LExplore the Finest Land Preservation Communities
The nation's best land preservation communities are committed to the conservation of natural areas and wildlife habitat for future generations. If you're a nature lover who is considering retirement or relocation, a premier land preservation community may be the right destination for you.
Why choose a land preservation community?
Is your idea of a great day one that includes a long walk in an unspoiled natural area? Do you enjoy photographing wildlife in a pristine setting or canoeing on a lake that doesn't allow motor boats? How convenient would it be if a large tract of undeveloped land was located next to your residential neighborhood? If your retirement or relocation plans include spending more time in the great outdoors, a land preservation community should be at the top if your list.
What are the benefits of living in a land preservation community?
- Land Preservation Trusts. Also sometimes called conservation easements, land preservation trusts are usually created by the original property owners or by the community developers. Depending on the size of the community master plan, this can result in dozens or even hundreds of acres being left untouched in their natural state. The benefit to community residents is that they know this protected land will be free of future development and available for enjoyment in the years ahead.
- Community design. Land preservation communities often group their residential neighborhoods and amenity centers in specific areas that are separated by undeveloped land. Community residents can then enjoy more peace and quiet at home, relaxing nature views from the back porch and access to undisturbed areas that are walking distance from their homes' front door.
- Outdoor recreation. Residents in land preservation communities are naturally drawn to open spaces and woodlands. Whether your healthy exercise plan includes leisurely strolls or more vigorous hikes, most land preservation communities have many miles of pathways within their designated natural areas. Bike riders, birdwatchers, photographers and artists can also enjoy their favorite activities in these serene preserved spaces. If lakes, ponds and other wetlands are part of the conservation area, then kayaking, canoeing and fishing may be additional outdoor recreation options.
- Nature clubs. Social activities in land preservation communities are nearly always nature-oriented and community clubs are quick to form among like-minded neighbors. Members of these nature clubs volunteer their time to regularly inspect the protected areas, keep walking trails free of debris, monitor water and woodland quality, and engage in other healthy activities that keep these natural areas both pristine and accessible. Club members may also serve as guides for community visitors and organize field trips to nearby state and national parks.
Research and Explore Land Preservation Communities
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Click to explore the following land preservation communities. Request information from multiple communities by selecting the checkboxes to the right and completing the form below.
K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Wylder
Welcome to K. Hovnanian’s Four Seasons at Wylder, a new active adult 55+ community in Port St. Lucie, Florida offering 9 unique ranch-style home designs and 1 villa design. Enjoy an all-inclusive, resort-at-home lifestyle with access to countless amenities and activities. Each home is offered in one of our new interior design Looks: Loft, Farmhouse, Classic or Elements for on-trend style in your new home.
Residents can take advantage of the community’s clubhouse, which features a state-of-the-art fitness center, game room, a catering kitchen and a bustling calendar of classes, clubs, and activities. All of these mere steps from your front door.
Located in sunny Port St. Lucie, Florida, residents can also enjoy outdoor activities year-round. Take a dip in the tropical beach-entry pool or enjoy the poolside cabana. Get a great session of exercise on one of the pickleball courts. Plus, there are always social events and outings so you can get to know your neighbors and enjoy the fun together. Experience the best of active adult 55+ living together with South Florida’s natural beauty.
The Retreat
Welcome to the best 55+ Active Adult Community in Colorado Springs, CO, The Retreat by OakwoodLife! With breathtaking views of Pike’s Peak, The Retreat is located in the award-winning Banning Lewis Ranch, the fastest-selling community in Colorado Springs, and ranked in the Top 50 master-planned communities in the nation.
When you build at The Retreat you Get More Than a New Home! You get a new community with easy access to your clubhouse, pool, spa, pickleball courts, state-of-the-art fitness center, game room, golf simulator, demonstration kitchen, and miles of trails. You get new friends you instantly connect with because we are all over 55 and realize that now is our time to pursue passions, focus on health, and truly find meaning and purpose in life. You get to experience new activities and events with your world-class Lifestyle Director who designs personalized programs for you. You learn new skills, play new games, set new goals, seek new adventures, discover new hobbies, and maybe even invent a brand new you!
