"Our hearts are broken alongside our families that are enduring this unimaginable tragedy. We are praying for them constantly." - Camp Mystic statement
In what has become one of the deadliest natural disasters in Texas this year, catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe River has claimed the lives of 27 campers and counselors at Camp Mystic, a beloved summer retreat for girls located in Hunt, Texas. The tragedy unfolded in the early morning hours of July 4, 2025, when torrential rains caused the river to rise more than 20 feet in less than an hour.
Key Facts
- 27 campers and counselors confirmed dead
- Guadalupe River rose 26 feet within 45 minutes
- Over 750 campers were at Camp Mystic when the flooding occurred
- Total death toll from Central Texas flooding has reached 90
- Camp director Dick Eastland among the deceased
The Night of the Disaster
The disaster struck during the early hours of Independence Day, when most campers were asleep. According to meteorological reports, the remnants of Tropical Storm Barry swept across the region, dropping more than 20 inches of rain in some areas starting on the night of July 3. The Guadalupe River, which runs alongside the camp, rose at an unprecedented rate, giving little time for evacuation.
Emergency responders reported that the river rose approximately 26 feet within just 45 minutes, reaching its second-highest level on record at nearly 30 feet. The flash flooding caught many by surprise, including camp staff who attempted to evacuate the girls to higher ground.
Heroic Efforts and Tragic Loss
Among those who lost their lives was Richard "Dick" Eastland, the longtime director of Camp Mystic. According to family members, Eastland left his home in the early morning darkness to assist with evacuations but never returned. His dedication to the safety of the campers ultimately cost him his life.
First responders and volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the weekend, conducting over 850 rescues across the affected areas. Despite these heroic efforts, the death toll continued to rise as search teams discovered more victims.
Broader Impact
The flooding has affected multiple counties in Central Texas, with Kerr County being the hardest hit. Officials report at least 87 deaths in Kerr County alone, with the total death toll across the region reaching 90. The disaster has prompted Governor Greg Abbott to declare a state of emergency and deploy extensive resources for search and rescue operations.
Communities across Texas have rallied to support the affected families, with vigils being held in Austin, Dallas, and other cities. Relief organizations have established funds to assist with recovery efforts, and counseling services are being provided for survivors and families of the victims.
Moving Forward
As the community begins the difficult process of healing, questions are being raised about flood preparedness and early warning systems. The National Weather Service and local officials are reviewing the events leading up to the disaster to determine if more could have been done to alert residents and campers to the impending danger.
Camp Mystic, which has a 99-year history and has served as a summer retreat for generations of Texas girls, now faces an uncertain future. The camp has requested "continued prayers, respect, and privacy for each of our families affected" as they navigate this tragic chapter in their long history.