Camp Mystic Withdraws License Application, Won't Reopen After Flood Tragedy

A heart-painted rock rests on the side of Texas 39, across the Guadalupe River from Camp Mystic in Hunt, Texas, on Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2025.

Sam Owens/San Antonio Express-News

Camp Mystic announced Thursday it has withdrawn its application for a summer 2026 camp license with the Texas Department of State Health Services and will not reopen in summer 2026.

The news comes after weeks of hearings and tearful testimony from the loved ones of last summer’s flood victims, including 27 campers and counselors as well as camp owner Richard “Dick” Eastland.

“No administrative process or summer season should move forward while families continue to grieve, while investigations continue and while so many Texans still carry the pain of last July’s tragedy,” the camp wrote in a statement. “We commend DSHS for their testimony this week that recognized their legal obligations. But rather than risk defending our rights under Texas law in a manner that may unintentionally affect further harm, we choose rather to withdraw our application for the 2026 camp season.”

Camp Mystic said it would continue to “fully cooperate with all ongoing investigations” and support recovery and healing efforts.

“This decision is intended to remove any doubt that Camp Mystic has heard the concerns expressed by grieving families, members of the Texas House and Senate investigating committees and citizens across our state,” the camp wrote. “Respect for those voices requires that we step back now.”

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.