Texas Investigates Camp Mystic Amid License Renewal Effort

April 7, 2026 – AUSTIN — Texas health officials are investigating hundreds of complaints against Camp Mystic as the longtime summer camp seeks to renew its license and reopen for the 2026 season.

The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) confirmed it has received a large volume of complaints since February related to the camp’s operations during the summer of 2025. The complaints allege potential violations of state regulations governing youth camps, prompting a broader inquiry that now includes assistance from the Texas Rangers.

The investigation comes as Camp Mystic, a private Christian girls’ camp in Kerr County, attempts to reopen part of its property this summer. The move follows a devastating July 4, 2025 flood that killed 27 people, including 25 campers and two counselors, when rapidly rising waters overwhelmed the camp along the Guadalupe River.

State leaders have urged caution. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has called on regulators to delay any license renewal until investigations—both criminal and legislative—are complete. Families of victims have also filed lawsuits alleging negligence, including claims the camp failed to adequately prepare for or respond to the flood.

Despite the controversy, more than 850 families have reportedly registered for the upcoming season, contingent on state approval. Camp operators have proposed reopening a separate, less-affected site while the original flood-damaged area remains closed under court orders to preserve evidence.

Camp Mystic, founded in 1926, has long been a prominent Texas summer destination for girls, but the tragedy and its aftermath have raised new questions about safety standards and oversight of youth camps statewide.

State officials say the outcome of the investigation will play a critical role in determining whether the camp can resume operations this summer.