Situated along River Road in Montgomery County, Maryland, the McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area encompasses an expansive 2,000 acres, showcasing a blend of woodlands, fields, wooded bottomlands, and managed wetland impoundments, also known as green-tree reservoirs. This picturesque area borders the C&O Canal National Historical Park to the south and adjoins Seneca Creek State Park to the east.
The Purpose Behind the Sunflower Fields
Every spring, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources – Wildlife and Heritage Service plants sunflowers at McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area. These sunflowers play a crucial role in providing food for mourning doves and a variety of other wildlife species.
Beyond attracting mourning doves, the sunflowers and their seeds serve as a prized food source for numerous songbirds, mammals, and pollinators. The pollination process, primarily facilitated by insects such as bees, is essential for the sunflowers to yield seeds. Consequently, honey bees and a multitude of native bees benefit from the nectar and pollen produced during the blooming process.
Unfortunately, the advantages of these sunflowers can be undermined if they are cut or trampled by visitors. As these sunflowers are intended to benefit wildlife, strict regulations are in place to prevent the cutting, destruction, or removal of any plants in this area. While the public is encouraged to visit, enjoy, and photograph the vibrant sunflowers in bloom, it is essential that guests act responsibly to avoid causing harm.
Planting Process and Timing for the Sunflower Fields
The methods used to cultivate the sunflowers, along with the specific sunflower varieties planted, may change each year, as can the acreage and locations dedicated to these fields. Typically, sunflowers are sown in late April or early May. Various factors, including weather conditions, seed variety, weed competition, soil health, and herbivore impacts, influence when the plants will bloom. Given favorable circumstances, the sunflowers usually blossom by mid-July.
After the blooming period, which occurs in early to mid-August, strips within the sunflower fields are mowed to scatter the mature seeds on the ground, making them more accessible to mourning doves and other wildlife.
Optimal Time for a Visit
Given the popularity of the sunflower fields, weekdays often provide the most peaceful and enjoyable experience. For those opting for a weekend visit, it is advisable to be prepared for potential traffic congestion, particularly during peak blooming periods.
Regulations to Safeguard the Sunflower Fields
- Cutting down or removing any plants (including sunflowers) is strictly forbidden.
- Parking is permitted only in designated areas.
- Do not obstruct gates; violators may face towing and fines.
- Driving is restricted to main roads (River Road, Hunting Quarter Road, and Sycamore Landing Road); only authorized or emergency vehicles may access areas beyond the gates.
- Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
- Wildlife Management Areas are trash-free; visitors must take all litter with them as no bins are provided.
​Tips for a Rewarding Visit
- Facilities at McKee-Beshers WMA are limited; there are no restrooms, benches, or picnic tables, so please prepare accordingly.
- This area is home to ticks, mosquitoes, and poison ivy, making long pants, insect repellent, and closed-toed shoes advisable.
- Visitors should note that the trails consist of rough, unmaintained dirt or gravel and may be wet or muddy, making them unsuitable for strollers.
Getting to the Sunflower Fields
Visitors can access the McKee-Beshers Wildlife Management Area any time of day without an entrance fee or permit. However, please be aware that overnight camping is not allowed.
To reach the sunflower fields from the Capital Beltway, take Exit 39 (River Road) west toward Potomac. Travel for about 11 miles until you reach the intersection with MD 112, Seneca Road. Turn left and proceed on River Road for approximately 2.5 miles, where McKee-Beshers will be located on your left as you continue west.
​Download the Map here
GPS Coordinates for the Sunflower Fields
- Field 1 (River Road) – N39.080050, W-77.374460
- Field 2 (Hunting Quarter Road) – N39.079172, W-77.388253
- Field 3 (Sycamore Landing Road) – N39.084146, W-77.413121
Additional Tips for Enjoying the Sunflower Fields
- Be mindful that there are no restroom facilities, benches, or picnic tables available, so plan accordingly.
- The sunflower fields harbor ticks, mosquitoes, and poison ivy, making long pants and appropriate footwear advisable.
- Each field reaches its peak bloom at varying times, so plan your visit accordingly.
Experience Picking Your Own Sunflowers
Additionally, you can visit Butler’s Orchard in Germantown for their Sunflower Spectacular, taking place in mid-August. This event allows visitors to cut and take home their own sunflowers for enjoyment.
For the latest updates on sunflower bloom conditions, check the Maryland Department of Natural Resources website. While in the area, consider exploring nearby attractions such as the C&O Canal, trekking up Sugarloaf Mountain, or kayaking along the Potomac River with Calleva. If you’re seeking refreshments afterward, look for local wineries, breweries, and more along Montgomery County’s Tastemakers Trail.
