Who Owns USA? TOP 13 Largest Landholders in the U.S. in 2025
The question of who possesses the most land in the United States reveals intriguing realities.
Beyond vast ranches and sprawling forests, major landholders include federal and state institutions, indigenous communities, and influential figures in business.
These entities don’t just own land—they actively influence how it’s preserved, utilized, and managed. Their decisions drive efforts in environmental sustainability, food production, and resource allocation.
Holding such extensive tracts of land also carries the weight of protecting ecosystems and fostering biodiversity.
The intricate relationship between ownership and environmental responsibility highlights the pivotal role of these land stewards in shaping a sustainable future.
The question of who possesses the most land in the United States reveals intriguing realities.
Beyond vast ranches and sprawling forests, major landholders include federal and state institutions, indigenous communities, and influential figures in business.
These entities don’t just own land—they actively influence how it’s preserved, utilized, and managed. Their decisions drive efforts in environmental sustainability, food production, and resource allocation.
Holding such extensive tracts of land also carries the weight of protecting ecosystems and fostering biodiversity.
The intricate relationship between ownership and environmental responsibility highlights the pivotal role of these land stewards in shaping a sustainable future.
1. Federal Holdings: A Responsibility Across Generations
The federal government claims the title of the largest landowner in the United States, managing an astounding 650 million acres.
This expanse encompasses national parks, wildlife refuges, and public lands intended to safeguard biodiversity and offer natural sanctuaries for future generations. These lands provide recreational opportunities for millions, from hiking and camping to wildlife observation.
Beyond leisure, they play a vital role in mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks and supporting clean water systems.
Administered by agencies like the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management, this stewardship reflects a deep commitment to balancing environmental preservation with public access. Such vast ownership underscores the immense responsibility of managing resources while maintaining the delicate equilibrium of America's diverse ecosystems.
It is a legacy shaped not just for today, but for the prosperity of those yet to come.
The federal government claims the title of the largest landowner in the United States, managing an astounding 650 million acres.
This expanse encompasses national parks, wildlife refuges, and public lands intended to safeguard biodiversity and offer natural sanctuaries for future generations. These lands provide recreational opportunities for millions, from hiking and camping to wildlife observation.
Beyond leisure, they play a vital role in mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks and supporting clean water systems.
Administered by agencies like the National Park Service and the Bureau of Land Management, this stewardship reflects a deep commitment to balancing environmental preservation with public access. Such vast ownership underscores the immense responsibility of managing resources while maintaining the delicate equilibrium of America's diverse ecosystems.
It is a legacy shaped not just for today, but for the prosperity of those yet to come.
2. Tribal Lands: Guardians of Legacy and Prosperity
Native American tribes oversee approximately 56 million acres across the United States, embodying a profound connection to heritage and land stewardship.
These lands are more than territories—they are living expressions of cultural identity, passed down through generations as sacred spaces that uphold traditions and values. They provide the foundation for agricultural ventures, ecological conservation, and diverse economic activities essential to the vitality of tribal nations.
Beyond economics, tribal lands serve as an enduring testament to resilience, fostering ecosystems that sustain wildlife and natural resources. Managed with an emphasis on sovereignty and sustainability, these lands exemplify a balance between preserving history and pursuing prosperity.
As stewards of these vast expanses, tribal communities continue to champion their heritage while contributing to broader efforts in environmental protection and cultural recognition.
Native American tribes oversee approximately 56 million acres across the United States, embodying a profound connection to heritage and land stewardship.
These lands are more than territories—they are living expressions of cultural identity, passed down through generations as sacred spaces that uphold traditions and values. They provide the foundation for agricultural ventures, ecological conservation, and diverse economic activities essential to the vitality of tribal nations.
Beyond economics, tribal lands serve as an enduring testament to resilience, fostering ecosystems that sustain wildlife and natural resources. Managed with an emphasis on sovereignty and sustainability, these lands exemplify a balance between preserving history and pursuing prosperity.
As stewards of these vast expanses, tribal communities continue to champion their heritage while contributing to broader efforts in environmental protection and cultural recognition.
