On July 4, 2025, a catastrophic flash flood at Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, killed 25 campers, two teenage counselors, and the camp’s co-owner and executive director, Richard “Dick” Eastland. The disaster occurred during a torrential thunderstorm that sent the Guadalupe River over 37 feet in just an hour, sweeping away cabins in low-lying areas. One victim, 8-year-old Cile Steward, remains unaccounted for.

Circumstances and Investigation

A state investigation found Camp Mystic lacked a written emergency plan, failed to evacuate in a timely manner despite warnings, and delayed moving campers from flood-prone cabins. Only three adult staff members actively evacuated, moving one cabin at a time. The report concluded the camp did not adequately prepare for the storm, evacuate campers, or coordinate reunification efforts, leaving families in a chaotic and traumatic situation.

Legal and Financial Fallout

Following the disaster, families of the victims sued Camp Mystic and several Eastland family members for negligence and wrongful death, seeking millions in damages. In June 2026, Camp Mystic and related businesses filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to address the $10–50 million in debt against $1–10 million in assets. The bankruptcy filing paused most lawsuits under an automatic stay, but the camp is now seeking to extend protection to individual Eastland family members from personal liability.

State Response and Safety Reforms

The tragedy prompted three Texas laws in September 2025:

• Youth CAMPER Act – requiring detailed emergency plans, staff training, and warning systems.
• Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act – banning cabins in dangerous flood zones.
• Senate Bill 3 – broader flood safety measures, including $240 million for disaster relief and warning sirens.

Current Status

Camp Mystic has halted plans to reopen the Guadalupe River site for 2026, citing safety concerns and family opposition, though it is considering partial operations at Cypress Lake. A memorial to the victims, referred to as “Heaven’s 27”, has been established.

In summary: The Camp Mystic flood deaths were the result of severe weather, inadequate emergency preparedness, and delayed evacuation. The legal battle over liability is ongoing in bankruptcy court, and the case has led to significant state-level safety reforms for camps in Texas.