- Camping with Swimming
The best camping in California with swimming
95% (47.7K) • 31,979 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds in California
Mystic Forest Campground
1. Mystic Forest Campground
98%
(989)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Finnon Lake Recreation Area
2. Finnon Lake Recreation Area
95%
(2411)
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 fire protection efforts of the Mosquito Fire Protection District 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 18-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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Campfires
Diamond Gulch
3. Diamond Gulch
96%
(1199)
Groveland, CA · 34 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Groups of 15 or more use this code for 15% off your stay! ADMXESCZ Check out this sweet YouTube video of the property! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oEvKF5nqcUM
Early and late check-out available on tent/rv sites, free of charge. Just message me if you need an earlier check in! Free firewood! We are 30 minutes to the main gate of Yosemite National Park. A great place to stay just outside of the park. Be near the park, but feel that complete privacy. These sites are very spaced out from each other and are large. No need to cram together! Explore the mines and hang out on our Groveland, California ranch!
We have 824 acres on a beautiful cattle ranch with two small ponds. On our property, you'll find frogs, turtles, oak trees, pine trees and stunning views of Yosemite.
We have several campsites to choose from including RV camping, tent camping, and a glamping tent. Pets are welcome. Campfires are permitted as long as there is no fire ban. Potable water and toilet are available onsite.
There's a golf course less than a mile away. We are also very close to town. In just a few minutes, you can drive to our local grocery store and pizza parlour.
We are a 10-minute drive to Pine Mountain Lake. Beautiful Pine Mountain Lake offers golfing, dining, horseback riding, water sports and an airport.
When you come to the ranch it feels like you are hundreds of miles away from civilization, but still close to everything you need. It is incredibly peaceful!
This is a great place for someone who wants to escape city life and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Much of the ranch is open wilderness for you to explore, and it's not uncommon to see deer, frogs, turtles, quail, turkeys, or other countless species of birds.
Diamond Gulch Camp is the perfect place to relax if you’re a photographer, artist, family or a group of friends looking for a place to camp near Yosemite.
A small portion of the property was used as a gold mine years ago, and you may find remnants of old home sites if you go exploring. We're not far from Wards Ferry Road, Groveland, Lake Don Pedro and other interesting places.
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Tahoe National Forest
4. Tahoe National Forest
93%
(255)
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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Campfires
Inyo National Forest
5. Inyo National Forest
96%
(456)
National forest in California · 1976 sites
Explore ancient pine forests, curious rock formations, and massive peaks in this sprawling national forest.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Johneaux
6. Camp Johneaux
100%
(1)
Redway, CA · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Small cabin with a fridge/freezer, cook stove and oven, propane heater, hot shower/clawfoot tub and a standard size futon mattress (currently occupied).
Tent site is available. Please bring your own tent & bedding. Electricity is available, but no WiFi. The pit-toilet is shared with cabin tenants. There is also a delightful, private swimming hole on the property enjoyed seasonally. Close to ancient giant redwood grove and Redway Beach on the Eel River.
Approximately 17 miles from Shelter Cove and 25 miles from the Sinkyone Wilderness Reserve. The King’s Peak is a great hike with awesome views of the Pacific and rugged Lost Coast. Close to Avenue of the Giants which offers an array of gorgeous loop trails from easy to moderate, through magnificent ancient redwood groves.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Showers
Kings Canyon Campground
7. Kings Canyon Campground
92%
(763)
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. Ten Mile Creek running thru the property. Magnificent views of Kings Canyon from the property.
Google plus code for maps R497+877 Hume Station, California
Campground sites with picnic tables. Flushing toilets on site. Water and sewer hookups available at some sites. 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
Water falls
https://www.travellerselixir.com/sequoia-kings-canyon-waterfall-road-trip/?fbclid=IwdGRjcASKj-9leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEeyJCbd_Ziq9AzEyj0hDzuuKM4SJKVN2kBn8aDVyl-i15Ss5t6P23TwnWvzGs_aem_He7KWTHRgoRPNy77SnnqUQ
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Cosumnes River Somerset Camp
8. Cosumnes River Somerset Camp
95%
(606)
Somerset, CA · 10 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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Campfires
Yosemite Colfax Spring
9. Yosemite Colfax Spring
98%
(1031)
Groveland, CA · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Shasta-Trinity National Forest
10. Shasta-Trinity National Forest
93%
(138)
National forest in California · 912 sites
California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.
