Weldon Spring Conservation Area Sunflowers

I’m going to let you in on a secret – it’s the Weldon Spring Conservation Area Sunflowers. Many people know about Columbia Bottoms, but I just don’t want to drive that far for 15 minutes for photos. We stumbled across the Weldon Spring Conservation Area sunflower fields a couple of years ago and it’s stunning. Missouri Department of Conservation plants a few fields and staggers them for peak blooming. We stopped by earlier this week and here are a few tips and tricks for planning your visit.

Tips for Visiting the Sunflower Fields

1. Bugs – You’re dealing with a patch of sunflowers. You’re going to come in contact with bees, lots of bees. You’ll also find other creepy crawlies there as well. If you don’t bother them, they won’t bother you. We want our pollinators to thrive and this is a great place for them to be. You can certainly pack bug spray.
2. Mud – With the strange weather we’ve been having lately, it’s definitely muddy. You’ll want to wear rainboots or a show that you can easily wash off. You may even want to bring a spare pair of shoes with you to drive home with.
3. Step Stool – We packed one just in case, I’m 5’4 and the sunflowers were right about my height. If you’re looking for your kiddos to be higher to the blooms, a step stool is a great idea.
4. Tripod/Remote Clicker – Oftentimes, I’m running solo on fun photos like these. I love a good tripod and remote clicker to get photos. As much as I’d love my kiddo to help out, getting comfortable with using a tripod and clicker has been a great way to capture content.

Other Considerations

1. Common Courtesy – As we move into peak photography season, there are many photographers who will be there snapping photos on a tight schedule. Consider the time of day you’re visiting and how that may impact your visit. We have gone early in the morning around 8 am and have had light traffic in the fields.
2. Safety – Always consider your surroundings.
3. Location – This is a conservation area with no amenities, so plan accordingly. Hours are open from 4 am – 10 pm daily.
4. Timing – Once you hear sunflowers are blooming – make your plan. They won’t last long!
5. Parking – Park alongside the fields for parking.

Directions

6990 S Missouri 94, St Charles, MO 63304

Look for this sign and turn left. You’ll go down a gravel hill and you’ll stay to the right. You’ll see the sunflowers right as you get to the bottom of the hill. There are also other fields further back down the same road.