My neighbor buried two 1500 gallon tanks in his yard when he built his compound. We live on solid limestone, so it took a lot of digging. Both have been full for the past couple of years. He is getting ready to install a pump for his garden and lawn.
I envy your neighbor. If I ever sell my investment property at a decent price, a cistern is right up there at the top of the list right after pay off the mortgage.LOL