Camp Mystic Unaccredited, Eight Others in Kerr County Are

The Importance of Camp Accreditation and Safety Measures

When choosing a summer camp for their children, many parents look for specific indicators that ensure the safety and well-being of their kids. One such indicator is the “American Camp Association (ACA) Accredited” label. Parents often consider this accreditation essential when deciding where to send their children for the summer. A parent who spoke with KXAN investigators emphasized that ACA accreditation is a must-have for them, citing the thorough checks around safety measures as a key factor in their decision.

The American Camp Association is a nationwide voluntary accreditation program for day and overnight camps. According to ACA, there are 76 accredited camps across Texas, including eight in Kerr County. However, Camp Mystic, an all-girls Christian summer camp, is not among them. This camp faced a tragic incident when more than two dozen campers and counselors were lost due to deadly flooding on the Guadalupe River during the Independence Day holiday.

What the ACA Stands For

Henry DeHart, interim president and CEO of the ACA, explained that the association’s mission is to support camp operators by advancing practices related to health, safety, risk management, and program quality. The ACA’s hallmark program is its accreditation initiative, which sets national standards for health and safety in camps.

DeHart highlighted the importance of emergency planning and communication strategies. He noted that ACA-accredited camps are required to have detailed emergency plans that address potential risks specific to their location. These plans must include staff training and regular rehearsals before campers arrive. Additionally, camps are encouraged to develop backup communication plans in case cell services are unavailable during a crisis.

Camp Mystic and State Inspections

Camp Mystic, although licensed by the state, is a member of the Camping Association for Mutual Progress (C.A.M.P.). C.A.M.P. aims to raise health and safety standards for all camps. KXAN investigators reached out to C.A.M.P. leaders but have yet to receive details about the camp’s safety measures.

State inspection reports obtained by KXAN show that Camp Mystic had just completed its annual inspection two days before the deadly flash flood. The Department of State Health Services found that the camp had the required emergency plans, including written ones for disasters. The state agency stated that youth camps must post these plans clearly in every building and review them during yearly inspections.

Revisiting Emergency Procedures

The ACA encourages camps to use this time to review their emergency procedures and make any necessary adjustments. DeHart advised parents who feel anxious to ask about evacuation plans and how the camp will maintain communication with local emergency service teams, especially if cell service is disrupted.

Supporting Parents and Communities

DeHart acknowledged that parents have valid concerns following the tragedy. He noted that camps across the country are proactively reaching out to parents to explain the planning and procedures they have in place. He urged parents to contact their camps directly to learn more about emergency plans and communication strategies during a disaster.

DeHart shared his own experience working at camps in North Carolina, where hurricanes were a concern. He recalled an instance when a hurricane forced an evacuation, and all necessary measures were in place, including buses, supervision, and food for the campers. He encouraged parents to ask similar questions and expressed confidence that camps would be eager to share their details.

Collaboration and Support

A team from the ACA has already met with Texas Senator John Cornyn to discuss ways to support Texas camps during this challenging time. DeHart also mentioned the positive response from other camps, which have offered to take in campers from affected areas. He shared stories of camps providing open spaces and working with parents to ensure that impacted campers still have a meaningful camp experience.

As the conversation around camp safety continues, the role of accreditation, emergency planning, and community support remains crucial in ensuring the well-being of children during the summer months.