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96% (2.3K) • 3,088 campsites
Top-rated campgrounds near Lysander
Thorndon Meadows
1. Thorndon Meadows
97%
(128)
15mi from Lysander · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Looking for some peace and quiet? Up for an adventure with rustic camping? If so, this is it! I hope you're interested enough to read my entire description.
Our property was once part of a much larger business farm. It has not been under a tractor since 2010, except for mowing.
We have been hosting for HipCamp since 2019 and we are eager to meet you and hear what you think of our acres.
The gorgeous sunsets over Lake Ontario are world renowned, and
our primitive camp sites are just one half mile from the lake.
The
terrain is hilly, elevation ranges from 320' - 380'.
Due to the location on the hill, great views of the spectacular sunrise can also be seen (from the ground) and pretty much most of the sunsets. Excellent opportunities for bird watching, we have seen everything from goldfinches to bald eagles, with sightings of indigo buntings, sparrowhawks, snow and Canada geese, according to season. Wildflowers, berries and herbs are in abundance, when in season. Being right near the fourth largest Great Lake the campgrounds is a great spot for cloud watching, kite sailing and star viewing - there is no light pollution.
Fresh water divers?
There are dozens of sunken shipwrecks in Lake Ontario and, NOAA national marine sanctuary in eastern Lake Ontario to protect historically significant shipwrecks and maritime heritage resources.
Oh, and did I mention the
world class fishing?
Co-owner, Valerie, is a permaculturist and welcomes conversation about anything environmental.
The flattest part of the hill was once under cultivation but since 2010 has been allowed to revert to woodlands.
I farm trees, the only animals here will be the ones that Nature sends (or if you bring a pet). Fruit and nut trees have been planted, as well as
some berries, so since 2010 they are not very large.
My trees are very important. Please take care not to injure them. Seasoned firewood is plentiful from the prunings as well as from deadfall and extra can be purchased at the farm - $6. per bundle.
(Per New York State DEC
regulation, untreated firewood may not be moved over 50 miles.)
Please take responsibility for the energy you bring to this space. Campfires are encouraged but bonfires are not allowed. If you are unsure, just ask. This is also a 'leave nothing but footprints' campsite. We do not have trash removal.
There is a working rocket mass heater in the barn and it will be fired up and roaring between October and April.
Knitting and crocheting lessons
are yours for the asking.
Co-owner, William, may also be persuaded to show you some guitar licks.
Children 12 and under are discounted 50% off. Children under 2 are free.
At the edges of the property you can see neighbors' houses but campsites are secluded from the neighbors as well as from each other. All campsites are drive in but you may be driving across a mown field.
Sterling Nature Center (Great Blue Heron rookery!) and Sterling Renaissance Festival are each 4 miles away.
Gas station and farm store (Ontario Orchards -- great home-baked pies there!)
are each 3 miles away. Sterling Creek Canoe- Kayak Launch - 3.5 miles.
Fair Haven Beach State Park and Little Sodus Bay - 7.5 miles.
City of Oswego and NY State University - 6 miles. And, if you are of that persuasion, the nearest McDonald's and Subway
are 7 miles and Walmart is 10 miles away.
Because I could be anywhere on the property - or off! - and I would like to be available when you arrive, please advise me
if you know you will be arriving after 5 PM.
All revenue from camping goes back into the property to continue to improve your experience.
While we are open to winter camping, the farm road is on a hill that must be navigated to reach the campsites. In snowy or icy (or extremely muddy) conditions this may prove impossible for a typical vehicle and even give some 4-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicles some trouble. There is room at the bottom of the hill for off road parking for one vehicle. It would then require hiking up about 500 feet to reach campsites. Also, when the weather is dropping below freezing (which could be between late October -- early May), you are advised to bring your own water as water left overnight will freeze.
Thorndon Meadows acknowledges we are on native land originally inhabited by the Cayuga (Guyohkohnyoh – The People of the Great Swamp) of the Haudenosaunee
Confederacy who were scattered by European settlers in the early 1800’s.
We honor their stewardship and those who care for the land generations after.
This land is not ours, it is our turn, and we are grateful to share it with our guests.
We are committed to learning and protecting the land as its temporary caretakers.
We invite you to appreciate the land with us, all are welcome.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Spring lake retreat on the farm
2. Spring lake retreat on the farm
99%
(95)
16mi from Lysander · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land:Enjoy yourselves on this quiet Iittle farm with beautiful views. Bring a saw and cut your own firewood. Hike the mowed trails and enjoy the wildlife! There's water available if needed and one bathroom with just a sink and toilet accessible from outside.
