The sunflower fields at Columbia Bottom adjacent to Confluence State Park. Gov. Mel Carnahan arranged the purchase of the 4,200-acre flood plain from St. Louis City and Country in 1997. The area is operated by the Missouri Department of Conservation. Farmers have an opportunity to raise crops on the rich, fertile ground 
A Sunny Sunday
Last weekend Robin called to see if I wanted to go with her and JC to see the sunflowers. They’ve biked, hiked, and canoed in the Confluence State Park and Columbia Bottom area and knew about the sunflower fields. It turned out to be a great way to spend a mask-less COVID afternoon in the fresh air.
Follow the sunflower signs to Columbia Bottom, to see the large plantings of the bright yellow flowers. The roads are quite dusty, so plan to wash your car after you go rather than before.
Small boat going up river on the Missouri.
From this deck visitors get a bird’s eye view of the sunflower fields. (Photo: Missouri Department of Conservation)
Like Monet and Van Gogh, a field of such beauty can make you want to take up oil painting. (Monet below)
Some bow their heads while others excitedly spread their petals.
