TEXAS HILL COUNTRY — Texas has implemented new emergency rules and strengthened its oversight for licensed summer camps ahead of the 2026 summer season. Most summer camps in the Texas Hill Country have reopened, with approximately 15 camps in the Hunt and Kerrville area resuming operations.

Camp Mystic, which lost 28 campers and staff members during the July 4, 2025, flood, did not reopen for its 100th season. The camp withdrew its application to operate earlier in 2026 and has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Eight-year-old Cecilia "Cile" Steward remains officially listed as missing nearly one year after the flood.

Camp Mystic is currently facing dozens of wrongful death and negligence lawsuits. The July 2025 flooding in Central Texas claimed nearly 140 lives after torrential rainfall caused the Guadalupe River to surge to historic levels within hours. This event prompted statewide reviews of emergency warning systems, evacuation procedures, and safety regulations for youth camps in flood-prone areas.

The new state regulations require more comprehensive emergency preparedness plans and additional safety measures for severe weather events at camps. In response, camp operators in the region have implemented stronger evacuation procedures, enhanced communication systems, and revised flood response plans. Currently, two weather warnings and three weather advisories are in effect for five regions in the Texas Hill Country area.

Dozens of Texas counties are working on plans to install flood warning sirens. Additionally, new housing developments for flood survivors are being built in Kerr County, where infrastructure repairs also remain underway. Community organizations have distributed tens of millions of dollars in recovery assistance to families affected by the floods.