If we are here you are more than welcome to interact with the farm animals..Bonnie Blue the horse, Gater Goat luke, and the cow's.
Just minutes from Port Bay , Fairhaven State
Park and Chimney Bluffs State park to the North and the Montezuma wildlife refuge to the south.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Birds Nest
3. Birds Nest
97%
(16)
17mi from Lysander · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to our semi-secluded campsite nestled at the edge of Montezuma Swamp Wildlife Refuge, where nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike will find a tranquil oasis to retreat and reconnect with the great outdoors.
Whether you're pitching a tent or parking your RV, our campsite offers the perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty. With a small pond nearby and excellent birdwatching opportunities, you'll be immersed in the sights and sounds of wildlife right from your campsite.
Unwind and enjoy the camping experience with amenities such as a picnic table and campfire ring, perfect for gathering around to share stories and roast marshmallows under the starry night sky. Feel free to explore the small trail through the woods, ideal for leisurely walks and nature hikes.
Located at the edge of Montezuma Swamp Wildlife Refuge, our campsite provides easy access to pristine natural surroundings and abundant wildlife. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, our campsite offers the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature at our semi-secluded campsite. Experience the beauty and serenity of Montezuma Swamp Wildlife Refuge and create lasting memories amidst the great outdoors.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Fair Haven Beach State Park
4. Fair Haven Beach State Park
95%
(11)
State park 15mi from Lysander · 214 sites
Fair Haven isn't an ocean beach, but it may as well be during the summer months.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cayuga Lake State Park
5. Cayuga Lake State Park
83%
(6)
State park 26mi from Lysander · 279 sites
A small park with expansive views of, and easy access to, Cayuga Lake.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Port Bay Campground & RV Park
6. Port Bay Campground & RV Park
100%
(10)
20mi from Lysander · 1 site
Nestled near the peaceful shores of Port Bay in Wolcott, our family-friendly campground offers beautiful walks to the lake, fun activities, and a relaxing atmosphere for campers of all ages. Enjoy quiet surroundings, plenty of sporting equipment for active guests, and a HUGE Pirate Ship Playground for younger campers.
A wooded trail to Lake Ontario is serene and ends at a beautiful pebble beach where you can walk along the shore or wade in the water. Kayak rentals are available.
Choose from spacious tent sites, RV spots, or cozy rental options depending on how you like to camp. Sites are level and close to amenities without feeling crowded. Many offer partial or full shade, and all provide the peaceful, natural atmosphere you’re looking for.
Nearby activities include:
State parks, the New York Renaissance Faire, campground events, wine tours, restaurants, golf courses, ice cream stops, Apple Country, and Oswego Speedway.
Amenities include:
Clean restrooms and hot showers, picnic tables and fire rings, walk-to-water access for wading or kayaking, fishing spots just a short drive down the bay, family-friendly open spaces, nearby boat launches, and convenient access to local shops and restaurants.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
1566 Q.C.A Quiet Country Acres
7. 1566 Q.C.A Quiet Country Acres
98%
(32)
26mi from Lysander · 1 site · Tent, RV
Retired dairy farm. Quiet country setting! 300 acres total with Grindstone Creek running thru it. Apx 3 miles to Interstate 81 and apx 3 miles Lake Ontario.
Close to snowmobile trails. 5 miles from the Salmon River! Easy travel distance to Syracuse, Watertown and Oswego.
Septic, water and electric hookup.
Closed for the months of December to March.
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
Wonderland Forest
8. Wonderland Forest
90%
(96)
27mi from Lysander · 99 sites · Tents, RVs
Wonderland Forest is located on 400 beautiful acres that overlook New York's Apple Valley. Camp Wonderland offers primitive camping sites.
Home to the historic Rattlesnake Gulf and The Blue Hole, along with other waterfalls and watering holes. Spend your days exploring!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!
9. Camp on the Organic Blueberry Pond!
94%
(25)
27mi from Lysander · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Grindstone Farm, a well-established organic farm in Upstate New York, near Lake Ontario and the famous Salmon River of Pulaski, NY. We specialize in premium organic produce, particularly our asparagus and blueberries. Our farm features a beautiful blueberry pond where we host campers, farm to table dinners, music festivals and events.
Our current camping area is a private rustic space with water views around our blueberry pond, tucked away from the main roads. We can accommodate RVs and also offer rustic cabins, although they have not yet been opened for the season. Currently, we welcome all car and tent campers. If interested in rustic cabin inquire about availability. We will always take special request and needs under consideration, so always feel free to reach out.
