Sunflowers, Wildlife, and Family Photos? Yes, Please!
Have you heard the buzz about the sunflower fields at Draper Wildlife Management Area near Rock Hill? If your family is looking for a free outdoor adventure with serious photo potential, this summer stop is worth the drive.
These fields are only in bloom for a short window — usually from late June through mid-July, depending on the weather — so don’t wait too long!
Why Are There So Many Sunflowers?
We see the question pop up in local mom groups every year: “Where can we take family photos with flowers?” The sunflower fields at Draper WMA come up again and again — and for good reason.
The fields are planted by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (DNR), but not for photo ops. The sunflowers are actually grown to attract doves (and other wildlife) for hunting season prep. But while they bloom, the public gets to enjoy the view — completely free!
You’ll likely spot deer, turkey, quail, and more while you’re there.
Getting There (Without Getting Lost)
Here’s where it gets tricky. If your GPS takes you to a locked gate and you see other cars looking equally confused — you’re close, but not quite there yet.
📍 Use this address:
1080 Draper Road, McConnells, SC 29726
🚫 Do not use:
1080 Brattonsville Road (even if it shows up in your map app — that’s a different spot!)
Once you turn in at the correct entrance, follow the road back to the parking area. You’ll see signs pointing to two sunflower fields:
- Right Side: Smaller youth field (also stocked fishing ponds!)
- Left Side: Main sunflower fields — this is where the photo magic happens
🎣 Bonus Tip: Got a fishing license? Bring your rods and enjoy the ponds too!
Once you enter the gated area at Draper WMA, drive straight back to the main parking lot. From there, you’ll spot signs and two trails — one heading left and one to the right.
The right path leads to the smaller youth field, which has some sunflowers and even a few stocked fishing ponds. 🎣 If someone in your family has a fishing license, go ahead and pack those poles — it’s a great bonus activity while you’re there!
But if you’re after the big, bold sunflower views, head left from the parking area. You won’t see the fields right away, but don’t worry — it’s just a short, easy hike down the trail before the flowers come into view. Get your camera ready!
Make It a Day Trip
The fields are located near Historic Brattonsville, a living history site with 18th-century buildings and reenactments. While it wasn’t the main destination this time, it’s definitely worth exploring while you’re in the area!
Enjoying The Sunflowers: Draper WMA Sunflower Fields
Sunflower Season Recap 🌻
- Bloom Time: Typically late June–mid-July, usually peak in early July
- Cost: Free!
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Other Activities: Hiking, fishing (with a license), bird watching
- Accessibility: Not stroller-friendly; terrain is uneven
Follow SC DNR and Visit York County on social media for bloom updates.
If you want to have professional photos taken here, the good news is there’s no extra fee! While commercial farms make money off the sales of flowers and the charging of photo shoot fees, you’ve already paid it in the form of taxes!
Want to pick the flowers?
There’s lots to do this summer!
