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Texas Summer Camp Devastated by Flash Flood: Camp Mystic's Harrowing Experience

2025-07-08
Texas Summer Camp Devastated by Flash Flood: Camp Mystic's Harrowing Experience
The Wall Street Journal

Texas Summer Camp Devastated by Flash Flood: Camp Mystic's Harrowing Experience

Hunt, Texas – What began as a typical Monday afternoon, June 30th, quickly turned into a nightmare for Dick and Tweety Eastland, longtime caretakers of Camp Mystic. As they warmly welcomed a new group of young girls to their beloved summer camp, an unexpected and ferocious flash flood swept through the area, transforming the idyllic setting into a disaster zone.

Camp Mystic, nestled in the scenic Hunt, Texas, has been a cherished tradition for generations of young girls seeking outdoor adventure and lasting friendships. The Eastlands, with decades of experience, have dedicated their lives to creating a safe and memorable experience for these campers. However, this year's summer promised to be unlike any other.

The flash flood, triggered by torrential rainfall, arrived with alarming speed. The normally tranquil creek that bordered the camp swelled into a raging torrent, inundating the campgrounds within minutes. Campers and staff scrambled for safety as water levels rose rapidly, carrying debris and posing a serious threat to everyone present.

“It was terrifying,” recounted Sarah Miller, a camp counselor who witnessed the event firsthand. “One minute we were showing the girls to their cabins, and the next, the water was rising so fast. We just had to get everyone to higher ground as quickly as possible.”

The Eastlands, demonstrating remarkable composure and leadership, immediately implemented emergency protocols. They guided campers and staff to the camp’s highest point, ensuring everyone’s safety while coordinating with local emergency responders. The swift action of the camp staff undoubtedly prevented a far greater tragedy.

The aftermath of the flood revealed widespread devastation. Cabins were destroyed, equipment was lost, and the landscape was dramatically altered. The emotional toll on the campers and staff was significant, as they grappled with the shock and loss of their familiar surroundings.

Local communities rallied to support Camp Mystic. Volunteers poured in to assist with the cleanup efforts, and donations of supplies and financial assistance began to arrive. The outpouring of generosity underscored the importance of Camp Mystic to the region and the resilience of the human spirit.

While the physical damage is extensive, the spirit of Camp Mystic remains unbroken. The Eastlands are determined to rebuild and reopen the camp, ensuring that future generations of young girls can experience the magic and camaraderie that Camp Mystic has always represented. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness in the face of unpredictable events.

The investigation into the flood’s causes is ongoing, with authorities examining weather patterns and drainage systems to determine if preventative measures could have been taken. In the meantime, the focus remains on supporting the victims and rebuilding Camp Mystic, stronger than ever before.

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