Full Breakdown
Camp Mystic Withdraws License Application After Deadly Flood
5/4/2026, 8:26:51 AM
License Withdrawal Ends 2026 Season
Camp Mystic announced Thursday it is withdrawing its 2026 operating-license application, cancelling the planned summer reopening. The camp said proceeding while families grieve and investigations continue would be inappropriate.
July 4, 2025 Flood Tragedy
Flash floods from the Guadalupe River on July 4, 2025 inundated Camp Mystic’s Cypress Lake site, killing 25 campers, two teenage counselors and director Dick Eastland—28 deaths total. The disaster was part of a Hill Country flood that claimed over 100 lives.
Main Actors
Dick Eastland (deceased director), surviving Eastland siblings Edward, Mary Liz, Britt, Richard, investigator Casey Garrett, parents CiCi and Will Steward, Texas DSHS, Texas Rangers, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Gov. Greg Abbott.
Chronology
July 4, 2025 – flood; April 27-28 – legislative hearings; May 2026 – planned reopening; May 30, 2026 – withdrawal.
Statistics
Deaths: 25 campers, 2 counselors, 1 director (28). Over 800 girls had registered for 2026. Garrett interviewed ~150 witnesses, including “Heaven’s 27” families. DSHS noted 22-27 safety deficiencies. Nine families filed suits.
Impact
The case spurred Texas to tighten camp safety laws, requiring flood-plain bans, cabin-level weather radios and mandatory emergency drills. It also illustrates how rigid hierarchy can impede emergency action. The tragedy also prompted the Texas Legislature to pass the Heaven’s 27 Safety Act, mandating flood-risk assessments for all youth camps.
Government and Camp Remarks
Camp Mystic said the withdrawal “removes any doubt we have heard families, legislators and the public” and shows respect for grieving voices. DSHS confirmed the withdrawal and said investigations with the Texas Rangers continue. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick called it “the correct decision.” Gov. Abbott pledged prompt release of investigation findings. The camp also pledged to cooperate fully with all lawful requirements.
Families and Lawmakers
Sen. Charles Perry said the girls’ fate was set before any rain fell. Parents CiCi and Will Steward said Dick Eastland’s “culture of obedience” prevented staff from rescuing children. Edward Eastland described families’ anger as “completely reasonable” and offered a public apology.
Unsettled Facts
Some sources list 27 victims, others 28. DSHS cited 22-27 safety deficiencies. Texas flood death totals are reported as “more than 100” and as “136,” showing incomplete data.
Direct Voices
- “No administrative process or summer season should move forward while families continue to grieve, while investigations continue and while so many Texans still carry the pain of last July’s tragedy.” — Camp Mystic statement
- “The fate of those girls was set before any first drop of rain ever fell.” — Sen. Charles Perry
- “Dick Eastland enforced a culture of obedience so powerful that their staff, including the directors of the camp and his children, were afraid to assist helpless children if it meant defying Dick’s orders.” — CiCi Steward
- “We tried our hardest that night and it wasn’t enough to save your daughters.” — Edward Eastland