The best camping in California with swimming

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Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for camping in the United States! If you're looking to combine your love for swimming with the beauty of California, you're in luck. With over 5,500 options in California that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect spot to cool off and relax. From Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews) to Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews) and Finnon Lake Recreation Area (780 reviews), our top campsites have been highly rated by fellow campers. Whether you're into off-roading, exploring historic sites, or trying out wind sports, there's something for everyone. And with an average price per night of $65 and options as low as $15, you can find a campsite that suits your budget. Enjoy the great outdoors and make lasting memories at California's best swimming campsites!

95% (50.6K) • 31,885 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in California

Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

1. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

96%
(3333)
Caspar, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on 33 acres of coastal meadows and forest, Jug Handle Creek Nature Center is a peaceful, nature-centered campground with a rich history and a truly unique landscape. Saved from development in the 1970s, Jug Handle now stands as a thriving nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to education, restoration, and connection with the natural world. Just a five-minute walk from Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle Beach, and the renowned Ecological Staircase Trail - a rare geological formation that reveals 500,000 years of coastal history - you’ll find yourself immersed in one of Mendocino County’s most remarkable environments. We offer 11 spacious campsites, each with two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two vehicles, and plenty of room for tents. Spread out across open meadows and forest edges, the sites offer privacy, quiet, and the soothing sounds of nature. Explore on-site nature trails, a native plant nursery, and beautiful woodlands, or simply relax beneath the stars. A few important things to note: Due to the close proximity of neighboring livestock, as well as the bountiful wildlife that call this special place home, PETS ARE NO LONGER PERMITTED on the premises. Firewood is not provided, though there are several roadside stands nearby where it is available for purchase. You'll be pretty independent here. We provide self-check-in for your convenience. Directions and access information (including the bathroom code!) will be messaged to you prior to your stay. Jug Handle is the perfect place to unplug. There is NO WIFI and LIMITED/NO CELL SERVICE. Weather and wind can kick up suddenly on the coast. It is your personal responsibility to be prepared and use caution. We reserve the right to ban campfires at any time. We reserve the right to close the campground at any time if conditions are unsafe. Let's work together to stay safe, protect this special place, and enjoy everything the Mendocino Coast has to offer.
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Mystic Forest Campground

2. Mystic Forest Campground

98%
(1266)
Klamath, CA · 23 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mystic Forest is a small, family-run campground between Klamath, CA, and Crescent City. We have 50 acres of beautiful forest sprinkled with redwood trees. We have restrooms, showers, a game room, a mini golf course, horseshoes, and a half-mile trail. We are pet-friendly. At the office you can find some grocery and redwoods souvenirs. Our laundry facility will be closed indefinitely for repairs starting on August 10th.
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Finley Camp

3. Finley Camp

99%
(1522)
Bodega Bay, CA · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
Finley Camp is nestled along Finley Creek in West Sonoma County. Campsites are located in open flats surrounded by Coast Doug Fir, Alder, and California Bay forests. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and access to a porta potty and hand washing station. The campsites are located past the end of the county road allowing for a quiet peaceful experience. Enjoy a quiet stroll on site, the surrounding communities of Bodega, Bodega Bay, Valley Ford, and Tomales, or just enjoy a quiet day in camp. Our sites are located approximately 20 minutes from Bodega Bay. The campsites are 2.5 miles from the coast and the weather can be unpredictable. As a general rule, it is very similar to that of San Francisco. All camp sites are situated in a valley that offers protection from the coastal winds. The have both morning and evening shade. Sites #2, #6, #7, and #11 have the most space, while sites #4, #7, #8, #9 and #11 offer the most privacy. Sites 1-3, any combination of 5-7, and 12-13 are well suited for groups. Other site groupings work well depending on the number of sites being reserved. Site #8 is unique in that it has a wood deck/platform for tents. There are also NO wood fires allowed at site #8 as it is under the tree canopy. A propane firepit is provided for your use. You can bring a 5 gallon propane tank from home, or a full one is available for rent on site. Well behaved dogs are welcome at Finley Camp. All dogs must be kept on leash at all times while on the property. There are no exceptions to this. Finley Camp is located on an active cattle ranch and directly adjacent to a neighboring ranch with cattle. WE HAVE BEEF AGAIN! Beef is free range grass fed and all naturally raised. Please contact camp host for a price sheet or review price sheet attached to the firewood stand near Site #1. Also be sure to check out our orchard tours! The apples are ripe now and our verities will continue to ripen thru late November. We'll take you to our family orchard where you can pick apples, pears, or blueberries in season and taste yummy treats out of our family garden.
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Tahoe National Forest