Callawassie Island
Callawassie Island, located in the heart of the Lowcountry, is a private, gated island community offering world-class Tom Fazio golf and a full complement of amenities including a tennis center, clubhouse, pools, fitness center, and River Club. Secluded from the noise and congestion of the highway, Callawassie lies miles from Hilton Head and is also convenient to Beaufort and Bluffton (15 minutes away); historic Savannah, GA (a 30-minute drive); and the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport (40 minutes away). A half-mile causeway provides a relaxing, slow-paced approach to the island, where peace and quiet are as plentiful as vibrant activity.
The community hosts numerous social events, activities and clubs connecting members by their passions for nature, art and giving back locally. Members take full advantage of the island parks, historical sites and recreation areas for enjoying remarkable views of undisturbed nature. Island dwellers have access to four community docks providing leased slips, kayak launches and excellent opportunities for fishing, crabbing and shrimping. The River Club, overlooking the Colleton River, is a warm gathering center with a library and fireplace, family swimming pool, and offers seasonal dining.
For those seeking a golfing experience like no other, the 27-hole, Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course is truly spectacular. Voted one of South Carolina’s top 50 courses, Callawassie recently enhanced the design with a four-million-dollar renovation in 2014. This renovation resulted in a brand-new pro shop with three Class A PGA Golf Professionals. The courses meander intimately along the waterways and salt marshes in a way that environmental regulations have made difficult for newer courses; visual interest is natural not manmade.
Callawassie Island is the first South Carolina gated community to have been designated a “Community Wildlife Habitat” by the National Wildlife Federation. This coexistence brings a true community balance with nature. The island is covered with live oaks and palmettos, egrets and herons, and encompasses a thriving salt marsh ecosystem.
Today, Callawassie is one of only four South Carolina communities holding this distinguished designation. The homes and homesites, including waterfront property, are among the best values in the area.
The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach
The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach, located in the southernmost area of Coastal North Carolina, is the epitome of beach living with the added convenience and low maintenance of a planned community. Located steps away from local shops and restaurants, you can enjoy the laid-back coastal lifestyle Sunset Beach is known for. The resort-inspired amenities will make a weekend at home feel like a vacation getaway. Amenities within the community will include a resort-style pool with tanning ledge and lap lanes, coastal clubhouse, fitness center, open air cabana, outdoor fireplace, grilling stations, outdoor lounge area, golf cart parking, and miles of sidewalks & walking paths. The Sanctuary is only minutes from the beach (1.5 miles) and the intracoastal waterway, in close proximity to a variety of restaurants, beach shops, boutiques, the Sunset Beach Fishing Pier, bars & pubs, concerts at The Village Park COA Gazebo, golf courses, The Ingram Planetarium, local markets, and public parks. Well-appointed single family home and land package, both pre-designed and build to suit, are offered from the mid $400’s to $800’s. As one of the area’s premier new home communities with a color palette inspired by the sand, sun, salt, and sea, let The Sanctuary at Sunset Beach be your oasis at home!
Visit www.billclarkhomes.com to explore your new home options today!
Black Creek Chattanooga
Black Creek – Chattanooga, Tennessee
Where Living Comes Naturally.
Tucked into the scenic foothills just 10 minutes from downtown Chattanooga, Black Creek isn’t just a neighborhood—it’s a lifestyle rooted in nature, community, and connection. For more than 25 years, this master-planned community has brought together people who want more from where they live: more natural beauty, deeper connections, and the kind of everyday convenience that makes life feel effortless.
Now entering its most exciting chapter yet, Black Creek is expanding with new homes, enhanced amenities, a future mountaintop village, and a nine-acre lake. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful retreat or easy access to a thriving city, Black Creek offers the best of both worlds.
With hundreds of acres of protected land, miles of private hiking and mountain biking trails, and scenic mountain views, outdoor adventure is woven into daily life. At the heart of it all is Black Creek Club, where optional memberships include access to golf, racquet courts, fitness, chef-led dining, and a year-round calendar of social events.
