Lessons Unlearned: How the 1987 Flood Reshaped Camp Mystic and the Guadalupe River’s Impact on History

The Devastating Floods of Kerr County: A Cycle of Tragedy and Urgency

In Kerr County, the Guadalupe River has a history of sudden floods, bringing chaos and heartache. Lavonda Koons and her husband experienced this firsthand in 1987 when their bus, filled with young campers, got stuck in rising floodwaters. As they stepped out into the frigid water, the current pulled them apart. Lavonda desperately tried to save as many children as she could, but tragedy struck, and ten young lives were lost that day.

Fast forward to July 4, 2025, when another flood swept through the area. This time, at least 135 people died, including more young campers. Both floods felt like echoes of one another, raising alarms about the lack of preparedness in Kerr County.

Despite warnings over the decades about the river’s dangers, little was done to improve flood defenses. After 1987, gauges were installed to provide real-time updates on water levels. But without consistent funding and political support, safety measures stagnated. Attempts to secure siren systems and other alerts fell flat as local governments struggled for resources.

Survivors of the 1987 flood, such as Kathryn McCay-Sylvester, expressed frustration. “We didn’t learn anything,” she lamented, pointing to the loss of young lives as a wake-up call that was ignored.

Experts note examples like Houston, where the community responded to floods with significant investment in infrastructure and resilience. In Kerr County, however, those discussions often stalled over concerns about budget and taxes, leaving the community vulnerable yet again.

Tom Moser, a former county commissioner, recognizes this neglect. He recalls the backlash against flood warning systems during discussions—fears of sirens disturbing the peace trumped the urgent need for alerts.

When the recent flood struck, it became clear how dire the situation was. The river surged unpredictably, and many residents, particularly visitors unfamiliar with the area, were caught off guard. Conversations around installing sirens resurfaced post-disaster, with state leaders promising funding for safety measures.

Wayne O’Bryant, a local resident, stressed the necessity for a warning system, especially for tourists. His family cabin fell victim to the July flood, and he hopes proactive measures can prevent future tragedies without overburdening local taxpayers.

As Kerr County reflects on its recent disasters, the urgency for change is palpable. With pending discussions on flood warning systems and community support at the forefront, many hope to protect future generations from the river’s wrath.

Lavonda and Richard Koons, now stepping into retirement, still carry the weight of their past. They hope that their experiences will influence local leaders to prioritize safety before another tragedy strikes.

The cycle of flooding and tragedy in Kerr County is a stark reminder of the need for robust flood defenses. It’s time for the community to come together and make lasting changes.

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