
Recreational Land for Sale in Van Lear, Kentucky
3800A Butcher Hollow Rd, Van Lear, KY 41265
Beyond its natural beauty, this exceptional 3,800+/- acre tract carries a deep-rooted Appalachian heritage, originating from former coal lands and positioned directly behind the famed Loretta Lynn's Homeplace. Located in the heart of Van Lear a community rich in coal mining history and widely recognized for its ties to country music legend Loretta Lynn this property offers a rare blend of cultural significance and large-scale land opportunity. Strategically situated along Miller's Creek Road, the property provides convenient access while maintaining privacy and seclusion across its expansive acreage. It is located just a short drive from Dewey Lake, a well-known destination for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The property also benefits from regional accessibility, with proximity to Interstate 64 and Interstate 75, allowing for connectivity to larger markets. Nearby airports include Big Sandy Regional Airport for regional travel and Tri-State Airport for broader commercial access. The acreage features a diverse landscape with multiple established trail systems, including connectivity to the well-known First Frontier Appalachian Trail System, making it ideal for ATV/UTV recreation or potential expansion into a destination trail system. Expansive areas of flat, reclaimed ground provide excellent usability for development, agriculture, or recreational infrastructure. Portions of the land have been thoughtfully reclaimed with wildlife in mind, including wetland areas that enhance habitat and biodiversity. Located within Kentucky's Elk Zone, the property presents outstanding hunting and wildlife opportunities, further increasing its recreational appeal. From a development standpoint, this tract holds unique potential. Its proximity to Butcher Hollow and the Loretta Lynn Homeplace creates an opportunity to capitalize on tourism tied to country music history similar in concept to destinations like Pigeon Forge. Whether envisioned as a recreational retreat, hunting preserve, trail system expansion, or a themed destination property, the possibilities here are extensive. The property has been select-cut for timber periodically over the past 20 years, with the most recent harvest occurring approximately three years ago. Utilities, including electric and water, are available in sections of the property, and sellers believe sewer access may be present; however, all utilities should be independently verified. The property is not fully surveyed and is being sold as-is, where-is, with all inspections welcomed. Mineral rights do not convey. Buyer and buyer's agent to verify all aspects of the property. With its combination of scale, history, accessibility, and versatility, this is a truly rare offering in Eastern Kentucky with far-reaching potential. Location 37.76899, - 82.69533
Location
- Street address
- 3800A Butcher Hollow Rd
- County
- Johnson County
- Elevation
- 718 feet
Directions
Travel 4.8 miles on Kentucky Route 3 (Bays Branch area). Continue for 2.6 miles on Kentucky Route 3. Turn left onto Old Route 3 Loop E and follow for 5.8 miles. Turn right onto Millers Creek Road and continue approximately 1.8 miles. The destination will be on Millers Creek Road in Van Lear. Location 37.76899, - 82.69533
Property details
- Acreage
- 3,800 acres
- Zoning
- AR
- MLS #
- LBAR 26006361
- Posted
Parcels
- 002-00-00-003.00 062-00-00-022.00 062-00-00-08.
Details and features
Listing
- Type
- Land
Lot
- Features
- Cleared, Hilly, Level, Wooded
Property utilities
| Category | Type | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Public | Available |
Listing history
| Date | Event | Price | Change | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 29, 2026 | New listing | $3,800,000 | — | LBAR |




















































