3. Emmerson Family: Pioneers in Timber and Sustainability
The Emmerson family, a dominant force in the timber industry, holds over 2.4 million acres of forestland across California, Oregon, and Washington. As owners of Sierra Pacific Industries, one of the largest private lumber producers in the United States, they have built their legacy on a foundation of balancing industrial needs with environmental stewardship. Their growth strategy is anchored in consistent land acquisitions and meticulous long-term forest management practices, ensuring a sustainable supply of resources while preserving natural habitats.
Beyond timber production, the Emmersons are committed to reforestation efforts, with millions of trees planted annually to restore ecosystems and support biodiversity. Their innovative approach not only addresses environmental challenges but also solidifies their role as leaders in sustainable forestry. Through their efforts, the family exemplifies how commerce and conservation can coexist in harmony, leaving a lasting impact on both the industry and the environment.
The Emmerson family, a dominant force in the timber industry, holds over 2.4 million acres of forestland across California, Oregon, and Washington. As owners of Sierra Pacific Industries, one of the largest private lumber producers in the United States, they have built their legacy on a foundation of balancing industrial needs with environmental stewardship. Their growth strategy is anchored in consistent land acquisitions and meticulous long-term forest management practices, ensuring a sustainable supply of resources while preserving natural habitats.
Beyond timber production, the Emmersons are committed to reforestation efforts, with millions of trees planted annually to restore ecosystems and support biodiversity. Their innovative approach not only addresses environmental challenges but also solidifies their role as leaders in sustainable forestry. Through their efforts, the family exemplifies how commerce and conservation can coexist in harmony, leaving a lasting impact on both the industry and the environment.
4. John Malone: A Visionary Land Steward
John Malone, widely recognized for his leadership of Liberty Media, is also one of the largest private landowners in the United States, controlling an impressive 2.2 million acres. Concentrated mainly in Maine and New Hampshire, his holdings underscore a commitment to environmental conservation.
Large portions of these lands are managed to safeguard wildlife corridors, protect endangered species, and maintain vital ecosystems. Through the use of conservation easements, Malone ensures that vast tracts of his land remain undeveloped, promoting sustainable land use practices.
In addition to his dedication to preserving natural habitats, he engages in collaborative environmental projects that foster partnerships with local communities and organizations. His approach highlights the importance of balancing land ownership with ecological responsibility, reflecting his broader vision of integrating business leadership with environmental stewardship. Malone's efforts leave a lasting legacy of sustainability, benefiting both people and the planet.
John Malone, widely recognized for his leadership of Liberty Media, is also one of the largest private landowners in the United States, controlling an impressive 2.2 million acres. Concentrated mainly in Maine and New Hampshire, his holdings underscore a commitment to environmental conservation.
Large portions of these lands are managed to safeguard wildlife corridors, protect endangered species, and maintain vital ecosystems. Through the use of conservation easements, Malone ensures that vast tracts of his land remain undeveloped, promoting sustainable land use practices.
In addition to his dedication to preserving natural habitats, he engages in collaborative environmental projects that foster partnerships with local communities and organizations. His approach highlights the importance of balancing land ownership with ecological responsibility, reflecting his broader vision of integrating business leadership with environmental stewardship. Malone's efforts leave a lasting legacy of sustainability, benefiting both people and the planet.
5. Ted Turner: A Pioneer in Land Stewardship and Conservation
With ownership exceeding 2 million acres, Ted Turner stands among the most influential private landowners in the United States.
His flagship property, Vermejo Park Ranch in New Mexico, sprawling across nearly 600,000 acres, is a benchmark for sustainable ranching and innovative conservation practices. Turner’s vision transcends traditional land management, with a strong focus on ecological restoration initiatives that rehabilitate degraded environments and revive native ecosystems.
Across his holdings, he has spearheaded efforts to reintroduce wildlife, such as bison and native fish species, ensuring their long-term survival. Turner also emphasizes the integration of responsible land use with environmental education, fostering awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
His leadership in these areas serves as a testament to the potential of private land ownership to contribute positively to global conservation efforts, leaving a profound legacy for generations to come.
