At Whitaker Marketing Group, we’ve seen firsthand how the land market continues to evolve across Iowa and the surrounding states. While productive farmland remains the foundation of our business, a new and growing trend has taken shape: the rise of recreational land buyers. More individuals and families are now seeking land not just for farming, but for hunting, fishing, ATV riding, camping, and residential living opportunities. This shift is shaping the way land is marketed, sold, and valued in the Midwest—and it’s creating new opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
Why Recreational Land is Gaining Momentum
1. Lifestyle Matters More Than Location
Buyers today are prioritizing lifestyle and recreation over traditional land use. For many, owning land means creating a private retreat where they can escape city life and enjoy hunting, fishing, or simply time with family outdoors. A survey from the Realtors Land Institute (RLI) found that recreational tracts are one of the fastest-growing land sectors, as buyers increasingly want properties that support “camping, hunting, ATV riding, or just escaping the city”
2. Growing Market Values
Recreational land isn’t just about lifestyle—it’s proving to be a solid investment. In nearby Illinois, Agriculture.com reported that recreational land averaged about $6,600 per acre in 2024, with some sales reaching $7,500 per acre. Similarly, Missouri Ag Connection highlighted that timberland and recreational properties showed some of the most notable increases in value last year, while cropland values remained steady. Here in Iowa, we’ve seen the same upward momentum. Tracts with hunting opportunities, CRP income, and building potential often draw multiple bidders and sell at premiums compared to similar land without those features.
3. Limited Supply, High Demand
Across Iowa and the Midwest, recreational parcels with timber, water features, or convenient access remain limited. When these properties hit the market, competition is strong. Reports from Agriculture.com highlight that demand for recreational land has outpaced supply in many regions, with buyers often competing for mid-sized tracts between 30 to 80 acres.
4. The Appeal of Income + Enjoyment
Recreational buyers in Iowa are often seeking properties that serve more than one purpose. Land enrolled in CRP (Conservation Reserve Program) or those with rental income potential provide financial returns while still offering space for hunting, camping, or building an acreage site. This dual-purpose appeal makes recreational tracts highly attractive for long-term ownership.
What This Means for Iowa Landowners
If you own land in Iowa or surrounding states that has timber, water, wildlife habitat, or even just the potential for recreational use, your property may be worth more than you think. Recreational buyers are often willing to pay a premium for land that checks these boxes:
-Hunting Potential
-Water Features
-CRP Income
-Residential Living Opportunities
Marketing these unique attributes requires a specialized approach. At Whitaker Marketing Group, we showcase not just the farmability of a property, but also the lifestyle value it offers to today’s recreational buyer.
Tips for Buyers Considering Recreational Land
If you’re looking at purchasing recreational property in Iowa or the Midwest, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
1. Define Your Purpose: Know whether you’re buying primarily for hunting, income potential, or a future acreage site.
2. Check Access and Infrastructure – Not all recreational tracts have roads, utilities, or easy access. Buyers should always verify what access and amenities exist before purchasing
3. Understand Zoning and Regulations – Local rules around hunting, building, or conservation easements vary by county.
4. Assess Resale and Long-Term Value – Smaller tracts (under 40 acres) tend to attract broader buyer pools and often sell quickly at premiums.
Conclusion
The rise of recreational land buyers is more than a passing trend—it’s a lasting shift in how people view and value land in Iowa and across the Midwest. Demand for recreational land is growing, and it’s shaping the market in new ways. At Whitaker Marketing Group, we’re proud to help sellers maximize the value of their recreational properties while helping buyers find the perfect tract to fit their lifestyle and investment goals. Whether you’re considering selling a property with hunting potential or looking to purchase your own outdoor retreat, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact Whitaker Marketing Group today to learn more about the opportunities in Iowa’s recreational land market.
515-996-5263 |✉️info@wmgauction.com
