Donations will fund urgent search and recovery efforts, assist affected families, support funeral services, and offer mental health care. Funds may be directed to local community foundations, emergency relief nonprofits, and scholarship funds established in memory of those who perished.
Camp Mystic, a historic Christian girls’ summer camp on the Guadalupe River in Texas Hill Country, was devastated by catastrophic flash flooding. During the night, rising river waters surged 20–26 feet within an hour, inundating cabins and sweeping away campers and staff. At least 27 individuals—girls and counselors—lost their lives, with several more missing. The camp director died heroically attempting rescues. Survivors recount chaos, lack of communication, and delayed evacuation as floodwaters swept through sleeping quarters. Federal, state, and local agencies continue search operations while grieving families await closure.
Camp Mystic, located along the scenic Guadalupe River, came under siege in the early morning hours when torrential rainfall caused the river to surge dramatically. Around 1:14 a.m., campers and staff were alerted to potential flooding, but evacuation efforts did not begin until roughly 2:30 a.m. By then, flash floodwaters had already overwhelmed cabins in low-lying areas. Counselors, many under 21, scrambled to guide campers to higher ground. Tragically, cabins housing younger girls were engulfed before they could be evacuated.
River levels rose approximately 20–26 feet within 45 minutes, cutting power and communications. Witnesses describe the emotional panic when screams were heard and rescue helicopters didn’t arrive until over 12 hours later. Camp director Dick Eastland perished trying to save campers. Ultimately, 27 lives were lost, including children as young as eight and several counselors; others remain missing.
In the aftermath, search-and-rescue teams, including game wardens and first responders, recovered bodies and evacuated survivors to reunification centers. Families of victims—many from across Texas—have mobilized memorial funds and charities in honor of their children. Authorities are investigating evacuation protocols and infrastructure planning, especially in light of flood-zone designations that had previously been removed from camp maps. Local pastors, nonprofits, and community leaders are rallying support for trauma counseling, memorial scholarships, and rebuilding efforts.