With ownership exceeding 2 million acres, Ted Turner stands among the most influential private landowners in the United States.
His flagship property, Vermejo Park Ranch in New Mexico, sprawling across nearly 600,000 acres, is a benchmark for sustainable ranching and innovative conservation practices. Turner’s vision transcends traditional land management, with a strong focus on ecological restoration initiatives that rehabilitate degraded environments and revive native ecosystems.
Across his holdings, he has spearheaded efforts to reintroduce wildlife, such as bison and native fish species, ensuring their long-term survival. Turner also emphasizes the integration of responsible land use with environmental education, fostering awareness about the importance of preserving natural habitats.
His leadership in these areas serves as a testament to the potential of private land ownership to contribute positively to global conservation efforts, leaving a profound legacy for generations to come.
6. Stan Kroenke: Bridging Real Estate, Sports, and Land Stewardship
Stan Kroenke, a prominent figure in real estate and sports, owns an impressive 1.76 million acres spread across multiple states in the U.S. Among his key holdings is the historic 534,000-acre W.T. Waggoner Ranch in Texas, known as one of the largest ranches under one fence in the world.
Additionally, his portfolio includes the recently acquired 80,000-acre Cañon Blanco Ranch in New Mexico, showcasing his dedication to ranching and recreational pursuits. Kroenke's ranches play a pivotal role in large-scale cattle operations, supporting the agricultural economy while contributing to meat production.
Beyond ranching, these lands are popular destinations for hunting tourism, attracting enthusiasts from across the country. His investment strategy underscores a balance between traditional ranching practices and modern recreational interests. By managing diverse and expansive holdings, Kroenke exemplifies how land ownership can integrate commerce, heritage, and leisure.
Stan Kroenke, a prominent figure in real estate and sports, owns an impressive 1.76 million acres spread across multiple states in the U.S. Among his key holdings is the historic 534,000-acre W.T. Waggoner Ranch in Texas, known as one of the largest ranches under one fence in the world.
Additionally, his portfolio includes the recently acquired 80,000-acre Cañon Blanco Ranch in New Mexico, showcasing his dedication to ranching and recreational pursuits. Kroenke's ranches play a pivotal role in large-scale cattle operations, supporting the agricultural economy while contributing to meat production.
Beyond ranching, these lands are popular destinations for hunting tourism, attracting enthusiasts from across the country. His investment strategy underscores a balance between traditional ranching practices and modern recreational interests. By managing diverse and expansive holdings, Kroenke exemplifies how land ownership can integrate commerce, heritage, and leisure.
7. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
One of the largest private landowners in the United States, with an estimated 1.7 million acres of land. These holdings include a mix of farmland, ranches, forests, and commercial properties across all 50 states.
One of its most notable properties is the Deseret Ranch in Florida, which spans over 300,000 acres and is used for cattle ranching and agricultural purposes. The Church's land is managed through various entities, such as Property Reserve, Inc., and Farmland Reserve, Inc., which focus on sustainable practices and long-term stewardship.
These vast landholdings reflect the Church's commitment to self-reliance and resource management.
Additionally, the Church uses its properties to support its religious, humanitarian, and community-building efforts. Its extensive real estate portfolio underscores its influence and presence across the United States.
One of the largest private landowners in the United States, with an estimated 1.7 million acres of land. These holdings include a mix of farmland, ranches, forests, and commercial properties across all 50 states.
One of its most notable properties is the Deseret Ranch in Florida, which spans over 300,000 acres and is used for cattle ranching and agricultural purposes. The Church's land is managed through various entities, such as Property Reserve, Inc., and Farmland Reserve, Inc., which focus on sustainable practices and long-term stewardship.
These vast landholdings reflect the Church's commitment to self-reliance and resource management.
Additionally, the Church uses its properties to support its religious, humanitarian, and community-building efforts. Its extensive real estate portfolio underscores its influence and presence across the United States.
8. Reed Family: Innovators in Sustainable Forestry
The Reed family oversees approximately 1.66 million acres, making them key players in the timber industry. Their land is managed through Simpson Investment Company and Green Diamond Resource, both renowned for their commitment to responsible forestry.
