what’s known as a “high desert.” That means more flora and fauna similar to a desert and warmer temps—but still with those classic mountain views. You’ll also find rivers and world-class climbing; which is a major draw for Bishop’s outdoor tourism.

  • Higher Elevation: In the summer, you can access some of the highest peaks of the Sierra. Traveling west out of Bishop will bring you to forests, alpine lakes and rivers, and epic granite mountains. Due to the nature of high-elevation and lake-based locations, these areas are perfect for smaller events, like elopements and micro-weddings. If you are an adventurous couple, you might even consider a big-time hike to a very private area.

  • Mammoth Lakes: Bishop’s big neighbor to the north, Mammoth is known more for its winter sports but still with a ton of variety; waterfalls included. 

  • Alabama Hills: A picturesque area with rolling boulders leading up to California’s tallest mountain—Mt Whitney. This area has an eclectic history, even appearing in some Western movies and sci-fi TV shows.

Venues

  • Eastside Guest House: Locals call it the “Bivy”. This spot is perfect because there are rooms to book, a grass area perfect for a reception, and an indoor area for seating. Located right on Main Street in Bishop and within walking distance of all the town has to offer. 

  • Bishop Elks Park Event Center: An events space in the heart of Bishop. With a green lawn, kitchen, bar, restrooms, parking, ​​campsites, fire-pit, a lighted patio, a creek, and fishing. 

  • Cardinal Village Resort: Just outside of Bishop in the community of Aspendell. A DIY wedding venue with pizza, cabins, and more. Easy access to one of the most beautiful stretches of mountains in the Eastern Sierra.

  • Convict Lake Resort: This spot is a classic. The full wedding venue features a grove of aspens for the ceremony and a large outdoor area for the reception. Convict Lake is a medium drive away, and there are plenty of cabins to stay in.

  • Parchers Resort: Near the beautiful South Lake, this high-elevation spot has cabins to rent and lake access for a ceremony. 

Pro tip—Have a small ceremony on public lands followed by a reception/party at a venue after. 

Bonus Spots

Bishop is nestled within California’s expansive Eastern Sierra region—a stunning stretch of mountains running along the state’s eastern edge. This area spans from the high alpine landscapes near Lake Tahoe all the way down to the Mojave Desert.

If you're exploring the larger region, here are a few other must-see spots that fall within the Eastern Sierra corridor. Here are some other options that fall into the area. 

  • Death Valley National Park: The southernmost end of Highway 395, this spot is perfect for outdoor weddings with amazing desert-scapes. 

  • Yosemite National Park: Yosemite total deserves the praise it gets—and then some! In case you weren’t aware, you can get married in various spots in the park with similar views to the Eastern Sierra. 

  • Lake Tahoe: There are tons of amazing spots around California’s largest lake to say “I do.”

Bring Your Dog to Your Bishop Elopmenet or Wedding

These days, more and more couples are bringing their furry friends to their wedding. But not every place allows them, especially National and State Parks. That makes Bishop and the Eastern Sierra a great place to bring your dogs!


Most of the area allows dogs and other pets on leashes. Check each spot to ensure you are following rules and regulations, but know that Bishop is a prime spot for a pet-based wedding or elopement

Keep Bishop Clean: Leave No Trace

It’s a catch-22 that some of the most lovely outdoor places are also the most impacted. If you’re familiar with Bishop, California, you know that both the local population and tourists are on the rise.

It’s super cool that people enjoy the area and are finding ways to get outside. But it’s vital to follow Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines and protect the land.

Keep these guidelines in mind when visiting Bishop and the Eastern Sierra:

  1. Pack it in, pack it out. Take trash with you, even orange peels

  2. Dispose of waste in proper receptacles

  3. Obey signs if they tell you to stay on the trail. Alpine areas can be delicate

  4. Don’t disturb local flora and fauna, and don’t feed animals

  5. Watch where you step—don’t crush the brush

  6. Don’t set fires if there’s a ban

When to Get Married in Bishop

As a California local, I’ve heard the myth that California doesn’t have seasons more times than I can count. But on the East side, you get all four, loud and clear! From snowy winters to golden fall colors, wildflower-filled springs to warm summer nights, Bishop lets you pick the perfect season to match your wedding vibe. 

Here’s a quickie guide to season in Bishop, CA:

  • Spring: A variable time in the mountains. Rain? Heat? Who knows. All we know is that late spring brings peak mountain weather, meaning there’s a lot of uncertainty. That being said, this is a great time to visit lower- and mid-elevation spots because the weather will be beautiful. 

  • Summer: Bishop proper is a high-desert, meaning it gets hot in the summer! Heat is relative, but expect highs near 90-100º during the summer. If you can’t handle the heat but still want to get hitched during this time, those higher-elevation spots will be ideal. In fact, summer brings full lakes, vibrant greenery, and wildflowers to those higher-elevation spots, so it's one of the best times to visit the mountains!

  • Winter: Winter weather tends to be lighter here than some of the other areas of the Sierra due to its lower elevation. That being said, the higher elevation spots to the east of town are often inaccessible due to snow. So if that’s important, come back in late May. 

