The devastating Camp Mystic flooding in Kerr County, Texas, has sent shockwaves across the nation, as emergency crews work tirelessly to locate missing campers and restore safety to the area. As of July 5, 2025, the aftermath of catastrophic flash floods along the Guadalupe River has left at least 23 girls from the renowned all-girls Christian summer camp unaccounted for, with families and officials anxiously awaiting updates amid ongoing rescue operations.
Catastrophic Flooding Hits Camp Mystic
On the night of July 3, 2025, relentless storms dumped over a foot of rain across west-central Texas, causing the Guadalupe River to surge more than 20 feet in just two hours. By early morning, the river at Hunt, where Camp Mystic is located, had reached a record-breaking 30 feet—well above its major flood stage. The camp, hosting approximately 750 girls aged 7 to 17, was suddenly engulfed by floodwaters, forcing an urgent evacuation and triggering a large-scale emergency response.
Camp Mystic officials described the situation as a “catastrophic level” of flooding. The camp lost power, water, and internet access, and the main highway leading to the site was washed away, severely hampering rescue efforts and communication with the outside world.
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Search and Rescue Efforts Intensify
Authorities swiftly mobilized an extensive search and rescue operation, deploying between 400 and 500 personnel, including state troopers, game wardens, and specialized teams. At least 14 helicopters have been scanning the area, and the Texas National Guard has conducted over 160 evacuations by air. Some children have been rescued from treetops and other stranded locations, while others remain missing as crews continue to comb the flood-ravaged landscape.
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, acting as governor while Gov. Greg Abbott is on vacation, addressed the nation and the worried parents directly:
“We will do everything humanly possible, 24/7—looking at every tree, turning over every rock, whatever it takes. If your child is one of those truly missing and not just out of touch, we will do everything we can to find your daughter.”
The Kerr County Sheriff’s Office, Red Cross, and other agencies are working around the clock on reunification and rescue, urging families to call the Red Cross hotline if they are seeking information about loved ones.
Key Points Summary
- Flooding began overnight July 3-4, 2025, after over a foot of rain fell in the region.
- Guadalupe River surged to 30 feet, causing catastrophic flooding at Camp Mystic.
- At least 23 girls from Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for as of July 5.
- The camp lost power, water, and internet; the main access road was washed away.
- Emergency crews, including helicopters and specialized teams, are conducting search and rescue.
- Families of missing campers have been personally notified; those not contacted have confirmed safe children.
- The death toll from the flooding in the Texas Hill Country has risen to at least 24, including children.
- State and federal resources, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and FEMA, are assisting.
- Nearby camps, such as Camp Waldemar and Camp La Junta, have confirmed all campers safe.
Family and Community Response
The uncertainty has left families in anguish, many of whom have turned to social media to share photos and heartfelt pleas for information. The emotional toll is evident, with parents anxiously awaiting word from authorities and hoping for the safe return of their daughters. Camp Mystic has reassured parents that if they have not been contacted directly, their child is accounted for and safe.
Community support has surged, with neighbors, churches, and local organizations providing aid and shelter. The Red Cross is actively assisting with reunification and relief efforts. Meanwhile, authorities have urged the public to avoid the flood zone, as onlookers and traffic congestion have hindered rescue operations.
Impact on the Region and Ongoing Risks
The Camp Mystic flooding is part of a broader disaster affecting the Texas Hill Country, with at least 25 confirmed fatalities and widespread destruction. Gov. Abbott has declared a disaster in 15 counties, and residents near rivers and creeks have been urged to move to higher ground and shelter in place.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor the region, warning of ongoing flood risks as rivers remain swollen. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is also monitoring the safety of the Canyon Lake Dam, though it remains secure as of the latest reports.
What Happens Next for Camp Mystic?
Camp Mystic, which was set to celebrate its 100th anniversary next year, now faces an uncertain future as it copes with the aftermath of this unprecedented tragedy. The camp community, known for its resilience and spirit, is rallying together, but the focus remains on the immediate search and rescue efforts.
Officials have promised transparent and frequent updates as the situation develops. The nation watches and waits, united in hope for the safe return of the missing campers and the recovery of the affected communities.
Stay tuned for the latest updates on the Camp Mystic flooding as authorities continue their search and rescue mission. If you have loved ones at the camp and have not been contacted by officials, your child is safe. For those seeking information or wishing to support relief efforts, contact the Red Cross or local authorities.