Camp Mystic will not reopen in 2026

In a sudden reversal, Camp Mystic announced Thursday it will no longer attempt to reopen any portion of its camp this summer and has withdrawn its application for a 2026 summer license, as scrutiny intensifies following last year’s deadly Fourth of July floods.  The decision comes after weeks of pressure from state leaders and emotional testimony from families who lost loved ones in the tragedy, which claimed the lives of 27 campers and counselors – often referred to by families as “Heaven’s 27.”

Camp officials had previously planned to reopen a portion of the camp at its Cypress Lake location, which sits on higher ground and was not directly impacted by the flooding along the Guadalupe River.  More than 800 campers had already registered for summer sessions at that site.

In a statement, Camp Mystic said it is stepping back while investigations continue.

“Today is not about camp operations.  It is about respect for the families, accountability to the public and reverence for the memories of the lives lost,” the statement read.

The camp added that the decision is intended to “remove any doubt” that it has heard concerns from grieving families, lawmakers and the public.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who had previously called on the state to block the camp’s license, praised the decision Thursday, calling it “the correct decision to protect Texas campers and to allow time for all investigations to be completed.”

Gov. Greg Abbott also weighed in, saying the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) is continuing its investigation alongside the Texas Rangers and that findings will be made public once complete.  For now, Camp Mystic says it will continue cooperating with investigators and focus on supporting recovery and healing efforts in the community.