General · Texas behavioral health news
Texas summer camps have closed, scaled back operations due to state’s new regulations
Texas Tribune – Health · By Stephen Simpson · May 18, 2026
In plain language
Many Texas summer camps are closing or reducing their programs after the state passed new safety laws and increased licensing fees. These changes follow a tragic flood in the Hill Country, but many camp directors say the rules are too expensive and difficult to follow, especially for smaller or rural programs. While some rules like mandatory fiber-optic internet have been paused, the high costs of licensing and building upgrades are still forcing some camps to sell their land. This leaves many families, particularly those with low incomes, struggling to find affordable summer care and activities for their children.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- New Texas regulations for youth camps include higher licensing fees and requirements for advanced weather systems.
- At least 66 camps have disappeared from the state's active roster since the new rules went into effect.
- Rural camps are struggling to meet requirements for fiber-optic internet due to their remote locations and high costs.
- Some urban camps are cutting activities like archery or riflery to avoid being classified as a licensed youth camp.
- The new rules were created in response to a 2025 flood that killed children and counselors at a camp.
- Families from low-income and rural areas are losing access to affordable summer childcare as smaller camps close.
A camper soars through the air on a giant swing at Camp CAMP, a summer camp hosted by Children’s Association for Maximum Potential for people with disabilities, on July 22, 2025, in Center Point. Camp CAMP is open for summer 2026, but many camps, unable to meet new requirements passed by the state Legislature, remain closed. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/www.texastribune.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/0722-Camp-Camp-Reopens-EH-20-.jpg?fit=780%2C520&quality=89&ssl=1" /> There are 66 fewer active summer camps in Texas compared to December, according to the state. The post Texas summer camps have closed, scaled back operations due to state’s new regulations appeared first on The Texas Tribune.
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