4. Tahoe National Forest

92%
(264)
National forest in California · 1382 sites
Though the lake isn’t in the forest’s boundary, you can see it in panoramic views.
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Inyo National Forest

5. Inyo National Forest

96%
(460)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
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Finnon Lake Recreation Area

6. Finnon Lake Recreation Area

95%
(2499)
Placerville, CA · 18 sites · Tents, RVs
For everyone’s safety, campers under 18 need to be accompanied by an adult. ALL RV VEHICLES AND VEHICLES WITH TRAILERS MUST TAKE ROCK CREEK RD. (Even if your GPS says to use Mosquito Road). These vehicles will not fit and cannot cross the single-lane suspension Mosquito Bridge. These vehicles and trailers will be forced to turn around or back up to take Rock Creek Road. STRICT CANCELLATION POLICY - CANCEL WITHIN 8 DAYS TO RECEIVE A REFUND. OR CONTACT HIPCAMP TO CHANGE YOUR DATES. Smoke on the Water diner is open weekends, 530-622-1060—hours change. Use caution - twisty, narrow country road. If it's your first time, you might want to check out the route beforehand. From Sacramento on Hwy 50: At the second stop light, Spring St./Hwy 49, turn left, heading north about 1 block to the stop sign. Turn left, staying on Hwy 49, approximately 1 mile. Turn right on Hwy 193. Travel approximately 3.1 miles to Rock Creek Road. Turn onto Rock Creek Road and travel 8.9 miles to Finnon Lake/Diner on the Left. The campground is behind the Diner. Traveling West on 50 from Tahoe: Make a right on HWY 49 traveling north. Follow the above instructions. Welcome to Finnon Lake Recreation Area! The night skies above Finnon Lake will reveal stars unseen in California. Enjoy searching for bullfrogs, and watch the flock of Canadian Geese fly in right at sunset as the horizon blends into the watercolor sky. This private lake supports the Mosquito Fire Protection District's fire protection efforts and the firefighters of this community. Community volunteers manage the lake for the residents and the Fire Station. The primary funding source for the Finnon Lake Restoration is the Sierra Nevada Conservancy, which was signed into law in 2004 with a mission to support “efforts that improve the environmental, economic and social well-being of the Sierra Nevada Region, its communities and the residents of California,” according to its Website. Finnon Lake is also home to a popular 27-hole disc golf course and Mosquito’s only restaurant, Smoke on the Water Diner, which is open on weekends only. 530-622-1060. During your stay, you can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, paddling, hiking, or biking. Sites are from post to post. Our property is located in Placerville, California.
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The Ranch at Cross Road

7. The Ranch at Cross Road

96%
(825)
Livermore, CA · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the ranch at cross road! We are a family owned organic farm in the heart of Livermore wine country. We have 12 camp sites spread across the property for you to choose from. The property is 15 minutes from Lake Del Valle and some of the best wineries and breweries California has to offer. Settle in and enjoy amazing sunsets every night with us! We accommodate tents,Travel trailers, Fifth wheels, Toy haulers, Pop-up campers, Class A RVs, Class B RVs, Class C RVs, Campervans, and Cars. Our guests love us too! "I had a wonderful stay at Matt’s ranch! It was easy to find even as it was starting to get dark, and the campsites were well lit and easy to find. The ranch is beautiful. It was such a treat to stay here. I would definitely stay again."
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Saddle Mountain Carmel

8. Saddle Mountain Carmel

91%
(681)
Carmel, CA · 52 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Saddle Mountain, RV and Campground! We are located on 89 acres of forest land off Carmel Valley Road, just 5 miles from HWY 1. Nestled within oaks, Monterey pines, and redwoods, Saddle Mountain offers a great family friendly getaway for those seeking a break from the bustle of life. Please note, all our sites are pet friendly, but there are additional fees and size limitations depending on the type of site. Please add to the reservation or message us. On site seasonally heated pool (Memorial Day weekend in May through October). ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: *Please continue reviewing/monitoring California Travel guidelines as they may change and affect your reservation* On site seasonally heated pool (seasonally), private hiking trail, playground, ping pong table and more. No refund for inclement weather during the Winter months. We provide complementary Wi-Fi in designated areas of the park. We ask that there is no streaming at the Park so we can share Wi-Fi with all our guests. Thank you!
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Yosemite Colfax Spring