  • Fall: Here’s where the seasons come in! Bishop is full of fall colors in autumn. Crowds are high due to this, but there are so many spots to check out that you’ll be sure to find some amazing leaves.

Lodging: Where to Stay in Bishop, California

Bishop is a small, unincorporated town. Stay options are limited, but make sure to pursue the surrounding areas as well. 

Bishop Proper

In the Mountains

Getting Around (Planes and Cars)

Bishop is considered remote for California, so a car is definitely the best to get around. Most beautiful spots are accessible without a 4x4, which is nice. However, there are spots down dirt roads so you’ll need at least a high-clearance vehicle or a car that can handle some bumps. 

Flying in? Here are the options:

  • Mammoth Yosemite Airport, Mammoth Lakes, CA: 40 minutes from Bishop, has limited flights.

  • Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas, NV: 5 hour drive, this is a good option in the winter when driving from the south is easiest.

  • LAX, Los Angeles, CA: 5 hour drive, this is a good option in the winter when driving from the south is easiest. Expect traffic out of Los Angeles. 

Fun Activities for Your Eastern Sierra Wedding

Your wedding day is so much more than exchanging rings. It’s an opportunity to celebrate your love however you see fit. For some couples, that might be popping champagne bottles and having a picnic by the lake. For others, it might mean getting their wedding attire dirty during a hike through the forests. It’s really up to you!

If you’re the kind of couple that loves an adventure, Mammoth Lakes has tons of options. I’ll list a few below, or check out this blog for even more ideas:

  • Paddleboarding or kayaking: Paddle after your ceremony! It’s a great way to experience the many alpine lakes in the area.

  • Fishing: You can fish in the many lakes and rivers in and around Bishop.

  • Campfire & S’mores: End the wedding day at your campsite or hotel with a roaring campfire. Pro tip: Always check fire restrictions.

  • Climbing: Bishop is famous for its climbing, especially bouldering. Hope over to the classic climbing spots with your wedding outfit on

  • Horseback Riding: Not about walking or driving? Rent a horse or mule and ride around town. 

  • Hiking or backpacking: With tons of front and backcountry spots to choose from. 

  • Dirt biking: Hop on your OHV and ride off into the sunset for some stellar dusty wedding photos.

  • Picnics: Want a relaxing outdoor experience? Have a picnic surrounded by your choice of natural beauty.

Hiring Vendors in Bishop, California

Bishop is small, which means finding vendors can be more challenging. Luckily you can check out vendors from the surrounding areas like Mammoth Lakes, or spots on the way from where you’re driving from. It’s important to keep in mind that there may be travel fees involved with hiring people who don’t live in town. 

Vendors We Love in Bishop

Alpenglow Gardens | Bad Dog Farms | House of Rummage

Best Advice for Getting Married in Bishop

  • Be flexible: This area is prone to changes in weather, especially in the last five years. Weather in winter and spring can be erratic, with snowstorms and windstorms. Chains can be mandatory in the winter while summer is prone to fire season.

  • Support local businesses: Bishop and the surrounding towns offer a vibrant local culture. So take advantage of it!

  • Lean into the rustic vibes: Bishop is a very small town. Services and vendors are limited in the area. But what you get in return is the beautiful natural area. Lean into the rustic vibes!

  • Ask for local recommendations: Bishop is a small town with a big personality. Which means the locals all have their favorite spots, some of which they are more than happy to share with visitors. Feel free to ask about recommendations for food, hiking, and other activities. You never know what gems you might discover!


Bishop, CA Wedding Examples

Book Your Bishop Wedding Photographer

As a California-born photographer, the Eastern Sierra holds a special place in my heart. I’ve been traveling to this region for over six years, and I spend most of my summers here, deepening my connection with the landscape and discovering new, breathtaking spots each season. Whether it’s a two-person elopement, a rugged adventure wedding, or a joyful ceremony with your closest people—I’m here to capture the love and magic of your day in one of the most beautiful places on earth.

Need a Bishop wedding photographer to capture all of the magic? Book with Love & Latitudes Outdoor Wedding and Elopement Photography today!

Bishop Wedding Photographer

+ 4-8+ hours of coverage

+ Planning and vendor services

+ Location assistance

+ Online gallery with high-resolution photos

+ Option to download images or purchase prints online

+ Travel fees included, minus permits

+ Optional officiant services.

Meet Your Bishop Photographer

I'm Diana Lustig, a California-born adventurer with a camera for a hand and an inborn love for the outdoors. I'm a professional photographer of 15 years and counting. In my free time you'll find me traveling with my husband in our van, Clyde. The Eastern Sierra is where we spend most of our summers—paddle boarding in alpine lakes and peak-bagging. 

How did I get into wedding and elopement photography? In 2019, I hired adventure photographers for my own wedding and they showed me there’s a different, more personal way to get married. It was such a special day, I want to bring it to so many more couples who believe in getting married their own way.

Let’s Chat About Your Bishop Wedding

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