What Is Recreational Land?
Recreational land—often called rec land—is a flexible land category that can be purchased for investment purposes, personal enjoyment, or both. Unlike agricultural or commercial land, recreational property gives owners greater autonomy, fewer restrictions, and the freedom to shape the land according to their goals and lifestyle.
Investing in recreational land allows you to:
- Control how the land is used
- Avoid strict timelines or crop‑related regulations
- Make decisions that align with your personal or financial objectives
- Enjoy the property while it appreciates in value
Because recreational land is so diverse, it’s important to consider a few key questions before purchasing:
- How will this property generate income?
- What improvements or maintenance will support long‑term appreciation?
- Are you tied to a specific region?
- Do you have the capital to enhance and maintain the land?
With income generation and long‑term value in mind, here are the primary types of recreational land to consider.
Types of Recreational Land
1. Hunting Tracts
Hunting land—whether for duck, turkey, or whitetail deer—is one of the most sought‑after recreational land types. These properties commonly generate income through hunting leases and often appreciate in value over time.
Owners may:
- Use the land exclusively for personal hunting
- Lease all hunting rights
- Lease rights to specific game species while retaining others
Example:
A landowner who hunts whitetail deer may keep those rights for personal use while leasing turkey hunting rights to another hunter. This approach maximizes income without compromising personal enjoyment.
Common improvements that increase value and lease rates include:
- Establishing food plots
- Building or improving trail systems
- Using trail cameras to document wildlife history
- Removing invasive vegetation
- Addressing erosion issues
- Adding fencing or gated access
These enhancements help maintain healthy wildlife populations and keep the property competitive in the leasing market.
2. Camping Properties
Recreational land suitable for camping—whether for private family use or a public campground/RV park—can be a strong investment. Location is critical.
Campgrounds thrive near existing attractions such as national parks, rivers, lakes, or popular outdoor recreation areas.
Key considerations for campground ownership:
- Facility improvements: Adding bathrooms, clearing underbrush, or conducting controlled burns can make the property more appealing.
- Wildlife protection: Campers may not understand local wildlife safety protocols, so clear guidelines and signage are essential.
- Seasonal income: During off‑peak months, owners may supplement revenue through hunting leases or timber contracts.
3. ATV & Off‑Road Land
ATV‑friendly land appeals to both private owners and entrepreneurs interested in creating public ATV parks.
Important considerations:
- Trail construction and ongoing maintenance are major expenses
- Income typically comes from access fees or memberships
- Areas unsuitable for ATV use can be leased for hunting
- Seasonal shifts (e.g., winter slowdowns) can be offset with hunting leases
This dual‑use approach helps maximize the land’s highest and best use.
4. Other Recreational Land Opportunities
Recreational land is limited only by the owner’s creativity. Popular uses include:
- Guided hunting tours
- Lakefront or riverfront leases
- Fishing access
- Horseback riding trails
- Nature retreats
- Event or retreat spaces
Example of multi‑use optimization:
A hunting property with mature timber can be selectively thinned. This improves biodiversity, enhances wildlife habitat, and generates income from timber sales—all while increasing the property’s long‑term value.
Having a clear plan before purchasing ensures you select a property that aligns with your goals and maximizes your return.
Risks of Investing in Recreational Land
Like any investment, recreational land carries risks. Raw, undeveloped land is often more affordable but may not generate immediate income or appreciate as expected.
Potential risks include:
- Unexpected development or maintenance costs
- Economic downturns
- Natural disasters
- Market fluctuations
Conducting due diligence and consulting experts can help mitigate these risks and strengthen your investment strategy.
Rewards of Investing in Recreational Land
Despite the risks, recreational land offers compelling advantages—most notably appreciation.
- Land is finite, and demand continues to rise.
- Approximately 175 acres of farm and ranchland are lost every hour to urban development, increasing scarcity.
- Land historically holds or increases its value over time.
- From 2021 to 2022, the USDA reported an average land appreciation rate of 12.4%.
Recreational land also provides non‑financial rewards:
Walking your property, spending time with family and friends, and enjoying outdoor hobbies while your asset grows in value.
Final Thoughts
Recreational land offers a unique blend of enjoyment, flexibility, and long‑term wealth‑building potential. With countless ways to use and improve it, rec land can be tailored to your goals—whether you’re seeking income, appreciation, personal fulfillment, or all three.
When approached with a clear plan and informed strategy, recreational land truly becomes an opportunity where the world is your oyster.