Missouri National Guard Airlifts 202 Children and Staff from Flooded Camp Taum Sauk

Iron Co., Mo. (KFMO) - More than 200 children and staff were safely rescued Friday after historic flooding stranded a summer camp in Reynolds County.

The Missouri National Guard conducted a large-scale helicopter evacuation Friday after severe flooding isolated Camp Taum Sauk near Lesterville.

Historic rainfall across Iron and Reynolds counties caused flash flooding overnight Thursday into Friday, leaving nearby roads underwater and impassable. The dangerous conditions stranded campers and staff as additional rainfall threatened the area.

At approximately 2:30 a.m. Friday, July 10, camp officials moved 202 children and counselors into the camp's dining hall as floodwaters continued to rise around the property.

Governor Mike Kehoe activated the Missouri National Guard to assist with the emergency rescue operation. Eight UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, staffed by approximately 35 crewmembers, were dispatched to Camp Taum Sauk.

The helicopters safely airlifted all 202 children and counselors from the camp to Arcadia Valley Elementary School, where first responders and emergency personnel assisted with reunifications as families awaited their arrival.

The successful operation was part of a broader emergency response to catastrophic flooding that impacted Iron and Reynolds counties, prompting numerous water rescues and a State of Emergency declaration by the governor.

Despite the dangerous conditions, all campers and staff were safely evacuated without reported injuries.