Investigators Blame Camp Mystic for Deadly 2025 Flood

A joint Texas Legislature investigative committee has issued a 115-page report detailing critical failures at Camp Mystic during the July 4, 2025, flood that claimed 28 lives. The investigation concluded that Camp Mystic did not possess written emergency plans compliant with state requirements, instead directing campers to shelter in place.

Investigators found that evacuation procedures for cabins were not reviewed with staff or campers, leaving them unprepared for the rising waters. Despite National Weather Service alerts on July 3 and a flash flood warning early on July 4, 2025, most senior leaders were asleep and unaware of the severe weather threat.

The report noted that while some adult staff evacuated, they were not assigned to assist campers. Investigators determined there was sufficient time for all campers to reach higher ground if an evacuation had been initiated promptly. The report also criticized chaotic re-unification efforts and the delivery of conflicting information to parents.

Officials stated that a plan existing only in an owner's mind did not meet state regulations, leaving staff and campers without adequate instruction during the emergency. The camp's spokesman pointed to unforeseeable floodwaters and alleged state failures in funding early warning systems.