Pets
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Campfires
Sierra National Forest
11. Sierra National Forest
92%
(176)
National forest in California · 1360 sites
“Secret Yosemite” offers scenic beauty, rugged forests, and outdoor recreation with smaller crowds.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Los Padres National Forest
12. Los Padres National Forest
95%
(454)
National forest in California · 762 sites
From beach to mountain, California's second largest forest offers recreation in diverse ecosystems.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
San Bernardino National Forest
13. San Bernardino National Forest
94%
(153)
National forest in California · 863 sites
Test your summiting skills on some of Southern California's most picturesque peaks.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jug Handle Creek Nature Center
14. Jug Handle Creek Nature Center
96%
(5378)
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.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mill Creek Resort
15. Mill Creek Resort
98%
(2310)
Mineral, CA · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome! We’re Jillian and Joe, along with our sidekicks Sonora, Ayla and Rosalyn the brains and the brawn behind Mill Creek Resort. Since 2017, we have been pouring every ounce of our love and energy into this landmark 1930’s resort. We take great pride in honoring it's rich history while creating a space for the next generation of mountain adventurers.
Nestled in 12 acres of cedars and towering pines on the south side of Lassen Volcanic National Park, we offer 9 cabins open year-round, along with 20 campsites, some featuring glamping tents and 8 RV spots, two featuring a vintage 70's trailer and 2015 modern RV.
We hope your path leads you here to experience all that Lassen has to offer. Miles of trails, pristine waters, dark skies, and wildlife abound, all awaiting to be discovered.
Find your Wild, be kind, and leave no trace.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Saddle Mountain Carmel
16. Saddle Mountain Carmel
92%
(618)
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, our RV and tent sites are pet friendly but YOU MUST ADD THE PET FEE EXTRA WHEN MAKING YOUR BOOKING.
We charge $15 per pet and you can bring a maximum of 2 pets.
On site seasonally heated pool (Mid May through Oct).
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, Foosball 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Yosemite Westlake Camp
17. Yosemite Westlake Camp
88%
(663)
Coulterville, CA · 32 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located on the John Muir Historic route to Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Westlake Campground and RV Park is convenient to all things Yosemite.
Between here and the park is Rainbow Pool, a well-known swimming hole that campers here often visit on their way back to the campground for a refreshing dip in the cool waters.
Coulterville was started as a gold-rush town. You can visit the museum and visitor center even try your hand at panning for gold.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Finley Camp
18. Finley Camp
99%
(1891)
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.
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Cosumnes River Ranch
19. Cosumnes River Ranch
99%
(1948)
Plymouth, CA · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a family owned/operated ranch, located along the Cosumnes River, one of the last un-dammed rivers in California.
As one of the last rivers flowing from the west slope of the Sierra without a major dam, the Cosumnes is a vital example of a healthy watershed.
Our goal is to offer a unique outdoor experience for anyone looking for a place to spend time in the great outdoors.
Whether you're looking for a single campsite, or a place for a larger gathering, we're excited to have you visit!
Take your pick of activities available on site: swimming , gold panning, fishing, camp fires, wildlife watching, floating, hiking, and mountain biking to name a few. There are 3 miles of river to explore.
*Please note: We don't allow wood campfires during the summer months (generally the last week of May through September)*
Pets
Toilets
Wifi
Baby Banana Slug Farm
20. Baby Banana Slug Farm
98%
(826)
Albion, CA · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Private camping, glamping, and retreats in the redwood forest. Our two tent camping sites are tucked in the trees offering a very peaceful and private way to connect to nature with the family. Our three small cabins are perfect for anyone looking to escape from the hustle of daily life, and redwood retreat is the perfect size for the whole family. This property is hosted by a three generational family who live on-site and are available for any questions and concerns as they may arise. Pets welcome.
