One of the Texas summer camps affected by the July 4th flooding has announced some changes

Camp La Junta, all boys camps, sent this out today...hopefully Camp Mystic does the same and can come back.

Flood Monitoring Systems

Camp La Junta will have independent river monitors that automatically trigger alarms if water levels rise. Sirens and flashing lights across camp and will activate instantly during high-water events, eliminating human delays.

In addition, the Upper Guadalupe River Authority (UGRA) is installing a real-time river monitoring system to track water flow and height. Camp La Junta will have a dedicated dashboard to receive any alerts and warnings directly from the system.

These systems will give our staff the time and tools needed to respond quickly and effectively.


Camper Cabins and Buildings

All Camp La Junta camper cabins were located within or beyond the 500-year floodplain, with none located within the 100-year floodplain. As we rebuild, we’re taking the opportunity to place our cabins even further from the river for added safety. We are now rebuilding ten cabins: Riverside, 1, 2, 34, 5, 6, 13, 14, 15, and Hilton. Each new cabin is being designed with safety, comfort, and durability in mind, while maintaining the traditional Camp La Junta look and feel.

All new camper occupied spaces will have a finish floor elevation above the 500-year floodplain elevation according to the Flood Insurance Study prepared by FEMA in 2020. This commitment ensures long-term safety and peace of mind for campers, families, and staff.

Highlights include:

· Cabin Hilton rebuilt larger and improved, now overlooking the athletic fields.

· New cabin complexes for T1 and C2 campers with upgraded facilities and shared spaces.

· Additional complex for younger campers to improve supervision and create room to grow.

· No camper will sleep on a slab that ever got wet from flood waters.

· Existing camper cabins within the 500-year floodplain will be repurposed for other camp uses.

· Dining Hall and Kitchen will be rebuilt in their original location, for day-use only.


Communication Systems

We’re upgrading camp communications to ensure reliable coordination every day and in any emergency. New systems include an enhanced camp-wide PA, intercoms in every cabin, additional walkie-talkies at all activity areas, and fiber-optic internet with satellite backup. All equipment is installed above the 500-year floodplain and connected to backup power, giving our staff a modern, dependable system that keeps everyone connected, informed, and ready to respond at all times.


Safety Coordination and Training

We’ve hired a person who will serve as dedicated full-time Safety Coordinator to oversee all emergency systems, drills, and response protocols, including training both campers and staff on emergency plans, and will additionally focus on camper happiness and well-being.

This person will:

· Monitor daily operations for safety compliance

· Manage training programs for counselors and staff

· Serve as a liaison with local emergency management and first responders

· Ensure all systems are tested and operational before each camp session


Legislative Safety Standards

Recent legislation, House Bill and Senate Bill 1 known as the Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act, outlines new, strengthened safety requirements for Texas youth camps. We’re proud to share that Camp La Junta supports these bills and the safety measures they set forth and will meet 100% of these standards before Summer 2026 begins.

These measures reinforce what’s always been central to us: the safety and well-being of every camper. These standards will further enhance our ability to provide a safe, fun, and meaningful summer experience for all our boys.