Texas Camp Mystic Plans Reopening Amid Controversy Following July Flood Tragedy

Tue Dec 23 2025 16:54:18 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

In the wake of July's catastrophic floods that claimed the lives of 25 campers and two counselors, Camp Mystic prepares for a contentious reopening. Families reflect on grief and healing as safety measures are promised for the new season.

Camp Mystic, the Texas retreat that suffered devastating floods in July, plans to reopen for camper sign-ups in January, stirring mixed emotions among families affected by the tragedy. The floods resulted in 25 camper deaths, with ongoing investigations into the camp's safety measures. Some parents view the reopening as a step toward healing, while others express outrage over the decision. Promises of improved safety protocols are in place, including raised cabins and enhanced communication systems. As families grapple with the loss, the reopening brings both hope and heartbreak.

Patrick Hotze’s daughters returned home safely from Camp Mystic after the catastrophic floods in July that tragically claimed 25 campers and two counselors' lives. While Hotze shares in the sorrow of families affected, he plans to send his daughters back to camp. ‘My heart is broken for them,’ he said, acknowledging the varying needs of each family.

In an effort to move forward, the 100-year-old girls' retreat aims to begin enrolling campers in January and welcomes girls back to higher grounds by May. This decision follows a tragic incident where the swift floodwaters of the Guadalupe River swept away two cabins, leading to heightened scrutiny and debates among parents and lawmakers regarding the camp's reopening.

Safety Improvements and Legislative Inquiry

While Camp Mystic prepares to welcome campers again, local lawmakers are set to hold investigations into the disaster that claimed at least 117 lives in Kerr County, with some families expressing doubts about safety improvements. The camp owners have pledged to add measures such as two-way radios in each cabin and river monitoring systems to prevent future tragedies.

Many parents view sending their daughters back as vital for healing after the disaster, despite the emotional pain. Liberty Lindley, whose daughter Evie was trapped during the floods, recalled her daughter yearning to return to camp despite her traumatic experience.

Conversely, other families remain apprehensive. Attorney John Ball, whose daughter was among the campers, voiced concerns stemming from inadequate communication about his child’s safety amid the crisis, electing to wait and observe the camp's safety measures before making a decision.

Continued Grief Amid Hope

The sentiments surrounding Camp Mystic's reopening highlight the juxtaposition of hope and heartbreak. As families navigate their grief, the camp's future hangs in the balance amidst fierce debates over responsibility and safety. While some parents feel a deep connection to the camp's role in their daughters' development, others stand firm against the reopening without accountability from the camp's administration.