Camp Mystic cleared inspection just days before deadly flood

Overview of the Tragedy at Camp Mystic

In Kerr County, Texas, the tragic flood that struck Camp Mystic on July 4 has sparked intense calls for accountability. The flash flood caused the Guadalupe River to rise over 30 feet, leading to devastating consequences. By Tuesday, officials reported that at least 27 individuals from the camp had lost their lives, with five girls and one counselor still missing. This event has ignited a national debate about safety protocols and emergency preparedness at youth camps.

Safety Compliance at Camp Mystic

Despite the tragedy, state inspection reports reveal that Camp Mystic had a history of compliance with safety regulations. According to the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), youth camps are required to maintain emergency plans. These plans must include procedures for disaster response, emergency shelter, and evacuation of occupied buildings. DSHS conducts annual inspections to ensure these elements are in place, as outlined in the Texas Administrative Code.

The latest inspection reports from 2023 to 2025 show no major deficiencies. The most recent inspection occurred on July 2, just two days before the flood, and listed 386 campers and 64 staff members. Inspectors checked various aspects, including the presence of a qualified director, proper supervisor-to-camper ratios, and written personnel policies. All criteria were met, and the camp's license was valid through March 6 of the following year.

Emergency Preparedness Measures

The inspection reports also highlighted the camp's commitment to emergency preparedness. Staff included at least one certified lifeguard and additional personnel for every 35 campers during waterfront activities. The camp had a written swim test policy and ensured each child's swimming ability was assessed. Lifesaving equipment suitable for waterfront activities was available and maintained in good condition.

Medical staffing was also adequate, with a physician, registered nurse, or someone with an American Red Cross Emergency Response certificate either on-site or on-call. The camp maintained an appropriate ratio of adult supervisors, with one for every 10 campers or fewer.

Communication Challenges During the Flood

While the National Weather Service issued flash flood warnings, local government and law enforcement social media posts urged people to "move to higher ground immediately." However, the young campers likely did not see these alerts, as cell phones, smart watches, iPads, and other Wi-Fi-capable devices were considered "unacceptable electronic devices" to bring. Counselors, however, had access to cell phones, and the inspection reports noted that the camp had a telephone readily available for emergency use.

State Regulations and Emergency Protocols

According to the Texas Administrative Code, camps should have emergency phones available in the first aid area for emergency use. However, there is no mention of emergency radios in case of weather impacts on phone services. Campers must be instructed on their actions during a disaster or need to evacuate, and staff and volunteers must be trained on related procedures.

Heroic Efforts and Ongoing Investigations

Families who reunited with their children have praised the heroic efforts of the counselors at Camp Mystic. Louisiana Governor has specifically commended Emma Foltz, a rising Louisiana Tech senior, for her role in evacuating 14 campers to safety.

As of last year, DSHS issued 376 youth camp licenses. The agency tracks compliance and disciplinary actions against youth camps, noting three disciplinary actions since 2023. However, details beyond failure to preclude camp staff with criminal convictions or deferred adjudication and improper pool maintenance were not provided.

The state has established a Youth Camp Advisory Committee with several camping professionals. KXAN investigators have asked the state and committee members about possible changes to emergency plans after the floods, but as of this report, no responses have been received.