Texas Flags Safety Deficiencies at Camp Mystic Before Reopening

Texas regulators have identified numerous safety deficiencies in Camp Mystic’s emergency plan, requiring corrections before the camp can reopen this summer. The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) sent an 11-page deficiency notice to the all-girls Christian camp, which was the site of a deadly flash flood last July that killed 27 people, including 25 campers and two counselors.

The DSHS letter highlighted critical gaps such as missing floodplain maps, unclear evacuation procedures, undefined staff roles during emergencies, incomplete disability accommodations, and insufficient coordination with 911 and local authorities. The agency also noted a lack of a designated emergency preparedness coordinator and an inadequate emergency warning system. Parent notification processes were also found to be insufficient, with the state requesting a clear procedure to inform guardians if any camp areas are located within a floodplain.

Camp Mystic, located along the Guadalupe River in Central Texas, had planned to partially reopen at a nearby Cypress Lake site for its 100th summer season. However, the camp must address all identified deficiencies and resubmit a corrected emergency plan within 45 days to gain approval from DSHS. The agency emphasized that the deficiency notice is part of a routine licensing review under new emergency-planning laws, and all 174 camps submitting plans this year received similar letters. Emergency plans are confidential and cannot be publicly released.

An attorney representing Camp Mystic stated, “Camp Mystic is carefully reviewing the notice from DSHS, and we are working closely with DSHS through the appropriate process to address the areas outlined. Our priority remains the safety and well-being of our campers, and we hope to continue the nearly century-long mission and ministry of Camp Mystic to provide a Christian camping experience for girls that allows them to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually.”

The July 4, 2025 flood was triggered by slow-moving thunderstorms that caused the Guadalupe River to overflow, sweeping through low-lying cabins where campers and counselors were sleeping. Investigations revealed that camp leaders did not act on National Weather Service flood warnings, delayed evacuation decisions, and faced communication challenges due to the absence of cellphones in cabins and limited radios.

The tragedy resulted in lawsuits and state and legislative investigations. In February, families of nine victims sued the state, alleging failure to enforce a requirement that the camp have an evacuation plan. One camper remains missing. The disaster also prompted sweeping changes to Texas youth camp safety laws.

As Camp Mystic works to meet state requirements, the DSHS Youth Camp Program is available to assist with corrective actions. The camp’s reopening remains contingent on fully addressing the safety deficiencies identified by regulators.