The family emphasizes sustainable logging practices, incorporating advanced techniques to minimize environmental impact while optimizing timber yields. Forest regeneration is a core part of their strategy, with efforts focused on replanting and nurturing ecosystems to maintain biodiversity and soil health. Beyond timber production, their operations integrate cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability.
By prioritizing ecological responsibility, the Reed family sets a benchmark in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, ensuring that their legacy in forestry management continues to thrive for future generations.
The Reed family oversees approximately 1.66 million acres, making them key players in the timber industry. Their land is managed through Simpson Investment Company and Green Diamond Resource, both renowned for their commitment to responsible forestry.
The family emphasizes sustainable logging practices, incorporating advanced techniques to minimize environmental impact while optimizing timber yields. Forest regeneration is a core part of their strategy, with efforts focused on replanting and nurturing ecosystems to maintain biodiversity and soil health. Beyond timber production, their operations integrate cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency and sustainability.
By prioritizing ecological responsibility, the Reed family sets a benchmark in balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship, ensuring that their legacy in forestry management continues to thrive for future generations.
9. Irving Family
Champions of Forestry and Ranching Sustainability The Irving family, with over 1.3 million acres of land in the United States, has established themselves as leaders in sustainable land management.
Their vast timberlands in Maine are managed with a commitment to responsible forestry, including the planting of tens of millions of trees annually to ensure long-term ecological balance. In addition, their investments in cutting-edge wood processing facilities enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impact, setting a high standard for the timber industry.
Beyond their forestry operations, the Irvings manage significant ranching enterprises in Texas, further diversifying their land stewardship. By integrating innovation with sustainability, the family supports economic growth, ecosystem health, and resource conservation. Their enduring approach reflects a dedication to leaving a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the industries they serve.
Champions of Forestry and Ranching Sustainability The Irving family, with over 1.3 million acres of land in the United States, has established themselves as leaders in sustainable land management.
Their vast timberlands in Maine are managed with a commitment to responsible forestry, including the planting of tens of millions of trees annually to ensure long-term ecological balance. In addition, their investments in cutting-edge wood processing facilities enhance efficiency while minimizing environmental impact, setting a high standard for the timber industry.
Beyond their forestry operations, the Irvings manage significant ranching enterprises in Texas, further diversifying their land stewardship. By integrating innovation with sustainability, the family supports economic growth, ecosystem health, and resource conservation. Their enduring approach reflects a dedication to leaving a lasting positive impact on both the environment and the industries they serve.
10. Buck Family
Innovators in Timberland Conservation Peter Buck, renowned as the co-founder of Subway and a nuclear physicist, transformed his business achievements into a remarkable legacy of land stewardship.
The Buck family now owns over 1.2 million acres of timberland across the United States, focusing on sustainable and forward-thinking management practices.
Their approach prioritizes forest preservation through strategic harvesting and proactive forest regeneration, ensuring long-term ecological health.
A key element of their vision includes carbon sequestration efforts, contributing to climate change mitigation by capturing and storing atmospheric carbon in forest ecosystems. Additionally, their holdings emphasize biodiversity protection by maintaining habitats that support diverse plant and animal species.
The Buck family's ongoing commitment to expanding their land portfolio and investing in sustainable forestry underscores their dedication to environmental conservation and responsible land management practices. Their innovative work leaves an enduring legacy that bridges science, business, and environmental stewardship.
Innovators in Timberland Conservation Peter Buck, renowned as the co-founder of Subway and a nuclear physicist, transformed his business achievements into a remarkable legacy of land stewardship.
The Buck family now owns over 1.2 million acres of timberland across the United States, focusing on sustainable and forward-thinking management practices.
Their approach prioritizes forest preservation through strategic harvesting and proactive forest regeneration, ensuring long-term ecological health.
A key element of their vision includes carbon sequestration efforts, contributing to climate change mitigation by capturing and storing atmospheric carbon in forest ecosystems. Additionally, their holdings emphasize biodiversity protection by maintaining habitats that support diverse plant and animal species.
