Personal items of campers are seen outside a cabin at Camp Mystic near the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas, on July 7, 2025, following a devastating flash flood.
Eli Hartman/AP
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Eli Hartman/AP
Camp Mystic is set to welcome campers again next summer at its location near where a tragic flood claimed the lives of 27 girls and counselors last July.
The fatal incident occurred when the Guadalupe River surged rapidly, sweeping through the camp situated in a flood-prone region often referred to as flash flood alley. This catastrophic event was part of a larger disaster that struck Texas on Independence Day, resulting in at least 136 fatalities and widespread destruction of homes and vehicles.
In a message sent Monday to the families affected by the tragedy, Camp Mystic confirmed its reopening plans, emphasizing that all future operations will comply with the newly enacted camp safety laws championed by those families. Shortly after, the camp extended this announcement to the broader community.
Additionally, the camp revealed intentions to establish a memorial honoring the young lives lost in the flood.
“Our memorial will aim to reflect the beauty, compassion, and spirit of the girls, celebrating the happiness they brought and continue to inspire in all of us,” the camp’s statement expressed.
Following the tragedy, parents of the victims advocated successfully for Texas lawmakers to enact legislation aimed at preventing future disasters at children’s camps. These laws prohibit the construction of cabins in high-risk flood zones, mandate comprehensive emergency preparedness plans, require staff training, and enforce the installation and upkeep of emergency alert systems. One bill allocates $240 million from the state’s rainy day fund to support disaster response, including funding for sirens and enhanced weather monitoring.
“The pain my family endures is immeasurable, especially knowing that these safeguards were not in place to protect my daughter and the other girls,” a grieving parent shared. “I urge lawmakers to pass this legislation, safeguard our children, and ensure their memories lead to meaningful change.”
The reopening will involve Camp Mystic Cypress Lake, a related site that began hosting campers in 2020. However, the original Camp Mystic Guadalupe, which has a 99-year history, sustained too much damage to resume operations next year.
According to the camp’s correspondence, leadership is collaborating with engineers and specialists to integrate the necessary changes mandated by the new safety regulations.
