Why Van Buren County Tennessee Land Attracts Buyers
Buyers looking for rural land in Tennessee are drawn to Van Buren County for more than just space. This area has a strong agricultural base anchored by cattle and poultry, with over 35,000 acres in active use and nearly 270 farms reported in the latest USDA census. What sets this region apart is its blend of productivity and tourism. It ranks at the top in Tennessee for agritourism, with farms offering hayrides, pumpkin patches, and farm tours. These operations add seasonal income and community presence without disrupting traditional farm life.
Natural assets boost the value proposition. Fall Creek Falls State Park brings thousands of visitors annually, while Big Bone Cave offers rare geological and historical interest. These attractions bring attention to local land that might otherwise go unnoticed. The terrain—part Highland Rim, part Cumberland Plateau—offers open fields, wooded ridges, and underground cave systems. Many parcels support livestock and hay, with good road access and infrastructure already in place for small operations. Conservation cost-share programs and farm subsidy support make the area viable for first-time and legacy buyers alike.
Big Bone Caves, Waterfalls, and Rare Aquatic Species in Van Buren County
Big Bone Cave
This National Natural Landmark contains a mile-long cave with archaeological finds and Civil War mining history. Fossils of a giant ground sloth were discovered here, one of the most complete skeletons of its kind.
Fall Creek Falls
The county includes part of Fall Creek Falls State Park, which features a 256-foot waterfall, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks. It's one of Tennessee’s most visited state parks, drawing year-round interest.
Buffalo River Tributaries
Streams in the county support rare fish like southern cavefish, multiple darter species, and endangered freshwater mussels. These waters also shelter alligator snapping turtles and are part of Tennessee’s natural heritage.
Cattle, Poultry, and Agritourism Investment Land

Cattle Grazing
Beef cattle operations are widespread, with over 15,000 cows in the region. Landowners commonly raise hay or silage on-site, reducing outside inputs. Most pastures are gently sloped and fenced, with water access from springs or ponds.

Poultry Production
Broiler and pullet farms operate on 2–4 house systems under contract. Ventilation, feed control, and waste management infrastructure are already present on most modern builds. Poultry farms here feed into larger processing markets across Middle Tennessee.

Agritourism
Van Buren leads the state in agritourism operations per capita. Many farms offer seasonal attractions like hayrides, pick-your-own pumpkins, and school tours. These uses work well alongside small-scale livestock or crop production.
Hunting Rare Species and Fishing Remote Streams in Van Buren County

Whitetail Deer
Deer are common across woodlots and hayfields. Archery and muzzleloader seasons are well used locally, and deer often exceed 150 lb.

Bobwhite Quail
Bobwhite populations have declined sharply, but habitat restoration efforts are underway. Fields with native grasses offer some limited opportunity during upland seasons.

Fishing
Buffalo River tributaries hold sunfish, darters, and catfish. Anglers occasionally pull in snapping turtles or rare rock bass from deeper holes using traditional tackle or lines.

Snapping Turtle
The alligator snapping turtle can weigh over 50 pounds and is native to deep water pools in this region. While not hunted, its presence signals a healthy aquatic ecosystem.
Protected Cave Systems and Heritage Tourism Support Unique Rural Living
Land for Sale in Nearby Counties in Tennessee
White County
White County offers larger tracts and more row cropping. It shares the same Highland Rim landscape and access to major roadways for hauling and supplies.
Bledsoe County
Bledsoe to the south features more timber tracts and game land. It’s known for remote hunting cabins and affordable livestock parcels.
Warren County
Warren is more developed but still has strong nursery stock farming and agribusiness presence. Ideal for buyers looking for infrastructure-ready acreage.