HOUSTON – Camp Mystic says it has notified the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that it is withdrawing its application for a Summer 2026 camp license, arguing that “no administrative process or summer season should move forward” while families grieve and investigations continue following “last July’s tragedy.”
In a statement, the camp said DSHS testimony this week acknowledged the agency’s legal obligations, but the camp is choosing to withdraw “rather than risk defending our rights under Texas law in a manner that may unintentionally effect [sic] further harm.”
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The camp noted that 28 people died, calling them “twenty-eight precious lives,” and said no decision can undo the loss felt by families, survivors, first responders, and the Kerr County community.
The camp also said more than 800 girls want to return to Camp Mystic Cypress Lake this summer and emphasized that its bond with families “does not change or end with the announcement.”
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Camp Mystic said the decision is intended to remove any doubt that it has heard concerns from grieving families, Texas House and Senate investigating committees, and Texans statewide, adding that “respect for those voices requires that we step back now.”
The camp said it will continue to cooperate with all ongoing investigations, comply with lawful requirements, and support recovery and healing efforts.
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Following news of the withdrawal, Gov. Greg Abbott released the following statement:
“Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones and those recovering from last year’s devastating Fourth of July floods. Camp Mystic has withdrawn its application to the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) seeking to open as a camp this year. As a result, the camp will remain closed for 2026. The DSHS continues working with the Texas Rangers to investigate Camp Mystic. The results of that investigation will be made public as soon as possible.”
Gov. Greg Abbott