Turning Bayou Teche into a Premier Camping Destination
A new chapter is unfolding along the scenic banks of Bayou Teche—one that promises to transform the way people experience Louisiana’s natural beauty. Property owner and founder Howard Rattliff is working closely with the City of St. Martinville to develop Camping on the Bayou, a private, low-density camping alternative that offers space, tranquility, and closeness to culture. KATC News
Proven Demand & a Fresh Approach
In the early stages, Rattliff and his team ran a soft launch using HarvestHosts, bringing in 25 stays that validated the business model. KATC News He saw firsthand how traditional campgrounds often feel crowded and overstimulating—and believed there was a market for something more peaceful. “We think there’s a market for an alternative to that scenario,” he shared. KATC News
With that data in hand, Rattliff began pitching the idea to city officials. His vision: expand private camping into the festival-grounds area near downtown St. Martinville, helping to weave tourism into local culture while preserving the quiet charm of the surroundings. KATC News
Working Hand in Hand with the City
What makes this project unique is its cooperative nature. Rattliff is not just building a campground—he’s coordinating closely with city leadership to ensure the plan benefits everyone. He has proposed developing additional campsites at the Festival Grounds, inviting visitors to stay near city festivals, shops, and historical sites. KATC News
Rattliff hopes this model can stretch beyond one location. He’s exploring possibilities to expand along the bayou, connecting other communities and attractions in a network of thoughtfully planned camping experiences. KATC News
Voices from the Road
Campers who’ve already visited have expressed excitement and support. Crow and Terry Thibodeaux from Texas said they appreciated the project’s potential and the charm of St. Martinville:
“You just can’t say enough about it … it’s rich in history.” KATC News
These voices echo the goal of the development: to raise awareness of the region’s beauty while offering lodging that feels respectful, personal, and rooted in place.
What’s Next
While still early in development, Camping on the Bayou is poised to become one of the region’s go-to outdoor escapes. With an exclusive agreement in the works to manage new campsite locations near the city’s festival grounds, the project is shifting from concept to high-impact destination. KATC News
For visitors and locals alike, this evolution means more than just a new place to stay—it’s an invitation to slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover the quiet magic of Louisiana’s bayou country.