Amenities include flushing toilets, a covered pavilion with accessible grills, tenting sites, washing stations, a fire area, and during the summer months, kayaking and swimming. Local attractions and sites, if you choose to leave our little slice of heaven include.... Lake Ontario Beaches and kayaking waterways, Salmon River and Salmon River Fishing, and Salmon River Falls (beautiful 110 ft waterfall), with of course limitless day trips in every direction.
Consider us for your intimate camping excursions, when you seek just peace and nature, but also for large groups and celebrations. Join us as well, for our hosted events such as music, food, festivals, etc where events will be announced primarily on Instagram and Facebook.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Green Lakes State Park
10. Green Lakes State Park
86%
(7)
State park 27mi from Lysander · 139 sites
This upstate New York park has striking scenery and year-round adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Selkirk Shores State Park
11. Selkirk Shores State Park
100%
(3)
State park 27mi from Lysander · 170 sites
Wide open meadows, lush forest and bluffs overlooking Lake Ontario are just a FEW of our favorite things about Selkirk Shores State Park. The others? Well you can pitch your tent and have awesome water views from the campgrounds, toss your boat into the Salmon river for some stellar fishing and meandering, or head down to Sandy Island Beach State Park for a dip. Other things you can catch here include glimpses of spectacular migratory birds--all of which can be spotted while hiking or biking. And did we mention the sunsets? That's the cherry on top!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Fillmore Glen State Park
12. Fillmore Glen State Park
100%
(2)
State park 35mi from Lysander · 63 sites
Tucked in a lush, dense, wooded area, Fillmore Glen State Park will make you feel like you're in a fairy wonderland. Follow the entrance into the park and explore the hikes along the long narrow gorge. You will see ethereal views of five waterfalls dripping over mossy stone and when you're done take a dip in the stream-fed swimming pool. Come winter, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are permitted on the unplowed roads. The camping area sits along Dry Creek and when it comes to the sites, think wide open spaces. And should you like your woodsy never-never land with a side of homey comfort, Fillmore also offers a full service cabin.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Verona Beach State Park
13. Verona Beach State Park
State park 37mi from Lysander · 46 sites
Leave the hustle and bustle of daily life and step into pure relaxation at Verona Beach State Park. Spend the day on the beach soaking up the rays, explore the Woods and Wetland trail or trot down the horse trails; you’re sure to reconnect with Mother Nature. Hunters and anglers migrate to this spot, even during the winter months for some good ol' brew-fueled ice fishing.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Marvelous Mrs Maple
14. Marvelous Mrs Maple
99%
(39)
28mi from Lysander · 1 site
Orchard located on remote road 12 miles from the village of Skaneateles, in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. Located between Otisco and Skaneateles lakes, three miles from the state boat launch on Otisco Lake. Famous spot for bass and tiger muskies. Minutes from Beak & Skiff Concert Venue.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
Bliss Hill Farm RV Site
15. Bliss Hill Farm RV Site
100%
(21)
30mi from Lysander · 1 site
Welcome to Bliss Hill Farm—eight acres of gardens, orchards, bees, chickens, and wide-open skies just outside the charming village of Manlius, New York.
Whether you're passing through for the night or looking for a peaceful place to slow down, we hope you'll feel right at home here. Settle into our spacious driveway with electric and water hookups, then wander the property at your own pace. Depending on the season, you might find apple blossoms, buzzing honeybees, mushrooms tucked beneath the trees, fresh vegetables in the garden, or chickens happily roaming the farm.
Our three friendly Australian Shepherds—Kodi, Fenway, and Winni—will almost certainly be the first to welcome you (they take their hospitality very seriously).
If we're stocked, you're welcome to purchase fresh eggs, raw honey, seasonal mushrooms, or other small-batch farm products made right here at Bliss Hill Farm.
The sunsets from the top of the hill are one of our favorite parts of living here, and we hope you'll take a little time to enjoy them too.
We're conveniently located:
2 miles from the Village of Manlius
10 minutes from Green Lakes State Park
10 minutes from Cazenovia
20 minutes from downtown Syracuse
12 miles from I-90
7 miles from Route 20
Whether you're biking through Central New York, heading to the Adirondacks, or simply looking for a quiet overnight stop, we'd love to share our little corner of the world with you.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground
16. Junius Ponds Cabin and Campground
90%
(15)
31mi from Lysander · 46 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
If you’re looking for a peaceful campground setting with a family-friendly atmosphere, and tons of activities, then Junius Ponds Cabins & Campground is the perfect spot for you! Join us by pitching a tent, renting a cabin, or by parking your RV. We’ve got sites you will fall in love with after just one stay that will make you want to start a family tradition. Whether you are just passing through or planning a vacation with us you will not be disappointed with your stay.
