Camp Mystic, a popular summer retreat in the Texas Hill Country, found itself at the center of scrutiny this week after a sudden flood swept through its grounds, raising concerns about the adequacy and implementation of its disaster preparedness plan. As emergency crews continued cleanup efforts on Wednesday, families and local officials are pressing for answers about what went wrong.
Flood Strikes Camp Mystic
On July 7, 2025, heavy overnight rains caused the Guadalupe River to overflow, inundating the historic camp with several feet of water. Over 400 campers and staff were safely evacuated thanks to swift action by counselors and local first responders. However, the rapid rise of floodwaters caught many by surprise, and some parents reported confusion over communication and evacuation protocols.
Disaster Plan Under Scrutiny
According to public records and statements from camp management, Camp Mystic had an updated emergency preparedness plan in place, including flood evacuation routes and communication strategies. The plan, last revised in March 2025, was designed to comply with both state and federal safety regulations for youth camps.
Despite these measures, some families say the real-time response fell short. "We had no idea the situation was so dire until we saw it on social media," said one Austin parent whose daughter attended the camp. Others reported delays in official updates as the flood unfolded.
Officials and Experts Weigh In
Kerr County emergency management officials confirmed that the camp followed basic procedures for evacuation but noted that the speed and intensity of the flooding may have outpaced the camp's planning. "The region experienced more than 8 inches of rain in a few hours — an event classified as a 100-year flood," said a spokesperson from the National Weather Service's San Antonio office.
Experts say that climate change is increasing the frequency and severity of such weather events across Texas. This has prompted renewed calls for summer camps and other recreational facilities to update their risk assessments and invest in advanced warning systems.
Calls for Greater Transparency and Review
In the aftermath, the Texas Department of State Health Services has announced a review of Camp Mystic's disaster protocols, alongside inspections at other camps in the area. Camp Mystic’s leadership has pledged to cooperate fully and emphasized that the safety of campers remains their highest priority.
As families begin to regroup and repairs get underway, questions remain about whether existing standards are sufficient in an era of unpredictable weather. Many parents and local leaders are urging camps statewide to revisit their emergency plans before the next storm strikes.
