Texas Wants Drastic Fee Increase For Camps After Tragedy

November 27, 2025 – Texas regulators have proposed dramatic hikes to summer camp licensing fees — increases that could reach as much as 4,000% — sparking concern among camp operators that many longtime youth and overnight camps might be forced to shut down.

Under current law, the initial license fee for a residential youth camp — like an overnight summer camp — is $750, with annual renewals ranging from $103 to $464 depending on the camp’s size.

Under the new proposal filed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), that initial fee would soar to as high as $21,000 for very large camps, while renewal fees for some camps could rise to as much as $19,500 per year.

Day-camp fees would also climb steeply: from $250 to as high as $3,200, based on camper volume.

State officials argue that the increase is needed to help fund expanded oversight, inspections, and enhanced safety regulations passed in response to the tragic July 4 floods at Camp Mystic and other camps.

But critics — including many small, nonprofit camps — warn that the cost jump is untenable. Some say they may not survive the added financial burden.

Camp directors told DSHS they support increased safety, but pleaded for more reasonable fee structures. “This causes an undue burden for smaller or more remote camps,” one operator wrote.

Others said that the new broadband-connectivity and evacuation-plan requirements, in addition to skyrocketing fees, could force them out of business.

The proposals also include a restructuring of the state’s Youth Camp Advisory Committee — reducing representation from camp operators and adding seats reserved for child-safety experts, parents, and mental-health professionals.

The public comment period on the rules is open through mid-December. As Texas camps weigh their future, many worry that some of the state’s oldest summer traditions may vanish.