11 Girls, 1 Counselor Remain Missing at Texas Christian Summer Camp as Flood Rescuers Search Debris
KERR COUNTY, TX — A Christian summer camp in the Texas Hill Country has become the site of a heart-wrenching search and rescue mission after flash flooding devastated Camp Mystic, a well-known girls’ retreat located on the banks of the Guadalupe River. As of Sunday morning, 11 young girls and one female counselor remain unaccounted for following an unexpected surge in river waters that tore through the area late last week.
The flooding, triggered by torrential rains that caused the Guadalupe River to rise well beyond its banks, overwhelmed parts of Kerr County and surrounding regions, leading to widespread evacuations. The floodwaters have claimed at least 59 lives across the state, with that number feared to climb as authorities continue to sort through debris fields and submerged structures.
Camp Mystic, a 100-year-old Christian camp revered for its commitment to faith-based mentorship, was housing over 130 girls when the river rose rapidly on Thursday night. Witnesses reported a sudden wall of water roaring into the camp’s lower cabins, some of which were swept off their foundations. Emergency responders and volunteers have since recovered dozens of girls, many found clinging to trees or rooftops. But the fate of 11 campers and one counselor remains unknown.
“This is every parent’s nightmare,” said Kerr County Sheriff Larry Leathers in a press conference Saturday evening. “These young girls were there to grow in their faith, form friendships, and enjoy the outdoors. What happened was tragic, and we’re doing everything in our power to bring them home.”
Multiple agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety, local sheriff’s offices, and the National Guard, are coordinating the massive rescue effort. Search dogs, drones, and dive teams have been deployed as floodwaters begin to recede. A temporary command post has been established near Hunt, Texas, to manage the operation.
The camp’s leadership released a statement requesting prayers and expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support from families and churches nationwide. “Camp Mystic is devastated,” the statement read. “We are trusting in God’s sovereignty and holding onto hope as we await news of our precious campers and beloved staff member.”
Texas Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of emergency in Kerr and five surrounding counties, authorizing additional state resources to assist with flood response. “This is not just a natural disaster—it’s a test of our faith and our unity,” Abbott stated during a visit to the flood zone. “Texans come together in times of crisis, and we will not rest until every missing person is found.”
Local churches and faith-based organizations have mobilized quickly, offering shelter, food, and counseling to families affected by the flood. Volunteers have described the tragedy as both “humbling and heartbreaking.” Despite intense weather challenges, including intermittent rain and unstable terrain, searchers remain steadfast in their efforts.
Some parents of missing children have traveled from across the state, refusing to leave the camp area. Tearful prayer circles have formed under canopies and church tents, with many clutching Bibles and singing hymns late into the night.
While the nation watches, much of the mainstream media has focused on infrastructure issues and climate discussions. But many conservative voices have emphasized a different perspective—calling for a return to spiritual grounding in the midst of chaos. “This isn’t about environmental blame games,” one local pastor told Finish the Race News. “This is about broken hearts, hurting families, and our reliance on the Lord during unthinkable trials.”
Local residents, many of whom have attended Camp Mystic or sent their children there, have offered critical historical context. “The river always ran high in spring, but this was something else,” said Mary Elkins, a lifelong Kerr County resident. “I’ve never seen anything like it, and I’ve lived here 70 years.”
The Guadalupe River, which normally flows gently past the scenic hills of Kerrville, rose over 20 feet in just a matter of hours. Weather reports suggest that localized rainfall exceeded eight inches in under 24 hours. Authorities are investigating whether flood warnings were properly issued and if the camp had enough time to evacuate low-lying cabins.
While emergency management teams remain focused on rescue, conversations have begun about the future of faith-based camps in flood-prone areas. However, many Christian families and camp supporters have expressed that now is not the time for political debate.
“Our hearts are heavy, but our hope is in Christ,” said John Freeman, whose two daughters were safely recovered Friday morning. “These camps build leaders, not victims. And we’re not going to let a tragedy define a century-old ministry.”
As floodwaters recede and more of the terrain becomes accessible, authorities anticipate recovering additional remains or finding signs of survivors. Rescue workers are urging patience and prayers as they continue the search. “Every minute matters,” said Sheriff Leathers. “But so does every prayer.”
With the nation’s eyes on the quiet hills of central Texas, the focus remains on bringing answers and comfort to grieving families—anchored in faith, supported by community, and bolstered by a determined search effort that refuses to give up hope.
