Catastrophic Flooding Strikes Camp Mystic in Texas Hill Country, Leaving Many Missing

Camp Mystic, a historic Christian summer camp for girls located in the Texas Hill Country, faced a tragic disaster early Friday when catastrophic flooding hit the Guadalupe River. The camp was hosting 750 children at the time, and reports indicate that at least 20 children remain missing.

History of Camp Mystic

Founded in 1926, Camp Mystic has been a cornerstone of summer experiences for girls, offering a setting to grow spiritually and build personal qualities and self-esteem. Its two sites situated along the Guadalupe River in Hunt, Texas, emphasize creating lifelong friendships and fostering a wholesome Christian atmosphere.

The camp has long encouraged campers to challenge themselves to “be a better person for being at Mystic” and “let Mystic bring out the best in them,” according to its website. Activities at the camp include water-based recreation, horseback riding, tennis, and other outdoor pursuits, making it a popular summer destination for nearly a century.

Impact of Flash Floods

The flash flooding began around 4:00 a.m. on Friday, triggered by heavy overnight rainfall that caused the Guadalupe River to swell rapidly. The resulting floodwaters swept through Kerr County and surrounding areas with such speed that local officials were unable to issue timely evacuation orders.

Dalton Rice, city manager for Kerrville, explained the intensity of the flooding: “This happened very quickly, over a very short period of time, that could not be predicted, even with the radar. This happened within less than a two-hour span.” Bodies of victims were reported to have been found in vehicles that had been carried away by floodwaters upstream.

Response and Updates from Camp Mystic

Camp Mystic sent an email to parents reassuring them of their children’s safety, stating that if they had not been contacted directly by camp officials, their child has been accounted for. However, local Facebook groups have reported that dozens of families received calls from safety officials regarding their missing daughters.

Current Ownership and Legacy

Dick and Tweety Eastland, the current owners of Camp Mystic, have been associated with the camp since 1974. The camp has stayed within the same family for multiple generations, tracing its ownership back to the 1930s. A promotional video on the camp’s website showcases its sprawling campus by the river, highlighting scenes of campers enjoying activities such as rowing, swimming, horseback riding, and playing tennis.

Flooding Status and Safety Measures

The Guadalupe River had crested in Kerrville and Comfort by Friday evening, but downstream areas such as Spring Branch are anticipated to reach peak flood levels by early Saturday. The National Weather Service has projected the crest at 37.2 feet, which is considered a moderate flood stage.

Urgent Need for Coordination

With rescue teams and emergency personnel actively working in the affected areas, the focus remains on locating the missing individuals and ensuring the safety of all residents. The incident underscores the unpredictable nature of flash floods and the importance of preparedness in flood-prone areas.