Kountze, TX Homes for Rent

Situated 25 miles north of Beaumont in the piney woods of the Big Thicket, Kountze is a small rural town of fewer than 2,000 people. While nearby towns like Lumberton and Silsbee have absorbed suburban growth, Kountze has held onto its country character. The housing stock includes older country bungalows, manufactured homes and ranch-style houses on lots reaching up to 20 acres. For most shopping beyond a Family Dollar and Dollar General, residents make the 25-mile drive to Beaumont, where the closest hospital is also located. Getting around depends largely on personal vehicles, though South East Texas Transit provides countywide rides for a nominal fare.

The Big Thicket National Preserve, where nine ecosystems converge in Southeast Texas, anchors outdoor things to do in Kountze. Nearly 40 miles of forested trails run alongside the Neches River and Village Creek, a popular canoe stream with options from a 1.5-mile beginner loop to the 17-mile Turkey Creek Trail. Free hunting permits are available, and camping is on offer at Indian Springs Campground. The Kirby Hill House, a historic Queen Anne museum, hosts murder mystery dinners and an annual Art Extravaganza. The Chamber of Commerce runs a monthly farmers market at George Washington Carver Memorial Park.

Students attend schools in the Kountze Independent School District, spanning preschool through high school, and Kountze High School offers dual credit courses for college credit. Mama Jack's is known for weekday buffets and weekend live music, and Caroline's Quality & Quantity serves barbecue.