Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian camp in Texas, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy reorganization on Wednesday, nearly a year after catastrophic floods killed 25 girls and two teenage counselors. The filing was made with the US Bankruptcy Court in the Southern District of Texas in Houston, listing the camp's debt as exceeding $10 million.
Details of the Bankruptcy Filing
The camp’s bankruptcy petition comes after a devastating flash flood swept through the area in Hunt, Texas, on July 8, 2025. The flood claimed the lives of 25 campers and two teenage counselors, marking one of the deadliest weather-related tragedies at a summer camp in US history. According to court documents, Camp Mystic’s liabilities include unpaid claims from the families of victims, legal fees, and operational costs.
Impact of the Floods
The catastrophic floods occurred during a severe thunderstorm that dumped heavy rain on the Texas Hill Country within hours. The sudden deluge caused the Guadalupe River to rise rapidly, overwhelming the camp’s location. News reports indicated that many victims were swept away while sleeping in cabins. The tragedy prompted widespread grief and scrutiny of emergency preparedness at camps.
In the aftermath, Camp Mystic faced multiple lawsuits from families alleging negligence. The camp also struggled with a sharp decline in enrollment as parents feared for safety. The bankruptcy filing allows the camp to restructure its debts while continuing limited operations, according to legal experts.
Financial and Legal Ramifications
The camp’s debt of over $10 million includes secured and unsecured claims. According to the filing, the camp’s assets are significantly less than its liabilities, making reorganization necessary to avoid liquidation. The case will be overseen by a bankruptcy judge, who will approve a plan to pay creditors over time.
“This is a difficult step, but it allows us to address our financial obligations while preserving the camp’s legacy,” a camp spokesperson said in a statement. The spokesperson added that the camp remains committed to supporting affected families and improving safety measures.
