Arkansas Real Estate

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Arkansas: A Landowner's Guide to the Natural State

Arkansas, the “Natural State,” offers a compelling blend of agricultural richness and scenic beauty. With its diverse terrain, fertile farmland, and strong agricultural traditions, Arkansas presents a unique opportunity for landowners and those seeking to invest in this often-overlooked state.

This guide explores Arkansas’ history, population, major cities, farmland, and recreational activities, providing valuable insights for those connected to the land.

• Arkansas History

  Caddo, Quapaw, and Osage nations lived on Arkansas land when Europeans settled the state in the 16th century. In the 19th century, Arkansas became a U.S. territory and was known for its agricultural production, especially cotton. Enslaved labor was an enormous contributor to cotton’s success in Arkansas, which impacted the state’s culture and events even after the Civil War and Reconstruction. In the 20th century, however, agriculture in Arkansas shifted toward diversification, with livestock, poultry, soybeans, and rice becoming more popular products in the state.

• Arkansas' Population and Major Cities

  Arkansas has a population of approximately 3 million people as of 2024, with a significant portion living in rural areas outside of the state’s major cities. Little Rock, the state capital, is a hub for government, business, and culture. Other major cities include Fayetteville, home to the University of Arkansas and a growing technology sector; Fort Smith, a historic city with a diverse economy; and Jonesboro, an agricultural and manufacturing center in the northeast. 

  According to the 2017 Census of Agriculture, top agricultural counties in Indiana include: 

  • Mississippi County (seat: Blytheville, Arkansas) is known for its vast cropland of cotton and soybeans, much of which is planted on the incredible fertile soil of the Arkansas Delta.

  • Arkansas County (seat: Stuttgart, Arkansas) is nicknamed the “Rice Capital of the World” due to the dominance of rice production in the county. 

  • Lonoke County (seat: Lonoke, Arkansas) produces a diversity of crops including rice, soybeans, and corn, and livestock including poultry and cattle. Its proximity to Little Rock provides convenient access to markets and support services.

  • White County (seat: Searcy, Arkansas) has a high market value in poultry production, cattle farming, and crops like soybeans and rice.

  • Benton County (seat: Bentonville, Arkansas) produces significant amounts of poultry, cattle, and fruit such as apples and grapes. 

   

• What is Arkansas' Farmland Like?

  Arkansas boasts diverse farmland, encompassing over 14 million acres. The rich alluvial soils of the Arkansas Delta are well suited for crops like soybeans, rice, and cotton, often cultivated on a large scale. Annually, Arkansas produces 1.1 million pounds of cotton bales and 371,000 tons of cottonseed, in addition to producing over 40% of the country’s rice. The Ozark and Ouachita Mountains host smaller farms with livestock, poultry, and fruit production. Cattle farming is also prevalent, particularly in the Ozark Mountains and the western plains. 

  In national rankings, Arkansas is the

  • #1 producer of rice;
  • #3 producer of broiler chickens;
  • #4 producer of cotton and cottonseed; and
  • #4 producer of turkeys.

  Arkansas’ soil types vary considerably, reflecting the state’s diverse topography. The fertile alluvial soils of the Mississippi Delta are ideal for rice and soybean production. The Ozark Mountains and Ouachita Mountains have thinner, rocky soils, while the western plains are characterized by sandy loam soils.  

  Because agriculture contributes so heavily to the Arkansas economy, the state has built a strong support network of investment, regulations, and incentives for farmers. To facilitate the efficient transport of agricultural products, Arkansas maintains its infrastructure through investing in its railways, roads, bridges, and irrigation systems. The Arkansas Department of Agriculture promotes Arkansas-grown products and supports expanded market access for farmers. The University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture conducts research on crops, livestock, and farming practices, which they disseminate to farmers through Cooperative Extension resources.

  Arkansas agriculture’s impact on the economy radiates out to a vast network of farmland support businesses in the state. Riceland Foods is the world’s largest miller and marketer of rice and is based in Stuttgart, Arkansas. One of the world’s largest poultry producers and processors, Tyson Foods, is also based in Arkansas to support the booming broiler production. Grain elevators, farm equipment dealerships, and agricultural cooperatives, and other farm support businesses are all regular part of the farming landscape in Arkansas.

• What Kind of Outdoor Recreation is There in Arkansas?

  As the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission says on its website, “Hunting is not just a pastime in The Natural State, it’s a part of the culture.” Because of its diverse landscape, Arkansas has a uniquely diverse range of game species across the state. In addition to the ever-popular deer and waterfowl hunting, hunters in Arkansas can also seek out alligators, elk, black bears, and cougars. 

  Because hunting is such a draw for tourism and locals alike, the state has invested in more than 3 million acres of publicly accessible land for hunting. The state’s vast forests, rolling hills, and abundant waterways offer a variety of hunting environments. Some of the more popular hunting sites include the White River National Wildlife Refuge, Ozark National Forest, and Ouachita National Forest. Hunting licenses and permits are required, and hunters must adhere to state regulations and seasons.

  Anglers can find over 300 public fishing areas in Arkansas, many of which are stocked by the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission. The state’s waterways offer a wide variety of fish species, including alligator gar, trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing is popular at Lake Ouachita, Bull Shoals Lake, and the White River.

• Buying Land in Arkansas

  Arkansas is attractive to land buyers with a unique combination of agricultural potential and renowned recreational opportunities. The state’s long growing season and access to irrigation infrastructure create favorable conditions for rice cultivation and other crops. Arkansas is particularly famous for its duck hunting, drawing outdoor enthusiasts from across the nation.

  Buyers should be aware that the soil composition in Arkansas often includes clay, which can present unique challenges for certain farming practices. Working closely with local experts like Hageman Realty is crucial to best navigate soil composition, government programs, the nuances of water rights, and identify properties that best suit their agricultural or recreational aspirations.

  Hageman Realty has a deep understanding of the state’s unique agricultural landscape and is here to help you navigate it. We pride ourselves on building lasting relationships with our clients, providing personalized service and expert advice, whether you’re a seasoned farmer expanding your operation or a newcomer seeking a piece of the Natural State.

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