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Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
L
Laurie
5 days ago
20 ft campervan
Liza and Tom’s place was great! The views were amazing and it was very convenient to the national park. We would definitely stay again.
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E
Emily
1 week ago
Tent
Beautiful spot, clean bathrooms and showers and very friendly hosts. It was a perfect getaway.
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A
Anna
2 weeks ago
Tent
This place is amazing! I can’t wait to come back. Private and beautiful
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M
M
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Friendly host and great property that is clearly loved. Slept like a baby to the sounds of the river with my dog
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L
Luis
2 weeks ago
Tent
Great place. Good facilities. Good bathroom and shower. Easy access and the host was always very reaponsive!
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J
Jennie
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
We loved this campsite! Very peaceful with a beautiful creek to go in
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K
Kul Bhushan
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Loved the place. It's beautiful place and it has Great trails as well.
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S
Sahith
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Diamond Gulch
Great experience staying two nights at Diamond Gulch. The glamping site is fully set-up with everything one might need from a camping experience.
The site is located on top a hill surrounded by beautiful landscapes and grazing cows (brace yourself for the early morning wake up moos). You can connect with John before you come-in for any queries - the site is usually setup with firewood as well. There's a private toilet and a communal shower nearby that gets warm water.
I'd definitely recommend this site, and considering visiting again myself soon.
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Brittany
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Beautiful and remote campground. Site 8 had a beautiful view and lots of privacy! I would highly recommend this spot.
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V
Victoria
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to Finley Camp
Great peaceful camping trip! The firewood that can be purchased is lasts long. The porta potties were clean! Seems like it’s cleaned before every weekend. Hand washing station also provided.
The property is well kept and the site that we had #10 was great. Far enough from other camps to feel comfortable and private but also not super far to feel completely alone.
Will definitely go back! We are wanting to try some other sites here.
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V
Vinny
2 weeks ago
Tent
Had a blast. They had everything you needed to get cleaned up after a long day of hiking. Would go back again.
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J
Jaimie
2 weeks ago
12 ft travel trailer
With pets
Dan has an amazing camp ground and Site 11 was perfect. Very quiet, serene, well kept with anything you might need. Portable toilets were pristine!!!
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J
Jaye
2 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Had a fantastic time camping at site 9! FYI if you were planning to have flat space for any sort of sports/games, I would recommend the other campsites that have “less privacy” but have access to a field. Site 9 is sloped and gravely so difficult to play games safely without slipping and sliding. Also, Daniel was a great host and provided firewood to purchase at the gate (15 a bundle) and also drove around once during the weekend to offer additional bundles. A personal small nit pick, but the purchasable firewood was on the lower quality side (softwood, burned very quickly) imo so next time I think I would bring all my own wood. We were able to fit 2 four person tents at the top of the steps and slept very comfortably. Porta potty’s were a little bit of a walk (down a quick switch back) but incredibly clean and a luxury! Lots of cool bird species and even some baby banana slugs. Would definitely come back!
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A
Ashish
2 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Excellent location, it was a perfect car/tent camping and stargazing experience for us!
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Miri
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Lovely campsite! Very well maintained, very chill and close the water. Would defiantly come back!
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T
Theresa
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
I loved tent camping lake front. Stayed 2 nights and it was awesome. Very safe and don’t have to worry about bears. The bathrooms are clean.
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C
Christine
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was my second visit to the River site. Highly recommend! The camp hosts are friendly and helpful and I really enjoy running into them when there.
It’s really close to the river so you fall asleep to the sound of water.
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J
James
2 weeks ago
Tent
Nice site, well maintained and having all of the basic camping amenities. Site was as advertised.
See moreD
Dana
2 weeks ago
Tent
We loved camping at this camp site! The host was very kind and helped us out by finding some oil for our car after we realized we had a leak. The campsite was very clean and had excellent bathrooms! We would 100% stay here again and recommend it to friends!
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K
Katie
2 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
It was well shaded with trees, bathroom stayed clean, our camp site was right on the water which was amazing. Our site had an incline but it said that ahead of time on the app. The weather was perfect, the whole camp ground was quiet in mid-May.
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