Chattanooga’s mild four-season climate, no state income tax, and easy airport access make living here not only enriching, but practical. From active retirees to second-home seekers to families planning their forever home, people come to Black Creek for the views—and stay for the lifestyle.
Hampton Hall Club
Imagine for a minute you’re visiting the private club community of Hampton Hall in Bluffton, SC. You’ve gotten over the awe of the dramatic and picturesque Lowcountry landscape, and you’re starting to take in your surroundings. The first thing you’re probably going to hear is laughter. Depending on where you’re standing, it could be coming from the lakeside resort pool, or the Pete Dye golf course, or maybe one of the various dining venues. For while everything here is beautiful to look at and expertly maintained and cared for, the key component is fun and enjoyment.
We thought you should be prepared for that because, sure enough, the tennis pro will coax you on to the courts, or the threesome about to tee off will enlist you into completing their group. You see, the minute you pass through the gates at Hampton Hall, something changes. You are at once connected with this club and community. A place you may have never known existed, right up until the moment you fall in love with it.
We invite you inside the gates to tour Hampton Hall. Come see if you feel a connection with this Lowcountry private club community. Come see if Hampton Hall feels like home.
River Landing
Tucked away near the coast of Eastern NC is a picture-perfect community, complete with world-class club amenities while still maintaining the charm and ease of a small hometown. River Landing’s two championship golf courses are ideal for working on your game. Or perhaps you prefer exploring the outdoors along the scenic walking and biking trails? Whether you are starting a family or starting your retirement, River Landing has something for everyone. From enhancing your golf game to exploring the outdoors, the River Landing community offers a wide variety of activities for residents of all ages. A grand Clubhouse, Outdoor Pool, and expansive homesites are just some of the things you’ll find to enjoy.
Lakewood Ranch
Live the Florida lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of—with 30+ villages, each featuring distinctive homes, amenities, and features, Lakewood Ranch is designed to support every aspect of your life. New homes include townhomes, condos, attached villas, single-family homes and estates, with prices from the $300s to over $1 million.
We set out to build a community that is more than just the homes it’s made up of. Here, you’ll find all the shopping, dining, entertainment, education, healthcare, nature, and recreational options you could want to make the most out of every day. And the best part is that it’s all already here. You don’t have to envision it—you can simply start living it.
Our 48% open space plan and mixed-use component work together to provide each village on The Ranch with easy access to parks, trails, and recreational opportunities like three town centers, a sports campus featuring pickleball, Sarasota Polo Club, and The Farmers’ Market.
Just beyond our backyard you can enjoy Sarasota’s white sand beaches and arts scene, Tampa’s sports teams, and quick access to four airports.
ideal-LIVING has named Lakewood Ranch Best Health and Fitness Community and Best Golf Community. Lakewood Ranch has also earned the spot as the #1 multi-generational best-selling master-planned community since 2018.
Come explore Florida’s favorite place to call home. LakewoodRanch.com
What to expect at The Ranch:
• 30+ villages, 2 are 55+
• 3 town centers & 8 neighborhood shopping plazas with Publix Grocery stores
• 150 miles of multi-surface trails
• 10,000+ acres of lakes, parks, and preserves
• 60+ clubs and groups
• Over 200 shops and eateries
• 13 community parks
• 192 holes of golf
• 32 courts for racquet sports
• A-rated schools & higher education campuses
• Sarasota Polo Club
• Farmers’ Market voted #1 in Florida
• Lakewood Ranch Golf & Country Club
• 22 fields at Premier Sports Campus
• Sights and Sounds Performing and Fine Arts Series
Ready to discover it? Great. Request more information below to receive discovery tour packages
and specials. You won’t know until you go!
The Governors Land at Two Rivers
Beautifully built on 1,400+ acres nestled between the majestic James and Chickahominy Rivers, The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers is a private, member-owned country club community of distinction where new neighbors become family and peace of mind is a priority. Discover an immediate sense of serenity in our pleasantly spacious, hidden gem of a neighborhood that embodies the charm of Williamsburg, Virginia.