9. Yosemite Colfax Spring

98%
(901)
Groveland, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Your Basecamp for Yosemite Adventure 🌲⛰ Just 15–20 minutes from the entrance of Yosemite National Park and about an hour from the Yosemite Valley floor, our camp offers the perfect location to recharge after exploring one of the most iconic natural landscapes on Earth. We’re also about 1.5 hours from the high-country beauty of Tuolumne Meadows, making this a great launchpad for day trips in every direction. Perched in the scenic Sierra foothills, our dry camping sites are celebrated for breathtaking panoramic views, open skies, and unforgettable sunrises and starry nights. It’s an ideal place to unwind, reconnect, and experience the outdoors in its raw beauty — without giving up the comfort of flushing toilets and hot, on-demand showers. Most of our sites are best suited for those who plan to explore during the day and return in the evening, as they receive full sun and have limited shade throughout the midday hours (during the summer months). For those looking to hang around camp during the day, we recommend bringing a shade canopy or pop-up to make your stay more comfortable. Whether you’re here for epic hikes, rock climbs, or peaceful views, our camp is a restful and rustic homebase nestled close to the wonders of Yosemite.
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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%
(140)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
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Sierra National Forest

11. Sierra National Forest

92%
(182)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
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Los Padres National Forest

12. Los Padres National Forest

95%
(466)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
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San Bernardino National Forest

13. San Bernardino National Forest

94%
(158)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
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Salmon Creek Ranch

14. Salmon Creek Ranch

97%
(2368)
Bodega Bay, CA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located within 45 minutes of the wine country and 2 miles from the coast, our property is 400 acres of rolling hills and redwood groves, with a creek running along its base. With miles of trails meandering through quiet woods and meadows, you will be able to revel in the tranquility of a private preserve, without sacrificing easy access to some of Sonoma County's most famous attractions. A hundred years ago, this land was used to graze sheep. Remnants of the old fence lines can still be seen in places, along with old cement troughs. Since then, the land has been left to its own devices, passing through many hands, most famously owned by two brothers in the 1980's who built a truly amazing tree house in the forest which has been featured in several magazine articles. It was revamped and updated in 2016 by a master craftsman, using fallen redwood logs found on the property and is now a unique structural work of art, available for overnight stays. We produce 100% grass fed, dry-aged beef on our certified organic pastures and have a store on site if you would like to purchase delicious steaks, ribs, ground beef for hamburgers or some roasts to take home. Our cattle graze on the native grasses, never grain, and drink only water produced from our own springs. We also raise Kiko meat goats and produce pastured, certified organic duck eggs on a commercial basis. Whether it's surfing at sandy beaches, award-winning clam chowder, a wine tour, horseback riding or a hot air balloon ride you're after, you won't have far to drive if you make our ranch your base camp. You may see a family of deer appear suddenly, or a few Scottish Highland cows which we allow to roam freely over the property. There are over twenty species of wild birds that grace this protected spot, so bring your binoculars! A portion of your fee goes towards protecting native flora and fauna as part of our private wildlife preservation program. A limited number of private, widely spaced camp spots are available for visitors. The Eagles' Nest Treehouse (mentioned above) is very isolated and you may or may not even be aware that there are other people within miles of you. For those who value nature, seclusion, quiet and the artistry of old growth redwood, this is the place for you.
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Meadow camping in Bolinas

