Historic flash flooding has devastated Huzzah Valley Resort in Crawford County, Missouri, after torrential overnight rainfall sent Huzzah Creek to record levels. Resort staff evacuated hundreds of campers as rapidly rising water inundated campsites, damaged buildings, and forced the closure of the popular campground for the weekend.
According to Huzzah Valley Resort, approximately 8 inches of rain fell upstream overnight, causing Huzzah Creek to rise at an unprecedented pace. Staff began monitoring weather conditions shortly after midnight and initiated evacuations around 4 a.m., safely moving an estimated 150 to 200 campers out of the flood-prone areas before conditions became even more dangerous.
The flooding pushed the USGS gauge at the State Route 8 bridge over Huzzah Creek to 20 feet, surpassing the previous record of 17 feet. Resort officials described it as the worst flood in Huzzah Valley Resort’s history since the family-owned business opened in 1979. For the first time on record, floodwater entered the resort’s main store, reaching approximately three feet inside the building and causing significant damage.
Huzzah Valley Resort is one of several campgrounds impacted by the widespread flooding across south-central Missouri. Nearby locations, including Twin Rivers Landing, Ozark Outdoors, Bass River Resort, Camp Taum Sauk, and Parks Bluff, also experienced evacuations or flood damage as intense rainfall overwhelmed rivers and streams throughout the region. Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency as emergency crews conducted hundreds of water rescues across Crawford, Reynolds, Iron, Madison, and Wayne counties.
Although floodwaters have begun to recede, cleanup efforts are now underway at Huzzah Valley Resort. Authorities continue searching for a missing woman who is believed to have been swept away during the flooding in Crawford County, while damaged roads and washed-out bridges continue to affect travel throughout the area. Emergency officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid flooded roadways and follow local advisories as recovery operations continue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Huzzah Valley flooded today?
Heavy overnight rainfall caused Huzzah Creek to rise to record levels, resulting in historic flooding across Huzzah Valley Resort and surrounding communities.
Was Huzzah Valley Resort evacuated?
Yes. Resort staff safely evacuated approximately 150 to 200 campers before floodwaters reached the campground.
Is Huzzah Valley Resort open?
No. The resort asked campers not to travel there this weekend because of flooding and ongoing cleanup operations.
Recovery efforts continue as emergency crews assess damage and restore access to affected areas. Officials encourage the public to monitor weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel while cleanup operations remain underway.
Disclaimer: This is a developing story. Information is based on official statements and credible news reports available at the time of publication and may be updated as additional details are confirmed.
i heard rumors huzzah will close for the summer!