MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Tennessee family is breathing a sigh of relief after their 14-year-old daughter was rescued from a Texas summer camp that was devastated by sudden flash flooding over the Fourth of July holiday.
According to NBC affiliate WMC in Memphis, Mary Steele Gant, a Memphis native, had been attending Camp Mystic, a popular summer camp in the Texas Hill Country, when torrential rains triggered dangerous flooding on July 4, 2025. The normally tranquil Guadalupe River swelled rapidly, sending powerful floodwaters through the campgrounds.
Camp ‘Ripped Apart’ by Raging Waters
Mary’s father, Mathew Gant, described the terrifying situation, saying Camp Mystic was “ripped apart” as the water surged through cabins, activity centers, and recreation areas.
“Everything happened so fast,” Gant recalled. “The river rose in a matter of hours, cutting off roads and trapping campers in dangerous conditions.”
Mary, who has been attending Camp Mystic since 2019, was among several campers who took shelter in an elevated cabin on higher ground. Rescue crews, battling dangerous currents and unpredictable weather, were able to locate her and airlift her to safety by helicopter on Saturday.
Gratitude for Heroes and Heartbreak for Others
The Gant family expressed deep gratitude toward the Eastland family, owners of Camp Mystic, for their leadership and quick response during the emergency.
“We will be forever thankful to the Eastlands for ensuring the safety of the girls,” Gant said. “Our hearts are also with those families who didn’t receive the good news we did.”
Gant also praised first responders, including Texas emergency crews, search-and-rescue teams, and helicopter pilots, who worked tirelessly in hazardous conditions.
Flood’s Aftermath and Ongoing Recovery
The family is now in San Antonio, Texas, awaiting permission to reenter the camp to recover any belongings that may have survived the floodwaters. The scene at Camp Mystic is one of destruction—cabins damaged, camp equipment washed away, and the once-lively grounds covered in mud and debris.
Flash flooding is a known risk in Texas Hill Country during summer storms, but the July 4 event was particularly severe. Meteorologists reported that several inches of rain fell in just a few hours, overwhelming creeks and rivers.
A Reminder of Nature’s Power
While the Gants are grateful for Mary’s safe return, they remain mindful of the lives lost or disrupted in the disaster.
“Until we can return, we’re keeping everyone in our prayers—families still searching for loved ones, and the brave first responders still out there in the field,” Gant said.
Authorities urge residents and travelers to remain cautious during severe weather events, especially in flood-prone areas.
