Camp Mystic has withdrawn its application to operate this summer, stepping back after emotional legislative hearings in Texas that revisited the deadly July 2025 flood disaster that claimed 28 lives.
The decision came days after a joint committee of the Texas Legislature concluded two days of testimony examining the tragedy. Lawmakers, parents of victims, and camp representatives addressed whether the camp should reopen for the 2026 season. The hearings centered on accountability, safety concerns, and whether enough corrective action had been taken since the disaster.
In a public statement, Camp Mystic indicated that continuing with the licensing process would be inappropriate while families are still grieving and investigations remain ongoing. The camp emphasized that withdrawing its application was meant to acknowledge the concerns raised by victims’ families, state officials, and the broader public, and to avoid causing further distress.
The move effectively halts operations for summer 2026. The Texas Department of State Health Services had been reviewing the camp’s application and had previously identified nearly two dozen deficiencies tied to its Cypress Lake campus. Those findings became a focal point during the hearings, with some parents arguing they reflected unresolved safety issues that may have contributed to the scale of the tragedy.
Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers continue to lead a criminal investigation launched earlier this month. The probe is examining potential failures and decision-making leading up to the flooding.
State leadership had already expressed hesitation about allowing the camp to reopen. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick had pushed to delay any licensing decision until all investigations were complete, citing concerns about whether proper due diligence had been conducted. Following the withdrawal, he publicly supported the camp’s decision, framing it as a step toward ensuring camper safety statewide.
Greg Abbott also acknowledged the announcement, reiterating that the camp will remain closed this year and confirming that investigative findings will be released once available. He emphasized the state’s continued focus on supporting affected families and uncovering the full scope of what occurred.
Despite the closure, Camp Mystic noted that more than 800 campers had expressed interest in returning this summer, particularly to areas of the property that were not impacted by the flood. Still, leadership stated that maintaining relationships with families does not depend on operating this season and that their priority remains healing and cooperation with authorities.
Members of the Eastland family, who own the camp, also addressed lawmakers during the hearings. They shared that they are undergoing counseling as they process both personal loss and the broader tragedy. The family lost Dick Eastland, who died while attempting to rescue campers during the flood. His son, Edward Eastland, and daughter-in-law described their approach to recovery as focusing on steady, responsible steps forward.
Local officials weighed in as well. Wes Virdell, who represents the area where the camp is located, expressed sympathy for all affected families and voiced support for giving those involved time to grieve and recover.
