Memphis TN Hunting Properties: What To Look For When Purchasing Land For Outdoor Living

For many, acquiring land for hunting and outdoor living near Memphis, Tenn., is an exciting prospect — and one that involves careful consideration of several factors. The region offers diverse landscapes suitable for wildlife, and successful procurement requires understanding specific characteristics of the property and its surroundings. As a prospective buyer, you should approach this investment with detailed research to ensure the land meets your objectives for recreation and habitat management.

The process of purchasing land for outdoor living in the Memphis area extends beyond simply identifying available acreage. It necessitates an evaluation of the land's potential for supporting game, its accessibility, and its long-term viability for personal use. A thorough assessment of these elements helps secure a property that will provide enjoyment and value for years to come.

The topography of hunting land in the Memphis vicinity plays a crucial role in its suitability for outdoor living. Properties often feature a mix of flat bottomland and gently rolling hills, remnants of the Mississippi Alluvial Plain and the Loess Bluffs. These variations in elevation create diverse microhabitats, which benefit various game species.

Areas with natural depressions, slight elevation changes, and varied terrain offer cover and vantage points for hunting. Undulating land also aids drainage, preventing prolonged standing water, which can affect timber health and access. Understanding the specific land forms on a property helps in planning for blinds, food plots, and access routes.

Access to reliable water sources is paramount for sustaining wildlife on hunting land. Properties near Memphis often benefit from rivers, creeks, or natural wetlands. These water features provide essential hydration for deer, turkey, and small game, and they attract waterfowl, making them highly desirable.

Land with frontage on the Mississippi River, its tributaries, or properties containing natural sloughs and beaver ponds present prime opportunities for duck and goose hunting. Beyond direct water bodies, consistent rainfall in the region contributes to healthy vegetation, which indirectly supports wildlife populations. Considering year-round water availability is a key aspect of purchasing land for outdoor living.

The type and maturity of timber and other vegetation on a property significantly influence its hunting potential. Hardwood forests in West Tennessee provide acorns and other mast crops vital for deer and turkey. Dense undergrowth offers crucial cover and bedding areas for game.

Buyers should assess the predominant tree species, considering their value for timber production and their contribution to wildlife habitat. Properties featuring a mix of mature hardwoods, younger growth, and open areas create a mosaic of habitats, appealing to a broader range of wildlife. The health and diversity of the plant life directly correlate with the land's ability to support a thriving ecosystem.

The underlying soil quality directly impacts the ability to establish and maintain food plots for wildlife. In the Memphis area, soils are often derived from loess deposits, which can be fertile. Understanding the soil composition, including pH levels and nutrient content, helps determine which forage crops will grow best.

Properties with silty loam soils are generally conducive to growing corn, soybeans, clover, and other food sources that attract and hold game. A soil test provides specific data, guiding decisions on fertilization and planting strategies. Evaluating the soil's agricultural potential is an essential step in purchasing land for outdoor living and hunting.

Ease of access to a hunting property is a practical consideration. Land with direct road frontage or established easements provides convenient entry for vehicles, equipment, and hunters. Properties that are landlocked or require extensive travel over rugged terrain may present challenges.

Proximity to well-maintained public roads influences travel time from Memphis and ensures year-round access, regardless of weather conditions. Internal road systems or clearings within the property also facilitate movement for managing wildlife and accessing various hunting spots. Consider the overall logistical convenience when assessing a potential property.

Prospective buyers must investigate local zoning ordinances and land use regulations applicable to rural properties near Memphis. These regulations dictate permitted activities, building restrictions, and environmental protections. Areas zoned for agriculture or conservation typically align well with hunting and outdoor living objectives.

Shelby County and surrounding rural counties have specific zoning classifications that may affect land use. Confirming that hunting is a permissible activity (and understanding any restrictions on building structures or altering the landscape) prevents future complications. Consulting with local planning departments is a prudent step to ensure compliance.

Some hunting properties may include existing infrastructure such as small cabins, sheds, or cleared areas. While not always necessary, these features can enhance the land's utility for outdoor living. Cabins provide shelter, and sheds offer storage for equipment, reducing the initial investment required.

Basic infrastructure, like a well or septic system, adds value and convenience. Assessing the condition of existing structures or utilities helps budget for potential repairs or upgrades. Such amenities can immediately enhance the experience of owning and utilizing the land.

While purchasing private land offers exclusive hunting opportunities, proximity to public Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs) in West Tennessee can be an additional benefit. These larger tracts of land managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) contribute to regional wildlife populations, potentially increasing the flow of game onto neighboring private lands.

For example, the Wolf River WMA, located east of Memphis, comprises bottomland hardwood forests and swamps, supporting deer, turkey, and waterfowl. Understanding the migratory patterns and habitat preferences of game in relation to nearby public lands can inform property selection. Such proximity can enhance the overall hunting experience in the Memphis region.

When you're ready to buy or sell in Memphis or the surrounding tri-state area, partnering with a team that understands the market inside and out can make all the difference. Myers Cobb Realtors® is a family-owned boutique brokerage with over 60 years of combined real estate expertise. Licensed in Tennessee, Mississippi, and Arkansas, the firm brings a personalized, concierge-style approach to every transaction — backed by deep local knowledge and a hands-on, responsive team.

For a streamlined, professional, and rewarding real estate experience, connect with Myers Cobb Realtors and take the next step with a trusted partner by your side.