Camp Mystic, site of deadly 2025 floods, will not reopen this summer

Camp Mystic, the summertime retreat for young girls where dozens died last summer in a flooding event investigators determined could have been avoided, will not reopen this summer.

The 700-acre private Christian summer camp for girls located on the banks of the Guadalupe River in central Texas was hit by a massive flood over the July Fourth weekend in 2025. In total, 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic died when deadly flash floods ripped through the area. The camp's owner and director, Richard "Dick" Eastland, also died in the flood, reportedly while trying to save campers.

Camp Mystic’s directors have withdrawn an application to reopen for the summer of 2026, Texas authorities confirmed to USA TODAY on April 30. The decision comes after Texas lawmakers investigating how the deadly incident occurred determined on April 29 that "this tragedy could have been prevented."

"No administrative process or summer season should move forward while families continue to grieve, while investigations continue and while so many Texans still carry the pain of last July’s tragedy," the camp said in a statement. "Twenty-eight precious lives were lost. We recognize that no statement and no decision can undo that loss or ease the burden carried each day by parents, siblings, loved ones, survivors, first responders and our beautiful Kerr County community."

According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the camp withdrew its application to reopen on April 30. Lara M. Anton, a department spokesperson, said the camp had submitted the application on March 30.

The department is still investigating "complaints about Camp Mystic’s operations last summer," said Anton, adding the complaints are confidential.

Will Camp Mystic close for good?

The camp at the center of the 2025 central Texas floods that killed over 120 people said it will remain closed while investigations into the deadly incident last summer are ongoing.

But camp leaders indicated they do not intend to close for good.

"We also recognize that over 800 girls want to return to Camp Mystic Cypress Lake this summer," the camp said in a statement. "Our special bond with our Camp Mystic families does not change or end with the announcement.  We love each of you."

Camp leaders said they will "fully cooperate with all ongoing investigations, comply with every lawful requirement and continue supporting recovery and healing efforts."