15. Meadow camping in Bolinas

97%
(648)
Bolinas, CA · 6 sites · Tents, Lodging
Welcome to Blackberry Farm, a rustic retreat in Bolinas on the western slope of Mount Tamalpais. Set on historic Peter’s Dairy Ranch, our farm offers a grassy meadow with 4 walk-in tent sites, plus two rustic sheds. Wake to songbirds, hens, and sheep, and fall asleep under the stars. Amenities include an outdoor shower and hot tub, a covered cooking area, hangout space, tree swings, and redwood grove seating. Just a 15-minute walk to downtown Bolinas and the beach. Group camping welcome—please self-book all sites and sheds for private gatherings (max 20 people). Reservations open 3 months in advance. Sites book out fast. Closed seasonally from Thanksgiving to early March. BYO Tent Campsites Site 1: Left meadow, near kitchen + hot tub Site 2: Center, by the bee garden and apiary Site 3: Right, under cypress trees by the orchard Site 4: Near pasture gate + parking (best for car/van campers) Book Sites 1–3 for the back half of the meadow, or all 4 tent sites (2 tents per site) plus the rustic sheds to reserve the entire camp for privacy. Amenities at a Glance: 4 walk-in meadow campsites, 2 rustic sheds Communal camping (shared amenities) Outdoor shower & hot tub Covered cook area with a propane camp stove Weather-protected hangout space Tree swings & redwood grove seating Wheelbarrow for hauling gear Recycling & compost bins (pack out your trash) 15-min walk to Bolinas + beach House Rules at a Glance Seasonal: Closed Thanksgiving–early March Booking: Reservations open 3 months in advance Groups: Self-book all sites for family/friends gatherings. No amplified music or loud behavior. Sound carries further than you'd think. Please respect our neighbors. Pets: 1 well-behaved, leashed dog per site (no chasing animals or disturbing guests) Families: Mind your children. (no harassing farm animals or moving farm stuff) Parking: 1 car per site (max 18' L × 7' W × 10' H). No RVs, trailers, or meadow parking Gear: Campsites are walk-in; wheelbarrow provided Waste: Pack it in, pack it out. Recycling + food-scrap compost available
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Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

16. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp

95%
(699)
Somerset, CA · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
There is NOTHING like being in the wilderness of this area for a good re-centering of the soul! We have found it to be a true blessing for our family, and we hope you can experience this blessing as we share this space with you. We feel certain you will not be disappointed with our beautiful river canyon. Our property is situated right on the middle fork Cosumnes river. The swimming is awesome and the stars at night will put you into a state of awe! In the area there are many family owned wineries in the area, most of them offering free tasting! It’s a short drive to Tahoe and the Marshall gold discovery site as well as the historic hangtown Placerville. We are happy to make suggestions for local hiking areas, like the Devil's Slide "Gorge" only a 15 minute drive but like a trip to mini Yosemite. The Caldor Fire was VERY close to our property and a back burn was initiated nearby the our house (literally 200' away!). Our property became a pivotal point of fighting the fire in our community known as the “Ant Hill Army”. Ask us about the story!
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The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

17. The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

94%
(820)
Valley Ford, CA · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
The Meadow Grove is a wild and natural pasture with campsites located near the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad bed on a family owned working ranch in coastal Northern California. The camp sites are nestled in a pasture and grove of mixed Eucalyptus, willow and cypress trees. The sites are perfect for tents or camper vans, or small trailers. [When we open in the spring, the grass can be 'slippery' and it is recommended you have 4WD. Around mid-June it is dried out enough for 2WD access to all sites]. Not suitable for RVs It is also, managed and operated by a single mother. Please keep this in mind. Notes about the campsites are: They each come with a picnic table. The grounds are a working ranch, so there is variations of the soil- some lumps and bumps and general natural state of a pasture v. a groomed lawn. Site #1, #2, #3, and #4 have the most level areas for parking and tent-ing. Up until mid-June, we recommend #1 for 2WD access. Campervans that do not have 4WD may have trouble accessing other sites. Please remember this when you book! *Campers who "change sites" without written approval by the host will be charged double!* There is a composting camp toilet, we do not have running water at the campground. The ranch itself is 300 acres of rolling hills pasture, with hilltop views of the Estero Americano valley. The Meadow Grove is home to many varieties of raptors and other birds-providing excellent bird watching. Seasonally there are blackberries to fill your containers, and some hiking. We are mere minutes from the quaint towns of Valley Ford, Tomales, and Dillon Beach, and a short drive from Bodega, Bodega Bay or Marshall, Pt. Reyes Station and Inverness. Nearby attractions include: Sonoma Coast beaches, Pt. Reyes National Seashore, coastal hiking trails, local farm-to-table eateries. Inland attractions include: redwoods, wine tasting, Russian River activities and so much more. The ranch borders Hwy 1, so there is some degree of road noise. Traffic usually dies down mid afternoon, and isn't too much of a disturbance. Virtually all traffic on our stretch of road is daytime traffic. There can be however, some heavy weekend traffic during the day with car clubs and motorcycle riders enjoying the coastal highway. *The Friendly Gray Cat's name is Boots!*
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Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

