Overview
- Families of nine victims filed a federal lawsuit accusing six Texas Department of State Health Services officials of permitting Camp Mystic to operate with inadequate emergency plans and violating constitutional rights.
- Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick asked the health department not to renew Camp Mystic’s 2026 license until legislative investigations conclude and any corrective actions are identified, noting the camp is accepting applications.
- State Rep. Wesley Virdell said the camp meets licensing requirements, pointed to newly installed flood warning systems, and urged officials to disregard Patrick’s request.
- Camp Mystic stated the Cypress Lake property is separate from the Guadalupe River site, asserted compliance with new state camp safety laws, invited officials to tour the camp, and said its current license expires in early March.
- Investigations have highlighted cabins sited in FEMA-designated extreme flood hazard areas and a 26‑foot river surge in 45 minutes, findings cited by plaintiffs to argue long‑standing oversight failures.