Missouri floods trigger mass camp airlifts, one missing
PUBLISHED Jul 11, 2026, 8:30 PM ET
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Severe flash flooding in southeast Missouri on Friday led to hundreds of rescues, including the airlift of more than 200 children and counselors from Camp Taum Sauk near Lesterville. Heavy rains washed out surrounding roads, prompting the Missouri National Guard to deploy eight Black Hawk helicopters to transport 202 campers and staff to a nearby elementary school for reunification with families. At the Bearcat Getaway campground on the Black River, about 85 miles south of St. Louis, roughly 20 people sought refuge on a roof before it collapsed. In Crawford County, one woman, Faith Gregory, remains missing after her home was swept from its foundation.
By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News
Timeline of Events
- Friday Heavy rain triggers flash flooding
- Friday Roads washed out near Camp Taum Sauk
- Friday Eight Black Hawks airlift 202 campers
- Friday Campers reunited at nearby elementary school
- Friday Roof collapses at Bearcat Getaway campground
- Friday Three people rescued from Black River trees
- Saturday Authorities confirm one woman still missing
- Saturday Family and friends continue searching Gregory
News Intelligence
- This event underscores the importance of emergency preparedness, especially in flood-prone regions. It's a reminder to review your family's evacuation plan and ensure you have a stocked emergency kit. If you're sending your kids to camp, check the site's safety measures.
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