Karnes County is one of the Texas counties in the US. The county has a population of 14,710 according to the 2020 census, and Karnes is its county seat. The county is named after Henry Karnes, a highly respected soldier during the Texas Revolution.

Karnes county covers an area of 754 square miles. It has 6.0 square miles surrounded by water, which makes up for 0.8% of the area. The county is located north of Bee County and southwest of Live Oak County. DeWitt County is on its east and Atascosa County on its west.

History of Karnes County

Karnes County has a rich history with massive milestones in terms of development. The county was founded on February 4th, 1854. The first election was held on February 27th, 1854, when the county offices were established. However, the administration still faced many challenges, including rustlers and outlaws. In addition, it was the hotbed for most of the Cart Wars between the Mexicans and the Texans.

The county started growing in terms of development during the mid-1880s. During this time, agriculture started booming due to the introduction of railroads. The introduction of cotton, sorghum, and potatoes during the Civil War further boosted the development. The population also grew steadily between 1900 – 1930 due to the stability in the county. However, there was a massive decrease during the First World War.

By the 1980s, the county was back on its feet with maximum concentration in the education sector. There was also a massive increase in agriculture and business around the same time. By the 21st century, the county was already into oil and gas production.

Currently, Karnes County produces over 363,800 barrels of oil annually. It is also a significant economic block and holds many historical sites in the area. Karnes is also home to various museums and is a great tourist attraction.

Major Towns in Karnes County

Karnes County has many cities and towns that are its economic backbones. Karnes City is the county seat and also has various businesses and museums. The city has a population of 3,042, according to the 2019 census. It covers a total area of 2.32 square miles.

The city started growing in the 1890s when the railway started in the region. It is home to several elementary, primary, and higher learning institutions in the area.

Kenedy is also a big city in Karnes County. It is the largest city in the county, covering an area of 3.68 square miles. It also has a population of 3,296 with a density of 914.62/ square miles. The most prominent school in the city is the Kenedy Independent School District. It also has several good businesses and companies in the region.

Falls City is also one of the cities found in the county. It is located on the northern edge at a distance of 44 miles from San Antonio. It has a population of 611 residents and is home to many historical museums. Runge town is also found in Karnes County and holds several businesses and schools. The city’s population is 1,031 residents.

Karnes County Census Statistics

According to the US Census Bureau, Karnes County has a population of about 15,601 people. This is according to the July 1st, 2019 census. Females take up 41.4% of the population. Persons under five years are 5.9%, while those over 65 years are 14.2%.

In terms of race, Whites are the largest group, being 88.3% of the population. The rest include Black/ African Americans who are 9.1%, Asians, and other Natives. The median household income is $56,127, while 21.0% represents residents in poverty.

Places to Visit in Karnes

Karnes County is one of the best places to visit in Texas. It is not only beautiful, but the residents are amicable. It is also home to the most serene hotels, parks, and historical museums. These are some of the best places to visit in Karnes City, Texas.

Helena: This is a place located a few miles north of Karnes City. It holds some of the best histories of the city.
Karnes County Courthouse: It is an important historic site and a major landmark. The courthouse is also beautifully designed and has breathtaking architecture.
Whiteside Ranch: If you love ranches, then this is an excellent place for you. It has several ranches with a wide variety of animals in it.
Best Lake: This lake has one of the most serene beauty. It is an excellent place to visit away from city noises and stress.
Cibolo Creek: If you love fishing and hiking, visit this place. It is the best place to visit and reconnect with nature. You’ll also enjoy the beautiful gardens and park.

Other places to visit in Karnes County include Karnes City Park, Trey Merritt, Karnes County Museum, and Coyotes. You’ll also find some great restaurants, hotels, and eateries.

Karnes County Offices

Several administrative offices lead Karnes County. They ensure the smooth running of the county and adherence to the rule of law.

The County Judge is Hon. Wade J Hedtke. His phone number is (830) 623-0596, and his fax contact is (830) 780-4538. Commissioners assist him.

Precinct 1 Commissioner is Shelby Dupnik. Contact them on (830)-299-1524
Precinct 2 Commissioner is Benny Lyssy, whose number is (830) 254-0577
Precinct 3 Commissioner is James Rosales. Contact him on (830) 623-4669
Precinct 4 commissioner is Sharon Chesser, whose contact is (830) 583-6551

The County Attorney is Jennifer M. Dillingham. Her phone number is (830) 780-3736, and her fax is (830) 780-4790.

Tom Dupnick, EA, is the County Auditor. Their phone number is 830-780-2721, and their fax is 870-780-4530.

The County Clerk is Carol Size. You can contact her through (830) 780-3938 or fax via (830) 780-4576.

Vi Swierc is the County Treasurer. Their contact is (830) 780-2312, and their fax is (830) 780-4530.

Tammy Braudaway is the County Tax Assessor/ Collector. Their phone number is 830-780-2431, and their fax is 830-780-4530.

The County Sheriff is Dwayne Villanueva. Their offices are located at 500 E. Wall Street, Karnes City, Texas 78118. You can contact them at (830) 780-3931.