Texas Health Dept Gives Camp Mystic 45 Days to Fix Safety Gaps After Deadly 2025 Flood

Texas health officials require Camp Mystic to resolve identified safety deficiencies within 45 days, threatening its operating license following a 2025 flood that resulted in 27 deaths.

A July 2025 flood at Camp Mystic in Texas resulted in 27 fatalities, including 25 girls, two counselors, and the camp owner. Pounding rainfall caused disastrous flooding along the Guadalupe River, adjacent to the camp site. This tragic event prompted a state review of camp safety protocols.

The Texas Department of State Health Services identified critical safety deficiencies at Camp Mystic, citing an insufficient emergency warning system, the absence of a floodplain map indicating cabin locations, and a flawed fire evacuation plan. State officials mandate these issues be rectified within 45 days for the camp to regain its operating license.

Records indicate the camp's medical officer had not officially reported the 27 deaths to the state health agency, a requirement within 24 hours under Texas administrative code. Camp Mystic states its priority is camper safety and intends to continue its nearly century-long mission of providing a Christian camping experience for girls. The camp plans to open a site separate from the one affected by the 2025 flood.

This regulatory action underscores the critical importance of robust emergency preparedness and adherence to state health and safety standards for all youth camps. Texas administrative code requires specific protocols, including timely reporting of critical incidents. For parents, verifying a camp's current safety certifications, including its emergency warning systems, floodplain maps, and fire evacuation plans, becomes a practical consideration. Camp Mystic’s ability to implement the required changes within the 45-day timeframe directly impacts its planned May 30 reopening. The coming weeks will reveal if Camp Mystic meets the state's updated safety standards and secures its operating license for the upcoming summer season.