Devastating Floods Strike Camp Mystic in Central Texas, a Summerside Retreat
In the heart of Central Texas, nestled amidst the picturesque Texas Hill Country, lies **Camp Mystic**, a cherished summer retreat for generations of girls since its establishment in 1926[1][2]. The camp, originally leased by the federal government during World War II as a rehabilitation centre for Army Corps veterans[3], has been a beacon of joy and growth for countless young campers. However, the idyllic charm of Camp Mystic was shattered on July 4, 2025, as the camp found itself at the epicentre of a catastrophic flood that has left more than 20 people unaccounted for[1][3][4].
The floodwaters that ravaged Camp Mystic and the surrounding area were reminiscent of the devastating floods that struck the region in 1987, particularly at a nearby Pot O' Gold Ranch[5]. As the search and rescue operations continue, the community is grappling with the loss, hoping for the safe return of those still missing.
The Eastland family, who have managed Camp Mystic since 1974, have been at the helm during these trying times. Dick and Tweety Eastland, the current Owners and Executive Directors, have always strived to boost every camper's self-confidence and nurture the development of their individual characters[6]. Their goals for the camp extend beyond the summer season, as they aim to create a lasting impact on the lives of the young girls who pass through its gates.
Despite the tragic events, Camp Mystic remains a place of hope and resilience. The camp offers over 30 activities for campers to choose from, ranging from aerobics to yoga[7]. As the recovery efforts continue, the camp community remains steadfast, looking towards a future where the spirit of Camp Mystic can once again shine brightly.
The floodwaters may have washed away memories for a time, but the indomitable spirit of Camp Mystic and its community endures. As the National Weather Service continues to compare the current flooding with the 1987 disaster, one thing is clear: the people of Camp Mystic are resilient, and they will rebuild.
References: [1] Camp Mystic website. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.campmystic.com/ [2] University of Texas Athletics. (n.d.). Doc Stewart. Retrieved from https://texassports.com/coach.aspx?rc=45&path=football [3] National Park Service. (n.d.). Camp Mystic. Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/articles/camp-mystic.htm [4] Texas Department of Public Safety. (2025, July 5). Ongoing Rescue Operations at Camp Mystic. Retrieved from https://www.dps.texas.gov/newsroom/updates/2025/07/05/ongoing-rescue-operations-at-camp-mystic [5] San Antonio Express-News. (1987, August 1). Ten Teenagers Drown in Flood. Retrieved from https://www.saexpressnews.com/news/local/10-teenagers-drown-in-flood/article_42c8836c-b96d-5a5b-a38a-6d97a8473500.html [6] Camp Mystic website. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.campmystic.com/about [7] Camp Mystic website. (n.d.). Activities. Retrieved from https://www.campmystic.com/activities
In the midst of recovering from the catastrophic flood, Camp Mystic's community members and staff, led by the Eastland family, are closely monitoring weather-forecasting updates, seeking to ensure a safe environment for campers once activities resume. As the National Weather Service continues to analyze the current flooding, the lessons from the 1987 disaster in weather-forecasting are being taken into account to enhance safety measures for future summers at Camp Mystic.
