Along the flood plains of the Missouri River is Columbia Bottom Conservation Area. The natural area is situated in North St. Louis and consists of large loop with trailheads that veer off, boat ramps to access the river, and nice of views of the topography. Columbia Bottom is known primarily for bird watching, plain topography, and sunflowers. Each summer for a couple of weeks, there are fields of large, beautiful sunflowers that burst open. Although the flowers are beautiful, Columbia Bottom Conservation Area is just as lovely for the opportunity to explore the floor plain ecosystem. For those in the St. Louis area, the natural area provides a nice little respite in St. Louis.