Camp Mystic: A Private Christian Summer Camp with a Rich History

Along the Guadalupe River and just miles south of the unincorporated community of Hunt, population 1,300, sits Camp Mystic. The private Christian summer camp has hosted generations of Texas girls for almost a century. The camp was thrust into a national spotlight after a “catastrophic” deadly flood inundated its grounds Friday. As of Tuesday afternoon, five girls and one counselor were still missing as search and rescue efforts continue.

The number of confirmed deaths in the Hill Country flooding continued rising Sunday, with Kerr County officials announcing 59 dead, including 38 adults and 21 children. The devastating flood has left many questioning the safety of the camp and the measures that were in place to prevent such a tragedy.

Century-long History of Family Ownership

Camp Mystic, which is set to celebrate its centennial next year, was founded in 1926 by E.J. “Doc” Stewart, who coached football and basketball at the University of Texas, according to the camp’s website. Agnes Stacy and her husband purchased the camp in 1939. It has been operated by generations of the same family since then, except for two years beginning in 1943, when the federal government leased the camp as a rehabilitation center for World War II veterans.

The current owners and directors Dick Eastland, Agnes’ grandson, and his wife, Tweety Eastland, have been involved with the camp since 1974. Many other family members have also taken positions at the camp, according to its website. This long history of family ownership has contributed to the camp’s unique character and tradition.

A man walks by a building at the Camp Mystic, Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Hunt. A flash flood swept through the area early Friday morning.

Two Sites, Facilities

Camp Mystic consists of two separate facilities, one on the Guadalupe River and the other at Cypress Lake. Each facility has its own cabins, dining hall, range, stable and chapel, according to the camp’s website. This year, the two camps had scheduled a total of six sessions of between two and four weeks, three at each facility. The more than 700 campers who evacuated on Friday started at the camp in late June.

Camp has Christian Mission

Camp Mystic aims to “provide young girls with a wholesome Christian atmosphere in which they can develop outstanding personal qualities and self-esteem.” The camp’s mission is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where girls can grow and develop their skills and character.

People walk by a building at the Camp Mystic, Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Hunt. A flash flood swept through the area early Friday morning.

Programs and Activities

Campers can attend once they have completed second grade. The camp draws attendees from Texas and beyond. Programming includes archery, cooking, cheerleading, fishing and a variety of sports. These activities are designed to promote teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, while also providing a fun and engaging experience for the campers.

A Noteworthy Alumni List

Camp Mystic’s prestige and long history also made its alumni roll replete with family members of Texas’ political luminaries, such as former President Lyndon B. Johnson, Secretary of State James Baker and several Texas governors, according to reporting by Texas Monthly. Former first lady Laura Bush worked as a camp counselor at Camp Mystic while she attended Southern Methodist University.

Conclusion

Camp Mystic is a private Christian summer camp with a rich history and a strong commitment to providing a wholesome and supportive environment for young girls. The camp’s century-long history of family ownership, its Christian mission, and its wide range of programs and activities have made it a beloved and respected institution in Texas and beyond. Despite the recent tragedy, the camp remains a vital part of the community, and its legacy will continue to inspire and shape the lives of future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Camp Mystic?

A: Camp Mystic is a private Christian summer camp located in Hunt, Texas, that has been hosting generations of Texas girls for almost a century.

Q: What is the camp’s mission?

A: The camp’s mission is to provide young girls with a wholesome Christian atmosphere in which they can develop outstanding personal qualities and self-esteem.

Q: What activities are offered at the camp?

A: The camp offers a wide range of activities, including archery, cooking, cheerleading, fishing, and a variety of sports, designed to promote teamwork, leadership, and personal growth.

Q: Who are some notable alumni of the camp?

A: The camp’s alumni roll includes family members of Texas’ political luminaries, such as former President Lyndon B. Johnson, Secretary of