The Buck family's ongoing commitment to expanding their land portfolio and investing in sustainable forestry underscores their dedication to environmental conservation and responsible land management practices. Their innovative work leaves an enduring legacy that bridges science, business, and environmental stewardship.
11. Rupert Murdoch
A prominent media mogul, owns vast tracts of land in the United States, including the Beaverhead Ranch in Montana. This ranch spans an impressive 340,000 acres and was purchased for $200 million from the Koch family.
Murdoch's total landholdings in the U.S. amount to approximately 833,000 acres, making him one of the largest private landowners in the country.
His properties include working cattle ranches and vineyards, such as the Moraga Estate in California. Murdoch has described owning such land as a "profound responsibility," reflecting his commitment to maintaining and preserving these vast landscapes.
These acquisitions highlight his diverse interests beyond the media empire he built. The sheer size of his landholdings underscores his influence not only in media but also in agriculture and land management.
A prominent media mogul, owns vast tracts of land in the United States, including the Beaverhead Ranch in Montana. This ranch spans an impressive 340,000 acres and was purchased for $200 million from the Koch family.
Murdoch's total landholdings in the U.S. amount to approximately 833,000 acres, making him one of the largest private landowners in the country.
His properties include working cattle ranches and vineyards, such as the Moraga Estate in California. Murdoch has described owning such land as a "profound responsibility," reflecting his commitment to maintaining and preserving these vast landscapes.
These acquisitions highlight his diverse interests beyond the media empire he built. The sheer size of his landholdings underscores his influence not only in media but also in agriculture and land management.
12. Jeff Bezos
The founder of Amazon and Blue Origin, one of the largest private landowners in the United States, with approximately 420,000 acres of land. Among his holdings is the Corn Ranch in Texas, spanning 165,000 acres, which serves as the launch site for his aerospace company, Blue Origin.
Bezos has invested in land not only for business purposes but also for conservation and environmental initiatives. His properties include vast ranches and estates that reflect his interest in preserving natural landscapes. Bezos' landholdings highlight his diverse interests beyond technology and e-commerce, extending into agriculture and space exploration.
These acquisitions also demonstrate his commitment to sustainability and innovation across multiple sectors. His influence as a landowner complements his broader vision for shaping the future of humanity.
The founder of Amazon and Blue Origin, one of the largest private landowners in the United States, with approximately 420,000 acres of land. Among his holdings is the Corn Ranch in Texas, spanning 165,000 acres, which serves as the launch site for his aerospace company, Blue Origin.
Bezos has invested in land not only for business purposes but also for conservation and environmental initiatives. His properties include vast ranches and estates that reflect his interest in preserving natural landscapes. Bezos' landholdings highlight his diverse interests beyond technology and e-commerce, extending into agriculture and space exploration.
These acquisitions also demonstrate his commitment to sustainability and innovation across multiple sectors. His influence as a landowner complements his broader vision for shaping the future of humanity.
13. Bill Gates
Co-founder of Microsoft and a prominent philanthropist, one of the largest private farmland owners in the United States. He owns approximately 300,000 acres of farmland spread across multiple states, including Louisiana, Arkansas, and Nebraska.
Gates has stated that his investments in farmland are aimed at improving agricultural productivity and sustainability.
His landholdings are managed by a professional investment team, focusing on innovative farming techniques and environmental stewardship. While his acquisitions have sparked curiosity and some controversy, Gates has clarified that his goal is to support advancements in agriculture rather than dominate the sector. This significant land ownership highlights his broader interest in addressing global challenges, including food security and climate change.
Gates' involvement in agriculture complements the work of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which funds initiatives for sustainable farming practices worldwide.
Co-founder of Microsoft and a prominent philanthropist, one of the largest private farmland owners in the United States. He owns approximately 300,000 acres of farmland spread across multiple states, including Louisiana, Arkansas, and Nebraska.
Gates has stated that his investments in farmland are aimed at improving agricultural productivity and sustainability.
His landholdings are managed by a professional investment team, focusing on innovative farming techniques and environmental stewardship. While his acquisitions have sparked curiosity and some controversy, Gates has clarified that his goal is to support advancements in agriculture rather than dominate the sector. This significant land ownership highlights his broader interest in addressing global challenges, including food security and climate change.
