Camp Mystic, a beloved youth camp in Texas, faced serious scrutiny following a tragic flood that claimed 27 lives. The New York Times uncovered that many cabins at the camp were situated within designated flood zones, including some areas classified as “extremely hazardous” by local authorities. Despite these risks, six years ago, when the camp embarked on a $5 million expansion project, it opted to build new cabins in flood-prone areas instead of relocating existing structures to safer ground.
For decades, the camp has provided summer activities like canoeing and fishing on the Guadalupe River, but it has also faced repeated flooding incidents. Federal flood data indicate that some of the camp’s cabins were located dangerously close to the river, implicating them in potential flood risk despite past safety measures. Kerr County, where Camp Mystic is located, implemented strict regulations against construction in floodways due to their propensity for dangerous water flow during floods, yet exceptions were made during the camp’s expansion.
Researchers emphasize the critical nature of relocating campsites for children away from flood-prone areas, pointing to the horrifying events on July 4, when the Guadalupe River overflowed, flooding cabins and resulting in a heartbreaking loss of young lives.
Calls for improved flood management strategies are now louder than ever, with experts highlighting the need for better warning systems and proactive measures for camps located along waterways. Camp Mystic officials have not directly addressed concerns about their construction practices or displayed preparedness for floods, but they expressed grief for the families affected.
This tragedy has reignited discussions about the balance between enjoying natural settings and ensuring safety for campers, potentially leading to improved practices and regulations that could prevent similar incidents in the future. The collective response aims to honor the lives lost while fostering a culture of enhanced safety for future generations of campers.