18. Sacred Earth Retreat (SER)

96%
(103)
Ben Lomond, CA · 4 sites
For over 40 years, Sacred Earth has been cherished by many as an example of sustainable off-grid living immersed in nature. While it is just 12 minutes drive from the village of Ben Lomond, 30 from Santa Cruz beaches, and 90 minutes to Berkeley, this valley feels as though you are deep in the wilds, complete with old growth Redwoods you can stand inside and far- reaching majestic Madrones. The land is home to the headwaters of Love Creek, with springs to be found in fern gullies and gentle babbling brooks. The breathtaking ridgetop has expansive views down the San Lorenzo Valley southeast and westerly views to Ben Lomond Mountain, the final hill between this place and the Pacific. Don’t miss the sunrise with meandering mist rising off the valley. Large sites allow for family and group gatherings/activities, while small tucked in tent sites provide hidden nooks. Hiking trails (open in dry season only) encircle the land and allow for moderate walks throughout its mostly vertical terrain. What is truly dynamic about Sacred Earth is the sheer diversity of plant and animal species combined with its proximity to world-class surfing, sailing, scuba, mountain biking, hiking, birdwatching, etc. Make your stay in Santa Cruz Mountains at SER.
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Kings Canyon Campground

19. Kings Canyon Campground

92%
(627)
Wilsonia, CA · 16 sites · Tents, RVs
This rustic campground is located in Kings Canyon on hwy 180, 16 miles past the Sequoia-Kings Canyon Park entrance. Magnificent views of Kings Canyon from the property. Camp sites with picnic tables. Flushing toilets on site. Water and sewer hookups available at rv sites. Great base camp between both Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP. 6 miles to the mighty Kings River, 12 miles to Grant Grove and the Giant Sequoia’s, 16 miles to Cedar Grove, 22 miles to “Roads End” and trail head for the endless backcountry trails including the Pacific Crest trail. Easy access to General’s Hwy for Sequoia National Park access Google plus code for maps copy&paste “ R497+877 Hume Station, California “ Water falls https://www.travellerselixir.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-waterfall-road-trip/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASKj-9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeyJCbd_Ziq9AzEyj0hDzuuKM4SJKVN2kBn8aDVyl-i15Ss5t6P23TwnWvzGs_aem_He7KWTHRgoRPNy77SnnqUQ Please note the ice cream and gas are not part of the campground, it is generally open on weekends, however it should not be relied upon.
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RockNWater Cove Camping

20. RockNWater Cove Camping

98%
(792)
Lotus, CA · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway with a few close friends or your family, this option is for you. Tucked in along the South Fork of the American River, this beautiful campsite features picnic benches, a propane fire pit with propane included (fire pits help prevent wildfires), and a prep table for fixing up those tasty fireside meals in group sites. Guests also have access to shared bathroom facilities (and yes, there are showers!), volleyball, ping pong, communal benches, a sink and dishwashing station, and a common swimming area along the river. Most sites are within a very short walking distance to the banks of the South Fork of the American River, this place is ideal for anyone interested in experiencing the beauty of the foothills and the rush of the river. We offer both tent and RV sites. Each RV site includes its own picnic table, water and 30Amp power hookups. Guests will also have access to our volleyball court, ping pong, communal benches, and a common area with a sink and dishwashing station. Additionally, you can access the swim area and go for a dip to cool off on a hot day. We offer toilets, showers, trash disposal, potable water and more depending on the site you chose. Leashed pets 40 pounds or less are allowed as well. Enjoy biking, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, paddling, climbing, swimming, whitewater rafting, and wildlife watching all nearby, or on site. **Please read rules: 1. Use of or participation in any of the following while on camp grounds is prohibited during your stay: ● Illegal drugs ● Smoking ● Public intoxication ● Fireworks ● No Charcoal 2. Pets/Animals: Guests at our RV sites are permitted to have up to 1 small dog (under 40lbs). Dogs must be leashed at all times when outside the RV. As a courtesy to both staff and fellow guests, please pick up after your pets. 3. Noise Restrictions: Due to policies that govern campgrounds guests are asked to refrain from playing amplified music or running generators. 10PM-8AM quiet hours. 4. Please refrain from cursing or using obscene language, particularly while in the presence of minors. 5. Water Safety: There is no lifeguard on duty. Minors must be supervised by an adult AT ALL TIMES when near the water.
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field