Story perspectives

July 4 Flood Kills 27 at Mystic Camp, License Under Review

4/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

A July 4 flood on Guadalupe River at Camp Mystic in Austin killed 27 campers and counselors and is under legislative review.
Committee investigator Casey Garrett said the camp fostered an obedience-encouraged culture, gave counselors no emergency drills, and issued a one-paragraph directive to stay in cabins.
Camp Mystic plans to reopen in late May using unflooded sections, a move that angered victims’ families and prompted calls to delay its license.

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Story summary

A July 4 flood on Guadalupe River at Camp Mystic in Austin killed 27 campers and counselors and is under legislative review.
Committee investigator Casey Garrett said the camp fostered an obedience-encouraged culture, gave counselors no emergency drills, and issued a one-paragraph directive to stay in cabins.
Camp Mystic plans to reopen in late May using unflooded sections, a move that angered victims’ families and prompted calls to delay its license.