Camp Mystic Announces It Will Not Open for Summer 2026 Season Following Flooding Tragedy

Camp Mystic, the all-girls Christian camp near Kerrville, Texas, has announced it will not open for the summer 2026 season. The decision comes in the wake of a tragic flood last summer that resulted in the deaths of 27 girls. Following legislative hearings in Texas regarding the camp’s response to the disaster, Camp Mystic’s leaders stated they would no longer seek a license from the Texas Department of State Health Services to operate the camp this summer.

The camp’s leaders cited “thoughtful prayer and careful reflection” as the basis for their decision. They acknowledged the outpouring of support, including over 800 campers who had signed up to return, and pledged to provide refunds to affected families. The letter also emphasized the ongoing grief within the community and the need for a pause in operations until investigations are complete and families have had time to heal.

Camp Mystic had previously received a notice from the Texas DSHS indicating it was failing to meet 22 licensure standards. Legal representatives of some of the families who lost children in the flood expressed support for the camp’s decision, stating it was a responsible move given the unresolved questions and the need for accountability.

In February, nine families who lost their children in the floods filed a lawsuit against state officials who oversaw the licensing of Camp Mystic. The families alleged that the “stay put” instructions provided by the camp did not meet Texas law’s requirements for an evacuation plan. They also claimed that state officials contributed to the risk by failing to enforce compliance with safety regulations.

Last fall, several families filed a separate state lawsuit against the camp, its owners, and related entities. The lawsuit accused them of negligence, gross negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and liability for inviting the victims onto the camp property. These legal actions highlight the ongoing concerns about safety and accountability in the operation of Christian camps serving minors.

The situation at Camp Mystic raises important questions about governance, safety protocols, and the responsibility of organizations that serve children. As the community continues to process the tragedy, the decision to suspend operations reflects a commitment to honoring the victims and ensuring that no further harm occurs. The path forward will require transparency, accountability, and a focus on the well-being of all children involved.

Source: Read the original report