Roper Island: An 8,700-Acre Sanctuary for Sale in North Carolina
Nestled between the Alligator River and the sprawling Pamlico Sound, Roper Island presents a unique opportunity for buyers seeking an exclusive slice of nature. Spanning a remarkable 8,700 acres, this private island is currently back on the market with a price tag of $5.8 million.
A Natural Wonderland
Often referred to as the “Amazon rainforest of the Eastern Seaboard,” Roper Island is a biodiversity hotspot. Its landscape boasts a blend of swamp, pocosin, and dense coastal forests, making it a unique ecosystem brimming with life. Here, you can find an abundance of black bears, wild hogs, ducks, and turkeys. This rich wildlife setting makes Roper Island not only visually stunning but also a paradise for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
An Adventurer’s Dream
According to Aaron Sutton, managing broker at National Land Realty, Roper Island represents one of the largest contiguous tracts of land available for sale in North Carolina. “It’s a cool property for an adventurous person,” Sutton commented, emphasizing the island’s allure as an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban living. However, potential buyers should note that the island’s remoteness adds to its charm; it’s accessible only by boat, offering a serene retreat far removed from roads and commercial development.
Development Potential and Limitations
Roper Island features 3.5 miles of developable waterfront alongside a 53-acre mainland tract that provides electrical access—ideal for constructing a private lodge or marina. Despite this potential, Sutton cautions that the island’s unique wetlands environment and existing conservation easement on the main portion make large-scale development quite complex.
The property shines as a recreational space appealing predominantly to hunters. Sutton explained, “It’s a recreational property. Basically, the only thing you can do is hunt it.” In Hyde County, hunting bears can be extremely lucrative, with fees upwards of $30,000, making it a financially enticing option for avid hunters.
Recent History and Ownership
In a remarkable turn of events, Roper Island Wildlife Refuge LLC purchased the island, initially acquiring 8,200 acres sight unseen for $1.4 million in November 2022. The company, managed by Hugh Giffords, Patrick Scott Van Pelt, and William Henry Van Pelt—all based in Houston, Texas—later combined it with a privately owned 500-acre strip of waterfront.
Sutton, who brokered the original sale, stated that the LLC was drawn to acquire a remote property, amplifying the island’s secluded allure despite its challenges.
Hyde County Real Estate Landscape
Hyde County, despite its small population, boasts a vast geographical expanse of around 1,459 square miles, making it one of North Carolina’s largest counties. The real estate market here is diverse, featuring everything from rural lots priced at $18,000 to multimillion-dollar coastal holdings like Roper Island.
As of October, the county recorded a median sale price of $304,000 for single-family homes, reflecting a year-over-year decrease of 11.8%. This trend indicates a dynamic market, poised for shifts that can either enhance or diminish property values.
Conclusion
Roper Island beckons to those looking for an exceptional piece of land infused with natural beauty and recreational potential. Whether for hunting, relaxing, or building a private retreat, this expansive island could serve as a remarkable sanctuary for the right buyer. As interest in the property grows, Sutton remains optimistic about its prospects, expecting a sale within six to twelve months.