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by Anna Culver

Sunflowers in full bloom at Draper Wildlife Management Area in McConnells, SC


photo by @laurareister

The 20+ acres of sunflower fields at Draper Wildlife Management Area in York County are currently at peak bloom and will last through the weekend (July 10-12). They typically bloom around the last week of June, with peak lasting for two weeks.

Expect a ~40 min drive from Fort Mill to 1080 Brattonsville Rd. McConnells, SC. It’s free to visit and open from dawn until dusk. Please keep these tips in mind from the SC Dept. of Natural Resources:

  • Do not pick, cut, knockdown, or otherwise damage the sunflowers as they are food for mourning doves and other wildlife species.

  • The sunflowers are planted as a habitat management practice to provide a quality dove hunt for S.C. hunters.

  • Please be respectful and follow all rules on the public fields and obey all laws concerning trespassing on private fields.

  • Each year around this time, people from all over visit Draper WMA, so please continue to practice social/physical distancing and wear a mask when needed.

  • Additionally, due to COVID-19, the kiosk sign-in is closed.

Tips from Fort Mill Now:

  • Pack water, sunscreen, and bug spray.

  • Be prepared to be around bees.

  • The best time to visit is early morning or late evening when the sun isn't blazing, the flowers aren't wilting in the heat, and the lighting is perfect for pictures.

Historic Brattonsville is currently closed due to COVID-19, but next year, be sure to make a full day out of your trip and visit the 775-acre Revolutionary War site!

Continue to tag us in your photos on Instagram using #fortmillnow!

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