Iowa is full of hidden gems, and sometimes you’ll find a scene that’s absolutely breathtaking hidden in the most unexpected spot. Anyone who visits Badger Creek State Recreation Area in the middle of the summer knows exactly what it’s like to stumble upon beauty hidden in quite an odd spot.

The expansive Badger Creek State Recreation Area in Van Meter is known for being one of the best spots for hunting and fishing in the Hawkeye State.
Google Local / Caesar's Aerial Photography
Ever summer, starting in July, you'll find a crowd of visitors flocking to Badger Creek for something a little more scenic than a deer hunt.
Google Local / Adam Brucker
Thousands of towering sunflowers pop up in a new spot each year. Acres and acres of bright and cheerful flowers are sure to bring a smile to anyone who tracks down the most popular sunflower field in Iowa.
Google Local / Steve Stonehocker

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Many photographers make Badger Creek their summer home, as the portrait and nature photography options are endless! For others, Instagram selfies and photos for scrapbooks capture the moment just right.
Google Local / Seeta MS
These blooms attract pollinators - in fact, that's why they're planted! The field is harvested every year before dove hunting season, so be sure to stop by and see rows and rows of sunflowers before they're gone by early September.
Google Local / Tony Tandeski
You would never expect to find such a stunning sight tucked away in this recreation area that's mostly used for hunting, but visiting the sunflowers of Badger Creek has become a yearly tradition for many Iowans.
Google Local / Tony Tandeski
Make plans to stop by Badger Creek State Recreation Area to find a gorgeous sunflower field in Iowa where you'll be able to snap a few photos to help you remember this sight year after year.
Google Local / Carter Yerkes

This beautiful summertime sunflower field in Iowa only sticks around for a few weeks, so come out to see it before it’s gone for the year!

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Badger Creek State Park, 120th St, Van Meter, IA 50261, USA