Riverfront Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Following the recent flooding in the Texas Hill Country, we want to share important information about CAMP’s riverfront safety, emergency preparedness, and the steps we have taken to ensure the continued safety and well-being of every camper, volunteer, and staff member in our care.
This page serves as a resource for families and outlines recent improvements, along with how we continue to meet all state safety and licensing requirements.
Select each “+” icon below to view important updates and information from the CAMP team.
Our Location & Natural Protection
All of CAMP’s permanent structures are located on higher ground, approximately 80 feet above the typical river level, placing our main facilities outside of flood-prone areas.
In the event of rising water levels or roadway flooding, our standard procedure is to safely shelter-in-place on higher ground until conditions allow for safe access.
Main Camp to River Proximity Map
Riverfront Safety Improvements & State Compliance
The safety of all our participants is our highest priority. Following the July 4th flood, CAMP worked closely with local and state agencies and has fully complied with all updated state requirements related to licensed camp operations and riverfront safety.
Over the months following the flood, CAMP:
- Completed assessments and implemented enhanced safety measures
- Strengthened emergency response protocols in alignment with state guidance
- Coordinated with local emergency management and first responders
- Ensured all facilities and program areas meet or exceed required safety standards
As a result of these efforts, we safely resumed river activities during Spring Break Camp 2026.
Comprehensive Emergency Planning
CAMP maintains a detailed Emergency Response Plan that is regularly updated and shared with local emergency management.
Our plan includes protocols for:
- Severe weather and natural disasters (including flooding, tornadoes, and wildfires)
- Medical emergencies and injuries
- Aquatic emergencies
- Lost camper procedures
- Fire and evacuation
- Unauthorized individuals on property
- Transportation-related emergencies
We also maintain clear notification procedures to ensure timely communication with emergency services, staff, and families.
Shelter-In-Place & Evacuation Planning
Based on state requirements and best practices, CAMP maintains both evacuation and shelter-in-place on higher ground procedures tailored to specific scenarios.
Because of our elevated location, flooding situations typically require sheltering in place, where campers and staff remain safely in secure buildings while conditions are monitored.
For other emergency situations, we maintain structured evacuation plans that are practiced regularly and coordinated with local emergency services.
Evacuation routes are clearly posted in all cabins and buildings and are routinely checked for accuracy and visibility.
Accessing CAMP
We understand families may have questions about accessing CAMP, since Skyline Drive is the primary road in and out of the property.
Skyline Drive is actively monitored by local authorities and is considered a priority route during weather events. During the July 4th flood, access was temporarily impacted for less than six hours and was quickly restored.
Safety Systems & Infrastructure
CAMP has implemented multiple systems to support emergency readiness, including:
- Weather alert monitoring systems
- On-site communication systems (including non-internet dependent options)
- Clearly marked and illuminated evacuation routes
- Backup generators to maintain operations during power outages
- Redundant internet connectivity to support communication (fiber and backup systems)
These systems ensure we can respond quickly and effectively in any situation.
Staff Training & Camper Orientation
- All staff and volunteers receive annual training on emergency procedures and response protocols.
- Emergency plans are practiced regularly and documented
- Campers receive a safety orientation at the beginning of their session
- Staff maintain supervision and accountability for campers at all times
We also maintain appropriate camper-to-staff ratios in accordance with state standards to ensure proper supervision and care.
Communication
Communication with families is a top priority. In any emergency or weather-related situation, our leadership team will provide timely updates via email and phone.
Out of an abundance of caution, we will also proactively communicate with families when significant weather is forecasted.
For the safety of our participants, only enrolled families and volunteers receive access to our emergency procedures.
Texas Youth Camp Licensure Update
We’re excited for Summer Camp 2026 and are looking forward to another season of connection, growth, and fun at CAMP.
All camps in Texas are completing an updated licensure process to further strengthen safety standards. The updated standards are part of new youth camp laws and rules implemented by the Youth Camp Licensing Division of the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS).
CAMP has fully implemented all new requirements, including facility updates, additional equipment, and enhanced policies and procedures. We have also submitted updated licensure materials to DSHS, including an expanded Emergency Action Plan.
Our current license has been extended while DSHS completes their review. We are awaiting final approval of our Emergency Action Plan, followed by a required onsite pre-inspection. As DSHS works to meet timelines across the state, pre-inspection scheduling may vary, and specific dates cannot be guaranteed.
CAMP will share the expanded Emergency Action Plan with accepted participants once it has been approved.
Safety has always been central to everything we do. We remain deeply committed to providing a supportive environment where campers can build confidence, form meaningful connections, and fully participate in the CAMP community.
We can’t wait to welcome our campers, volunteers, and staff this summer and continue our mission of strengthening and inspiring individuals with disabilities - and those who care for them - through Recreation, Respite, and Education, just as we have since 1979.
Our Commitment
We understand the trust families place in us. CAMP remains deeply committed to providing a safe, supportive, and joyful environment for every individual we serve.
We will continue to:
- Meet and exceed all state licensing and safety requirements
- Partner with local authorities and emergency management
- Evaluate and improve our safety practices
- Communicate openly and proactively with families
If you have any questions about our safety procedures or would like additional information, please contact us.





































