A desperate hunt is on for survivors following a devastating flood at a Texas all-girls Christian summer camp, which has served the daughters of the state’s political elite for nearly a century.
Camp Mystic, nestled by the Guadalupe River in a quaint town, has been a cherished retreat for some of the most prominent young women in Texas and has historical ties to national politics. A piece about its history appeared in Texas Monthly in 2011.
Several prominent figures, including the daughters of former Texas politicians like Dan Moody, Price Daniel, and John Connally—all of whom attended the camp before their untimely deaths alongside President Kennedy in 1963—have made Camp Mystic their summer sanctuary.
The descendants of Lyndon B. Johnson, a notable Texas politician and JFK’s successor, also spent their summers at this camp, as highlighted by Texas Monthly.
James Baker, who was a chief of staff for both Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush, also sent his family to Camp Mystic.
Moreover, future First Lady Laura Bush volunteered as a counselor at Camp Mystic during her time at Southern Methodist University, well before marrying George W. Bush, who assumed the governorship of Texas like his father did.
Over the years, campers have gone on to have impressive careers—some with ties to Neiman Marcus, others performing with the Royal Ballet in London, or becoming successful business owners.
“It doesn’t really matter to me which college my daughter chooses, but I do care where she goes to camp,” remarked Camp Mystic alumna Katherine Jones.
Next year marks the camp’s 100th anniversary. Established in 1926 by EJ “Doc” Stewart, a former head football coach at the University of Texas, the camp’s mission has always been to foster a healthy Christian environment that builds self-esteem and personal qualities in young girls.
Interestingly, Camp Mystic also served as a recovery camp for Army Air Corps veterans during World War II from 1943 to 1945, illustrating its long-standing presence in the community.