Enjoy membership at Two Rivers Country Club, home to our top-rated Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, first-class dining, a full calendar of social events and our deepwater, protected Marina.
The Governor’s Land at Two Rivers is a natural haven where our diverse community of families and retirees have discovered an undeniable allure and wish to preserve our place of beauty and tranquility. Easily access the Historic Triangle of Williamsburg, Jamestown and Yorktown and the College of William & Mary.
Schedule your Discovery Visit and experience our lively, welcoming, one-of-a-kind community in Williamsburg Virginia, consistently awarded as one of the best places to live by USA Today, Southern Living, Travel & Leisure and more!
The Uplands 55+ Active Adult Community in Suncadia
Announcing a new way to live at Suncadia: The Uplands 55+. Exclusive to residents 55 and older, this new, private gated neighborhood will nestle high on a forested ridge overlooking the Cle Elum River valley. Creating the tight-knit feel of a private retreat — but with access to Suncadia’s resort amenities too.
The Uplands 55+ will be an intimate neighborhood of only 60 homes gathered around a private clubhouse, trails and a three-acre woodland meadow.
The community clubhouse will include indoor and outdoor gathering spaces including a pool, pickleball court and more. A large, protected meadow will provide another connection point for social events, nature walks and impromptu gatherings.
The Isles of Collier Preserve
Hurry for Special Pricing on Final Phase, and for a limited time, receive $100,000 in free home options! Limited opportunities remain to buy a new home at The Isles.
Nestled within a pristine natural setting just minutes from Downtown Naples, Florida’s preeminent new home builder is creating a colorful update of classic coastal living. Inspired by the timeless architecture and traditions of Old Naples, elegant new Minto homes overlook miles of scenic kayak and hiking trails. With over half of the 2,400 acres dedicated to lakes, nature preserves, and natural habitat, combined with outdoor-inspired amenities, The Isles of Collier Preserve is an extraordinary new active adult gated community where the magic of Old Naples and unspoiled nature still coexist.
Enjoy all aspects of an active lifestyle influenced by wellness at The Isles Club, featuring resort-style amenities such as a resort-style pool, state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, and a yoga lawn. After a scenic day exploring this beautiful community, sip on cocktails and savor coastal Florida flavors with family and neighbors at the resident-exclusive Overlook Bar & Grill, overlooking the Cypress Waterway.
The Isles is a master-planned community boasting 1,600 unique coastal-themed new construction residences for sale from the $500s, many with stunning water and nature views.
Port Ludlow
For retirees, active adults, and remote workers, Port Ludlow is an inviting resort-style community on the shores of Puget Sound in the state of Washington.
Westharbor Homes is building new Port Ludlow residences to the highest environmental standards with energy-saving appliances. In the Ludlow Cove Cottages and Olympic Terrace II neighborhoods, you’ll find a delightful variety of floor plans, including beachfront single-family homes, waterfront condominiums, and spacious villas with fairway views.
The amenities and activities at Port Ludlow start with play on the community’s 18-hole golf course, a scenic layout along the water and through the maritime forest. The 300-slip marina offers complete boating services and launches for kayaks and paddleboards. In addition, there are two community clubhouses with fitness centers, swimming pools, and tennis/pickleball courts. You can also enjoy 30+ miles of walking trails, more than 100 community social clubs, and genuine farm-to-table dining with fresh seafood always on the menu at the Fireside Restaurant.
The nearby towns of Chimacum and Port Townsend feature cafes, bakeries, artisan shops, and grocery markets, plus convenient health care services that include specialty practices. And just a 30-minute ferry ride away is the dynamic city of Seattle, home to some of the nation’s leading hi-tech companies, a thriving cultural arts scene, and major professional sports teams.
When you request more information below, you’ll be on your way to discovering the waterfront lifestyle in the Pacific Northwest at Port Ludlow.
Check out our 360 degree view of Port Ludow by clicking here!
Amelia National Golf and Country Club
A Place to Call Home. Amelia National Golf & Country Club, a new home community in Fernandina Beach, FL, provides residents with some of the most sought after amenities. Manned, gated security, 18 holes of immaculate golf from master designer, Tom Fazio, practice facilities, brand new lighted tennis courts, fitness center with spa, and a charming French provincial county club featuring a resort-style pool are just a few of the amenities we offer.
