Texas Health Officials Require Safety Upgrades Before Camp Mystic Can Reopen

Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, will not be permitted to reopen for the summer season until it addresses several safety deficiencies identified by the Texas Department of State Health Services. The girls camp, where 27 people died during floods last year, must update its emergency and parent notification plans to achieve full compliance, state officials said.

The health department detailed the required changes in a letter responding to Camp Mystic's application for a new operating license. The camp, which had planned to open at its Cypress Lake location, has 45 days to correct the issues and resubmit its plans. Among the deficiencies cited were the absence of a floodplain map showing cabin locations, inadequate emergency preparedness coordination, and insufficient fire evacuation and disaster response plans. The agency also noted the need for a more robust emergency warning system and clearer staff responsibilities during emergencies, as well as improved coordination with local authorities and parent notification procedures.

Camp Mystic stated it is reviewing the notice and working with state officials to address the concerns. The camp emphasized its commitment to camper safety and its mission to provide a Christian camping experience for girls.

The July 4, 2024, floods in Kerr County resulted in the deaths of 25 girls, two counselors, and the camp's owner. More than 130 people in the region died in the disaster. Some families of victims have opposed the camp's reopening, and in February, nine families filed a lawsuit against the state, alleging a failure to enforce evacuation plan requirements.

The camp's reopening remains contingent on meeting the state's safety requirements and receiving approval from the health department.