We live out in the country, too. The only nearby neighbor loves our dogs as much as we do and visits them all the time. There are no access roads, driveways, or paths to the kennel, which is out of sight of the road.
I brought up the crate-thing because to me it's like the outdoor dog question -- there is no set right or wrong, it depends on your perspective and experience. Do what works for YOU and YOUR dogs so you are happy and they are too.