Camp Mystic to Reopen After Tragic Floods

Camp Mystic, a longstanding private Christian summer camp for girls, will reopen next year after a devastating flash flood claimed the lives of 27 campers and a counselor on July 4th. The camp’s operators confirmed this decision as they prepare for their centenary celebration.

This announcement was made via email on Monday to families who had registered for the 2025 session. In the wake of the tragedy, some families have voiced concerns about safety measures and the camp’s preparations moving forward.

The leader mentioned that Camp Mystic Cypress Lake, a sister location, will reopen, while the original campus, severely damaged by the flood, is expected to remain closed for the time being. Officials have stressed that plans are being made with great care to honor those lost.

A memorial dedicated to the victims will also be designed and built to serve as a space for reflection and remembrance. This is in addition to ongoing efforts to update safety measures, in line with a newly passed state bill.

Reactions to the reopening have been mixed. Families of some victims have expressed strong opposition, citing feelings that the camp has not adequately addressed the tragedy. Cici Steward, whose 8-year-old daughter remains missing, articulated this sentiment, saying that the camp seems to be resuming operations more swiftly than expected.

In contrast, some alumni and members of the camp’s owning family have shown support for the reopening. However, other parents have indicated surprise at the lack of communication since the flood, only receiving an email announcing the camp’s plans to resume.

The floods that day led to the rapid rise of the Guadalupe River, causing significant casualties and raising concerns about local emergency preparations. It was reported that during this time, some local officials were either unavailable or asleep, and the camp’s head had been monitoring the weather, though it’s unclear if he received critical emergency alerts.

Founded in 1926, Camp Mystic has seen many summers, but this one left a mark that will take time to heal. As they prepare to reopen, the camp leadership aims to navigate the complex feelings surrounding the recent tragedy.