AUSTIN, Texas (AP) – Camp Mystic announced it would not reopen this summer following devastating flooding that resulted in the tragic deaths of 25 girls and two teenage counselors. This decision comes after intense scrutiny from grieving families and ongoing investigations into the camp's safety practices and operational procedures.
The camp, located on the Guadalupe River in Texas, initially intended to welcome nearly 900 campers on May 30. However, after receiving backlash and insights from court hearings revealing severe safety shortcomings, the camp owners chose to withdraw their application for a license renewal for 2026. Camp Mystic's statement emphasized that it would not move forward with any administrative processes while families mourn and investigations are underway.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick praised the camp's decision, agreeing that it was essential to prioritize the safety of future campers as investigations continue. Texas Governor Greg Abbott added that the findings from the investigations conducted by the Department of State Health Services and Texas Rangers would be made public soon.
Public hearings revealed significant failures in the camp’s response to the flood, including inadequate emergency planning, poorly trained staff, and missed opportunities for timely evacuations. Testimonies from family members expressed outrage and heartbreak as they recounted the moments leading up to the disaster, with one victim's family saying they were grateful that no child would be under the Eastlands' care this summer. They also noted that the camp's withdrawal was not a gracious choice but rather a response to impending denial from the state.
The Eastland family, which operates Camp Mystic, faced substantial public pressure as investigations unfolded. During a recent testimony, Edward Eastland offered a tearful apology to the victims' families, acknowledging their efforts were insufficient to save the girls. His words resonated deeply within a community still mourning the loss of their loved ones.
Despite the camp’s attempts to demonstrate readiness to reopen, regulatory authorities identified numerous deficiencies in its emergency operations plan. These included issues related to flood warning systems and safety training for campers. The camp initially claimed to have improved safety protocols but faced criticism from within the Mystic alumni community over the decision to reopen.
In total, the tragic floods have claimed at least 136 lives along the river, raising pressing questions about safety and emergency preparedness in similar facilities. Investigations into complaints against Camp Mystic's management and potential neglect are ongoing, as families remain adamant about seeking accountability for the disaster.
The impact of the flooding and the camp’s safety oversight will likely extend beyond the summer, as community members and families continue to demand clarity and justice. Remarks from grieving parents illustrate the profound emotional toll, with one father stating, "We never imagined a world without our daughters, and no decision made now can change that." As the river continues to flow, so too does the push for answers and reform within the camp system in Texas.
