Historic Flooding Hits Beloved Hill Country Camps
Heavy rainfall across Central Texas over the July 4th holiday has caused extensive flooding throughout the Texas Hill Country, submerging roads, creeks, and historic summer camps that have operated for more than a century. A series of slow-moving storms brought widespread rainfall totals of 8 to 12 inches in less than 24 hours, overwhelming the region's rivers and low-water crossings.
Iconic Camps Inundated by Flash Floods
The Texas Hill Country, famed for its rugged landscape and longstanding tradition of summer camps, has seen many of its cherished campsites affected by rising waters. Several camps near Kerrville, Hunt, and Wimberley reported significant flooding. Photos circulating on social media show cherished wooden cabins partially submerged, canoes floating untethered, and athletic fields transformed into temporary lakes.
- Camp Mystic and Camp Waldemar, both founded in the early 1900s along the Guadalupe River, saw their riverfront cabins and docks underwater.
- Mo-Ranch, a popular retreat and summer camp on the North Fork, evacuated campers as the river rose more than 10 feet above flood stage.
- Many camp operators have suspended sessions, prioritizing the safety of children and staff.
Impacts on Local Communities and Infrastructure
The National Weather Service issued multiple flash flood warnings as swollen creeks and rivers inundated rural roads and bridges. Emergency crews conducted over 50 water rescues since Thursday afternoon. Power outages and road closures remain widespread from Bandera to Marble Falls, as standing water and debris complicate recovery efforts.
Looking Ahead: Cleanup and Recovery
Local officials urge caution as floodwaters recede, warning residents and visitors to avoid flooded roadways and respect ongoing closures. The Texas Department of Transportation continues to assess damage to critical infrastructure. Many summer camps plan to start cleanup operations as soon as conditions allow, hoping to resume sessions later in July.
Photo Gallery: Flooded Texas Hill Country Camps
- Guadalupe River cabins at Camp Mystic under several feet of water
- Flooded athletic fields at Camp La Junta
- Submerged kayaks and canoes along the Blanco River in Wimberley
- Evacuation efforts by first responders at Mo-Ranch
For the latest updates and photo coverage, visit the Texas Hill Country emergency management website and follow local news channels for information on road conditions, camp reopening dates, and ongoing relief efforts.