- Manned, Gated Security
- Private Tom Fazio Golf Course
- Low Initiation Fee
- Practice Facilities & Pro Shop
- On Staff Golf Pro
- Use Your Own Golf Cart
- Brand New Lighted Tennis Facility
- On Staff Tennis Pro
- Clubhouse with Full Bar and Dining
- Community Pool with Hot Tub
- State-of-the-Art Fitness Center & Spa
- Homes with Golf & Preserve Views
Location, Location, Location
Amelia National’s close proximity to Amelia Island, the Jacksonville International Airport and the beach make it a highly desirable location for those looking for new homes in Fernandina Beach. Some of the finest restaurants, shopping and attractions are just a short drive from your front door. If you are feeling a little more adventurous, the heart of Jacksonville, St. Augustine and Georgia are easily accessible because of Amelia National’s convenient location just a few miles from interstate 95.
Homes that Meet Your Exact Needs
Luxury homes of grace, beauty and magnificent golf course views. ICI Homes has earned its reputation as Florida’s Custom Home Builder by offering in-house architectural services so you can design your new custom home from scratch or from a favorite plan you’ve found. Or if you’d prefer, you can select from our extensive portfolio of award-winning floors plans, all of which can be totally customized to suit.
Because ICI Homes has built thousands of homes, from affordable villas to breathtaking mansions, ICI Homes benefits from a volume purchasing advantage that ensures your home is built with the best quality materials at the greatest value for your money. Building a brand-new, one-of-a-kind home easy and surprisingly affordable, with home/lot packages starting from the $300’s.
Afton Villas
This new Active Adult community is located near historic Fredericksburg, Virginia just a mile off I-95 with close proximity to a wide array of restaurants, shopping and entertainment options. Spotsylvania Regional Medical Center, and University of Mary Washington Hospital are also located less than 10 minutes from the community. The new 470,000 square foot state-of-the-art VA hospital, Fredericksburg Health Care Center, is under construction will open in 2024.
Afton Villas offers many wellness and healthy activities: 2 Pickleball courts with monthly complimentary lessons, *1.75 miles of sidewalks for power walking or just strolling with friends & pets, monthly Social Activities to include: Meet Your Neighbors Get Togethers, Book Clubs, Game Nights, Community BBQ’s and much more.
Innovative attached Villa homes feature a 2-car garage, spacious main level owner’s suite, and open kitchen, dining, and great room layout. Upstairs has plenty of room for guests with a large loft area, 2 additional bedrooms, and a full bath. Downstairs, there’s plenty of storage or homebuyers have the ability to add more finished spaces.
Cresswind Charleston
Cresswind Charleston brings the award-winning Cresswind active adult lifestyle to the Charleston area. This gated community is integrated within the thriving community of The Ponds while maintaining its own privacy. Cresswind features a full list of resort-style amenities, all located within a natural, Lowcountry setting.
Residents can take a short walk to the 12,000-square-foot clubhouse, enjoy pickleball and tennis or participate in activities at the event lawn and amphitheater. Additionally, homeowners have the opportunity to enrich their lives with cooking and yoga classes or bocce ball. Residents also can nurture their talent in the art room, play pool, swim in the resort-style pool, fish or kayak – and stay fit and healthy at a well-equipped fitness center.
Cresswind Charleston offers spacious homes featuring a wide range of personalization opportunities, designer choices, uniquely designed with careful attention to details. Single-family, ranch-style homes will include designer features, energy efficiency and designs complementary to active living. Tour nine designer-decorated model homes, open daily.
Ready to live in a land preservation community?
Below you'll find overviews of the nation's finest land preservation communities. You can request more information about these featured developments, including details about the land set aside in preservation trusts or conservation easements.
If you want to know more, connect with community representatives and local experts who can answer your specific questions. Then plan a visit when you're ready to walk the nature trails and check out the other outstanding lifestyle amenities that are available in these premier land preservation communities.