The owners of a Texas all-girls summer camp, where 25 campers and two teenage counsellors lost their lives in catastrophic flooding on July 4, have announced a series of new safety upgrades. The measures will be implemented when a portion of the facility reopens next summer.
New Safety Legislation and Camp Response
In a letter addressed to parents on Tuesday, 2 December 2025, the Eastland family, who own Camp Mystic, stated their intention to exceed newly enacted camp safety laws. This legislation was passed by the Texas Legislature and signed by Governor Greg Abbott in the wake of the devastating floods, which claimed at least 136 lives statewide.
"We are preparing for next summer at Camp Mystic Cypress Lake and we know that safety is of the utmost concern to all of you, as it is for us," the family wrote. They extended thanks to the families of the victims, collectively known as "Heaven's 27," and to state leaders for the new laws, pledging not just compliance but to surpass the requirements.
Details of the Enhanced Safety Measures
The planned upgrades are a direct response to the tragedy. They include the installation of four flood warning river monitors designed for early detection of rising water. Furthermore, every cabin will be equipped with two-way radios enabled to receive national weather alerts. To ensure continuity during emergencies, the camp will deploy high-capacity generators to maintain power in critical areas such as the main office and dining hall.
The Eastland family acknowledged the complex emotions surrounding the camp's future. "We recognize that returning to Camp Mystic carries both hope and heartache," their letter stated. "For many of your daughters, this return is not simple, but it is a courageous step in their healing journey."
Controversy and Legal Action
The decision to reopen part of the camp has been met with significant criticism from some of the bereaved families. In September, the Eastlands revealed plans to build a memorial and to reopen Camp Mystic Cypress Lake, a separate property not adjacent to the Guadalupe River, which was undamaged in the floods.
This move provoked a strong reaction. CiCi and Will Steward, whose eight-year-old daughter Cile died and whose body remains missing, wrote to camp officials calling the plan "unthinkable" so soon after the tragedy. Several families have filed lawsuits against Camp Mystic and the Eastlands in state court, alleging the operators failed to take necessary steps to protect campers as the life-threatening floodwaters approached.
Looking ahead, Camp Mystic has scheduled six separate 10-day sessions for 2026, running from 30 May to 9 August. The camp also plans to offer tours in April for enrolled campers, counsellors, and their parents.
