Where to find the sunflowers at Badger Creek Park
For 2024, the sunflowers have been planted on the west side of the lake and we are hearing that they will remain on the west side through 2029. However, that does not mean they will be planted in the same exact spot each year – just that they will be located on the west side of the lake.
Exactly where are the sunflowers located at Badger Creek Park for 2024?
Address with a link to the exact Google location: 2650 120th Street, Van Meter, Iowa 50261
Some folks have reported that this address doesn’t work for their GPS, you could also ask for the intersection of Quail Ridge Ave and 120th Street, Van Meter, Iowa.
Where do I park?
Parking is located across the street – but there are only a few parking spots available, so if the field has lots of visitors (which it typically does during early evening/sunset), then parking may be a challenge.
Do I have to drive on gravel to get to this location?
Yes, you will travel several miles on gravel roads to get to the sunflower field.
Is there a cost to visit the Iowa DNR sunflower fields?
No. However, the DNR certainly would appreciate help in supporting the work on habitats like the sunflower fields. Visit the Iowa DNR website to purchase a habitat stamp. You’ll find it under the hunting licenses and runs $15, which will help support the DNR for planting food sources like the sunflower fields.
How long will the sunflowers bloom?
The sunflowers in most DNR plots are very short-lived – 10 to 14 days total depending on weather. They typically bloom around the 3rd week of July and are typically done around August 1st.
What’s the best time of day to visit?
If you want the field to yourself or minimal crowds – then early morning is the best time to visit. The early morning also offers the coolest temperatures. The middle of the day is typically not very busy, but it is also the went the field is least comfortable, as the temperatures in late July are usually hot and when its hot – the sunflower field is even hotter.
The one-hour time before sunset, known as the “golden hour” is typically when the field will be the busiest. Once the sun hits the horizon, most of the families and photographers will leave.
Is there a bathroom onsite?
No. There are no restroom facilities nearby at all. Please plan accordingly.
What can I expect when visiting the sunflower field?
- Lots of Bees. Talk with your kids to make sure they are aware that bees will be present. They are the large jumbo sized bumble bees and they are not there for you, they are only interested in the flowers.
- Lots of other bugs. Seriously, LOTS OF BUGS.
- If there’s no wind, walking through the field is hot, humid, and buggy. Although the fields might be beautiful to view, the environment during a hot summer day is certainly not glamorous.
Is there a path to walk through the field?
No. There are no pathways created through the field.
Why isn’t there a path to walk through the field? Why isn’t there a bathroom?
There are no prebuilt paths and no bathrooms because the flowers were not planted for Instagram account. Yes, that’s correct, the purpose of the field was not for public viewing. The sunflower field is a food plot for doves, meant to attract them for hunting season. Yes, this field is a public hunting ground and the sunflowers attract doves. Hunting season for doves begins Sept 1st.
How can I help the Iowa DNR support these plots?
Visit the Iowa DNR website to purchase a habitat stamp. You’ll find it under the hunting licenses and runs $15, which will help support the DNR for planting food sources like the sunflower fields.
Are there other sunflower fields that have parking, bathrooms, and have a clear pathway through the field?
Yes, there a number of commercial farms that feature sunflowers that provide a less rigorous trip, especially for young children or grandparents. Check out our full list of commercial farms that feature sunflowers.
