4,900 Acres in Bluffton, SC - $53,900,000

For the first time in over 25 years, Ricefield Bluff Plantation—formerly a portion of the Managed Forest at Palmetto Bluff—presents an unparalleled opportunity. Encompassing approximately 5,700 acres of pristine coastal maritime forest, the property evokes the wild essence that has captivated land barons for generations. Under meticulous stewardship, Ricefield Bluff continues its legacy with soaring pine plantations and virgin hardwood stands draped in Spanish moss. It boasts 11 miles along the wild New River, where rhythmic tides reflect the unique interplay between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

20th Century History
Originally purchased in 1937 by Union Bag and Paper from the Varn family for its timber resources, the property evolved into a 20,000-acre corporate hunting retreat in the early 1970s. This followed the merger between Union Bag and the Virginia-based Camp Paper Company, forming Union Camp. Until the late 1990s, the land benefited from continuous timber management, supporting thriving wildlife populations. This made it an ideal acquisition for the Walcam Land Group, predecessor to the current owner, Pioneer Land and Timber, LLC, in 2000.

The land now offered was designated as a preserve under the Town of Bluffton development agreement, separate from the remaining 14,000+ acres of the Palmetto Bluff Planned Unit Development, which is limited to 4,000 dwelling units.

Though smaller than its original footprint, Ricefield Bluff has benefited from continued stewardship by Chip and Chris Campbell. Today, it remains a vital natural habitat supporting indigenous and migratory species including whitetail deer, Eastern wild turkey, migratory waterfowl, American alligator, and songbirds.

Included in the offering are 10 dwelling units with Palmetto Bluff membership privileges, as well as 6 development units on Parcel 8B in New Riverside. Surrounded by 32 miles of waterways, the peninsula is bordered to the south by the freshwater New River and to the north by the saltwater Maye River. Centuries ago, these rivers were connected and impounded during the rise of rice cultivation, forming the iconic duck pond seen at the Palmetto Bluff resort entrance today.

Despite limited subdivision rights, the property is uniquely positioned to generate substantial revenue through timber management, carbon sequestration, mitigation banking, and potential tax credits. Parcel 8B—a 117-acre tract at the entrance to Palmetto Bluff—offers a minor development opportunity with six additional units, ideal for private retention or resale.

This singular American landholding, with its intricate tidal rivers and secluded hammocks, offers profound solitude and ecological significance. It stands as a benchmark of exclusivity, stewardship, and biodiversity in the rapidly vanishing landscape of the South Carolina Lowcountry.

Due to the owners’ intimate knowledge of the land, the property has been conceptually divided into seven tracts, designed along natural corridors for future subdivision if not sold in bulk.

A mitigation proposal, January 2025 timber inventory, and conceptual subdivision plans are available upon request.

All information deemed reliable but subject to change. Acreage may vary slightly due to GIS vs. survey data. Buyers should verify all information.