Camp Mystic, a beloved summer camp for girls tucked away in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, experienced an unimaginable tragedy. Right now, we know that at least 27 campers and counselors died after the flooding on July 4. Every summer, many Houstonians flocked to this camp alongside other Texas girls for a chance to escape into a quiet oasis, grow spiritually, and make lifelong friends.
The Start of Camp Mystic
Camp Mystic, a private Christian girls summer camp in Kerr County northwest of San Antonio, is almost 100 years old. It was founded in 1926 by former University of Texas head football coach Doc Stewart. In its early days, girls could participate in activities like roping, music, painting, and drama. Since then, it’s grown into an annual summer tradition for generations of Texans. Former President Lyndon B. Johnson’s daughters, granddaughters, and great-grandaughters went to the camp. Former first lady Laura Bush worked as a drama counselor there. Campers admired current directors Richard “Dick” and Tweety Eastland, who had overseen the camp since 1974. Dick Eastland taught fishing and a former camper remembers him snapping a photo and giving her a hug after catching a fish. He died while trying to save campers from the rising floodwaters.
Lifelong Friendships from Camp
For many Texas families, going to summer camp has long been a rite of passage. And friendships forged at Camp Mystic have lasted years. One former camper asked her friend to be a bridesmaid in her wedding. Mothers keep the tradition alive for their daughters — with some moms, daughters, and grandmothers all attending over the years. About 750 girls were at camp this summer. Campers stay in cabins with names that make you smile like Gigglebox and Chatterbox. They swim, kayak, do arts and crafts, dance, and ride horses. Some would work on writing and editing the weekly camp newspaper Mystic Murmurs. The girls are encouraged to be off their phones and social media. The camp’s goal is simple: for campers to become better people, let Mystic bring out the best in them, and grow in their faith. We know Camp Mystic is now mourning , but many former campers have come out to share the magic and the memories made at this treasured camp ♥️
Here’s more about the Houston campers who tragically lost their lives at Camp Mystic over the weekend. 💟
Did you attend Camp Mystic or another summer camp in Texas? Has this tragedy brought back memories for you? Send me your thoughts here.
