James Van Der Beek, best known for his iconic role on Dawson’s Creek, made a significant life change by moving his family from bustling Los Angeles to the serene countryside of Texas. The decision came at the height of the pandemic, and since then, James and his wife, Kimberly, along with their six children, have embraced a quieter, more grounded life in the Lone Star State. Now, as James faces a serious health battle, his family’s love and support are at the heart of his journey. Here’s an inside look at how the Van Der Beeks are creating cherished memories in their Texas home.
James and Kimberly Van Der Beek in their old home in a post from May 19, 2014 | Source: YouTube/People
A New Chapter in Texas
In 2020, James and Kimberly left behind the fast-paced lifestyle of Los Angeles, choosing instead to settle in a spacious home surrounded by nature. James shared a touching post on Instagram that year, featuring his family gathered around a tree on their new Texas property. “Sometimes a fuller life begins with an empty house,” he wrote, expressing gratitude for the memories they created in LA but excitement for their new adventure.
For the Van Der Beeks, Texas symbolized freedom—a chance to let their children roam, explore, and grow up connected to the land. The couple took the opportunity to transform the property into a family haven, adding personal touches to make it feel like home. This move was especially meaningful for Kimberly, who had long dreamed of a life outside LA and finally saw that vision come to life.
The Health Battle That Changed Everything
In November 2024, James Van Der Beek publicly revealed a private struggle he’d been facing: he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. The 47-year-old actor shared his journey with courage and optimism, saying, “I have colorectal cancer. I’ve been privately dealing with this diagnosis and have been taking steps to resolve it, with the support of my incredible family.” He added that he was feeling hopeful and optimistic, thanks to the love surrounding him.
For Kimberly, this news only strengthened her commitment to her husband. She posted a heartfelt message on her Instagram Story, featuring two Northern Cardinals—birds that symbolize love and loyalty. Her message to James was simple but powerful: “Hi baby,” set to the song So This Is Love. Her post conveyed the deep bond and unwavering support she has for her husband.
A Family-Oriented Life on 36 Acres
The Van Der Beek family now resides on an expansive 36-acre property in Spicewood, Texas, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Kimberly shared in a post that their Texas home provided the room their growing family needed, something LA couldn’t offer. The kids can run freely, climb trees, and explore the countryside—a dream come true for any child.
The property has even become a gathering place for extended family. Kimberly’s sister and her husband moved onto the land as well, joining the Van Der Beeks in building a true family compound. With barns, a garden, and even a chicken coop, the Van Der Beeks have fully embraced country living.
Glimpses of the Texas Homestead
From poolside afternoons to family hikes, James and Kimberly frequently share moments from their idyllic life on social media. In 2021, the family posed for the cover of Austin Life magazine, showcasing their Texas roots. By Mother’s Day 2023, the family had welcomed their sixth child, and their social media feeds were filled with images of life on the land.
In one photo, James is seen tossing one of his kids into the air by the pool, their laughter and joy reflecting the freedom of their new lifestyle. Another post shows Kimberly in the garden, raising chickens and growing vibrant flowers. The couple has even added dogs to their family, and their children often play with neighboring horses, creating a truly rustic experience.
Exploring the Interiors of the Van Der Beek Texas Home
Inside, the Van Der Beek home has a rustic charm with plenty of woodwork and cozy, family-friendly spaces. James and Kimberly’s kitchen, often shown in James’ Instagram photos, features exposed brick and classic wooden accents. It’s a warm, inviting space where family meals are prepared, and memories are made.
The house boasts a spacious living room, five bedrooms, and additional quarters for guests, making it perfect for family gatherings. Kimberly frequently posts images of their children in various corners of the house, capturing simple moments that reflect a close-knit family life. There’s a mudroom, a cozy reading nook, and even a spa area, blending functionality with Texas charm.
One highlight is their deck, which offers breathtaking views of the Pedernales River, and a tram that overlooks the landscape. It’s the perfect spot for unwinding or watching Texas sunsets, and for James, it provides a peaceful setting to focus on healing and reflection.
Creating New Traditions and Cherished Memories
Life in Texas has allowed the Van Der Beeks to create new family traditions, especially around holidays. For Halloween, the family enjoys dressing up and posing outdoors, with the picturesque Texas landscape serving as a backdrop. They gather around a fire pit on cool evenings, sharing stories and laughter under the stars.
On Father’s Day 2024, Kimberly posted a touching tribute to James, sharing photos of him with their children on one of their property walks. “I’ll tell you a secret,” she wrote in another post, “this cost less than it cost to live in Beverly Hills.” The remark hints at the simplicity and value of their new life, a stark contrast to the costly LA lifestyle.
Living in Harmony with Nature
Since moving to Texas, Kimberly has embraced her country roots, gardening and raising Heritage Welsummers chickens, and teaching her children about sustainability. Their ranch bursts with flowers each spring, and the children learn firsthand about caring for animals and respecting nature.
Even the pets have adapted to Texas life, with their dogs growing bigger and more playful. The children play with neighbors’ horses, explore the property on their bikes, and feed kitchen scraps to the chickens—a true farm-to-table experience for the whole family.
A Heartfelt Journey Together
For the Van Der Beeks, the move to Texas was more than just a change of scenery. It was a new chapter centered on family, love, and resilience. As James faces his health battle, the peaceful, supportive environment they’ve created offers him strength. His story is a testament to the power of family, nature, and the importance of finding a place that feels like home.
Conclusion: Finding Strength in Love and Family
James Van Der Beek’s journey is a reminder of the strength and beauty found in family support and the grounding effect of nature. From a bustling LA life to serene Texas sunsets, the Van Der Beeks have found a new rhythm that nourishes their hearts and souls. As James faces his health challenges, his family stands by his side, their Texas home providing the warmth and comfort they need.
In this quiet sanctuary, love, resilience, and togetherness guide their days, showing that home truly is where the heart is. For James, Kimberly, and their children, life in Texas isn’t just about a change in location—it’s about building a life filled with love, joy, and the unwavering support of family.
