Camp Leader Dies a Hero During Texas Floods: Remembering Richard Eastland’s Final Act of Courage

 

As powerful flash floods tore through Central and West Texas over the July 4th weekend, countless lives were turned upside down. Homes were lost, communities devastated, and families shattered. Among the victims was a man whose final moments reflected a life of service, leadership, and unwavering devotion to the children in his care.

Richard “Dick” Eastland, co-owner and director of the beloved all-girls Christian retreat Camp Mystic in Kerr County, lost his life while attempting to rescue young campers from the rapidly rising floodwaters. He was 74 years old.

A Leader Until the End

When the Guadalupe River surged past safe levels, overwhelming the campgrounds with terrifying speed, Richard sprang into action. According to The Washington Post, he had been trying to evacuate some of the youngest campers from the Bubble Inn cabin when disaster struck. Authorities later found him and three girls inside a black SUV, having been overtaken by the flood. Tragically, Richard passed away en route to the hospital.

To many, Richard Eastland was more than just a camp director. He was a father figure, mentor, and guiding force for generations of young girls who spent their summers at Camp Mystic. His passing, widely mourned across social media, was confirmed by his nephew and memorialized in a tribute from journalist Kaitlyn Ross. “He died doing exactly what he had done all his life—putting others before himself,” she wrote.

Legacy of Faith and Family

Founded in 1939, Camp Mystic has been a cornerstone of summer tradition for many Texas families. Richard and his wife, Tweety Eastland, took over leadership in 1974, making them the third generation of Eastlands to run the private Christian camp. Together, they cultivated an environment rooted in faith, friendship, and character-building. Their children and grandchildren were also involved in camp life, carrying forward the family mission to uplift and empower young girls.

Tweety Eastland, who was also on the property during the floods, was later found safe at their home, according to local reports.

A Community Reeling

The floods that devastated Camp Mystic were part of a much larger weather disaster that impacted 15 Texas counties. Governor Greg Abbott issued an official disaster declaration on July 4, enabling state agencies to bypass certain regulations in order to provide emergency relief.

As of July 7, more than 100 people had lost their lives in the flooding, including 28 children. Kerr County alone reported at least 68 confirmed deaths, the highest toll among all affected counties. At one point, 27 campers from Camp Mystic remained missing. Search and rescue efforts have continued around the clock, with the Texas Air National Guard deploying drones and ground teams working tirelessly to locate any remaining victims.

Sheriff Larry Leitha of Kerr County noted that the number of missing remained uncertain due to the timing of the flood. “It was a holiday weekend,” he explained. “The camp was full, and we’re still trying to confirm who was present when the river rose.”

The State’s Response

In response to the disaster, the Texas Division of Emergency Management raised the State Emergency Operations Center to Level II. More than 1,000 personnel have been deployed, including over 800 vehicles and pieces of equipment. Federal assistance has also been approved to support local efforts.

Lt. Governor Dan Patrick visited the area and described the chaos that unfolded as floodwaters consumed camps, homes, and roads. He emphasized the bravery shown by many, including Richard Eastland, who gave his life trying to save others.

“This is a time when we, as a state, need faith and unity more than ever,” Governor Abbott said while visiting Kerrville. He pledged unlimited state support to affected communities and praised first responders for their ongoing dedication.

Warning Signs Ignored?

In a troubling twist, CNN reported that Kerr County had previously considered installing a flood warning siren system, but the project was never carried out. The absence of such a system has raised serious questions about how many lives might have been spared had advanced warning been available.

Flooding began after severe storms swept across the region on July 2, triggering flash floods that overwhelmed rivers, roads, and infrastructure with little warning. For many, the deluge came without time to prepare.

A Life Remembered

Though the disaster has left countless families grieving, Richard Eastland’s name has become a beacon of courage amid the chaos. His selfless attempt to shield the most vulnerable from danger reflects the spirit of leadership he brought to Camp Mystic for over five decades.

His legacy will live on not just through the campers who knew him, but also through the values he instilled: compassion, responsibility, and unwavering service to others.

As communities begin the long road to recovery, Richard’s story offers a reminder that even in moments of fear and devastation, humanity and heroism endure. He died doing what he believed in—protecting children—and that sacrifice will not be forgotten.