Gates' involvement in agriculture complements the work of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which funds initiatives for sustainable farming practices worldwide.
Analytical Insights and Future Outlook
The increasing concentration of land ownership by a select few prompts deep considerations regarding the intersection of resource management, environmental stewardship, and economic power.
These major landholders, beyond managing their expansive estates, are instrumental in shaping initiatives surrounding climate resilience and sustainable development. Their decisions have far-reaching implications for industries such as agriculture, forestry, and tourism, driving efforts to balance environmental preservation with financial gain.
As population growth leads to urban expansion and ecological concerns intensify, these landowners will likely face mounting scrutiny to integrate conservation practices into their operations. The future may see a surge in innovative collaborations, such as public-private partnerships aimed at safeguarding critical landscapes and fostering biodiversity. Additionally, conservation easements—agreements to restrict land use for ecological purposes—might gain traction as tools for preservation.
Another emerging trend is the development of carbon credit markets, where sustainable forest management plays a pivotal role in offsetting greenhouse gas emissions. These shifts underscore the growing expectations on landowners to not only profit from their holdings but also act as custodians of the environment, ensuring a lasting legacy of sustainability.
Conclusion: The Future of Land in the U.S.
Land ownership in the United States reflects a dynamic interplay of public interests, private enterprise, and ecological responsibility.
The choices made by major landholders in managing their properties will profoundly influence the country's environmental landscape and economic development, especially as urbanization accelerates and climate challenges become more pressing.
The impact of these landowners extends well beyond economics; their management strategies significantly shape conservation efforts, generate employment opportunities, and bolster regional development. By fostering sustainable agriculture, forestry jobs, and innovative land practices, they not only support rural communities but also contribute to preserving natural resources for future generations.
Furthermore, their contributions to outdoor recreation industries, such as eco-tourism, conservation-based hunting preserves, and educational initiatives, serve as a reminder of the potential harmony between private ownership and public benefit.
Responsible land stewardship and the adoption of forward-thinking approaches will continue to demonstrate how private investment can drive both economic progress and ecological sustainability, securing a balanced future for America's landscapes and communities alike.
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The increasing concentration of land ownership by a select few prompts deep considerations regarding the intersection of resource management, environmental stewardship, and economic power.
These major landholders, beyond managing their expansive estates, are instrumental in shaping initiatives surrounding climate resilience and sustainable development. Their decisions have far-reaching implications for industries such as agriculture, forestry, and tourism, driving efforts to balance environmental preservation with financial gain.
As population growth leads to urban expansion and ecological concerns intensify, these landowners will likely face mounting scrutiny to integrate conservation practices into their operations. The future may see a surge in innovative collaborations, such as public-private partnerships aimed at safeguarding critical landscapes and fostering biodiversity. Additionally, conservation easements—agreements to restrict land use for ecological purposes—might gain traction as tools for preservation.
Another emerging trend is the development of carbon credit markets, where sustainable forest management plays a pivotal role in offsetting greenhouse gas emissions. These shifts underscore the growing expectations on landowners to not only profit from their holdings but also act as custodians of the environment, ensuring a lasting legacy of sustainability.
Conclusion: The Future of Land in the U.S.
Land ownership in the United States reflects a dynamic interplay of public interests, private enterprise, and ecological responsibility.
The choices made by major landholders in managing their properties will profoundly influence the country's environmental landscape and economic development, especially as urbanization accelerates and climate challenges become more pressing.
The impact of these landowners extends well beyond economics; their management strategies significantly shape conservation efforts, generate employment opportunities, and bolster regional development. By fostering sustainable agriculture, forestry jobs, and innovative land practices, they not only support rural communities but also contribute to preserving natural resources for future generations.
Furthermore, their contributions to outdoor recreation industries, such as eco-tourism, conservation-based hunting preserves, and educational initiatives, serve as a reminder of the potential harmony between private ownership and public benefit.
Responsible land stewardship and the adoption of forward-thinking approaches will continue to demonstrate how private investment can drive both economic progress and ecological sustainability, securing a balanced future for America's landscapes and communities alike.
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