We simply offer the best camping experience you can have within the Finger Lakes location, complete with camping amenities and a broad selection of camping activities. There is something to do for everyone, check out our activities for our different weekend events.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Fox Hollow Salmon River Camping
17. Fox Hollow Salmon River Camping
97%
(15)
31mi from Lysander · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Just a great location to go Salmon fishing or kick back & relax. ATV trails are also accessible from our property.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch your tent 5 minutes from the Salmon River, take a short walk to the river, fishing in the summer (June, July, August) for Small Mouth Bass, Atlantic Salmon, or a summer run Steelhead. September & October world class King Salmon, Coho Salmon, & Steelhead. Just a short 10 minute drive you can visit the Salmon River Fish hatchery & the Salmon River Falls. 15 minutes from Lake Ontario for lake fishing. 1 hour to the 1000 islands.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
Sunswick Farm
18. Sunswick Farm
100%
(137)
32mi from Lysander · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to our land.
Brooks Mullahy manages Sunswick Farm’s apiary, which includes 13 bee yards and over 200 hives. A bee yard is a collection of anywhere from 4 to 21 hives in one place, and our yards are located at the farm and on private properties throughout Cayuga, Cortland, and Onondaga Counties.
We are busy with our bees and at the same time want to share the wonders of our farm with folks so we are
very fortunate to have our neighbors Debbie Kahl and Tracy Yardley manage the HipCamp bookings on our behalf. Debbie and Tracy live very close and will
be your contact persons. Either one will be happy to answer your questions and will meet you when you arrive and introduce you to the your camping site.
It is our pleasure to host campers here. We hope you enjoy this piece of land as much as we do.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
Milk & Honey Homestead
19. Milk & Honey Homestead
100%
(10)
32mi from Lysander · 1 site
We are a small homestead with some goats, ducks and chickens, we live in an off grid Tiny cabin and rent out another tiny cabin. We are nestled comfortably in the woods. Road that goes through the woods and opens into picturesque meadow. Close to nature hikes, lakes and rivers for fishing. Perfect spot to unwind, enjoy some quiet time
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Cabin in the woods
20. Cabin in the woods
99%
(34)
32mi from Lysander · 1 site
The cabin is located in a remote area of Bear Swamp State Forest. It is about 5 miles from the nearest paved road but has seasonal roads that take you to the cabin. There are many close attractions like Skaneateles Lake and Carpenters Falls. The Cabin doesn’t have electricity or water but we do have a generator available. We do not have a shower or bathroom but we have an outhouse. We do ask people to bring their own gas if you want to run the generator and woods to make a fire. I highly recommend 4x4 vehicles but I been there in a civic and a mini van.
Pets
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Campfires
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Joseph
5 days ago
13 ft travel trailer
Another great stay at this lovely site, great location, all hookups work great and nice and quiet (minus the rooster next door! 😂). Looking forward to enjoying this site again next time I’m up in the finger lakes.
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Rich
1 week ago
29 ft travel trailer
This site is in a great location and I would recommend it to anyone visiting the Finger Lakes. The views are amazing and it’s a perfect place to rest after a day of exploring.
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C.
1 week ago
36 ft travel trailer
With pets
Perfect place if you need a peaceful nature reset, couples retreat, or family get away. Plenty of secluded space to roam through the nature, ride bikes, and watch the wildlife with out having to leave the site. Its a beautiful place to see the stars if thats your thing. The leaves were just changing color its going to beautiful in a few weeks.
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Landon
1 week ago
Tent
Great place to stay. Nice and private. Would definitely stay here again.
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Sophia
1 week ago
Tent
Group trip
We had a great time; the site was beautiful and well maintained. There's quite a few nice hikes to do close by and down the road there was a beautiful waterfall
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Theresa
2 weeks ago
Tent
Experience of a life time! Tommy and his wife Laura were amazing hosts. And meeting there cows was a delight. Absolutely wonderful camping trip my only regret is I didn’t get to stay longer. Our campsite site had perfect shade and a cute little bench. Trails just feet away. I would recommend this to anyone who loving camping and cows! Willow was adorable! JJ and lil squirt might be my favorite though!
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Gabriella
2 weeks ago
Tent
Anne was so accommodating and lovely. Such a cute and whimsical property. I would definitely visit again!
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Nichole
2 weeks ago
With kids
It was such a private secluded weekend! The cabin is perfect! There was a fire pit and chairs there. I’m ready to book again. Highly recommend !
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Anthony
2 weeks ago
40 ft travel trailer
With pets
This land was an amazing place for tent or RV. They have very photogenic spots- which are along manicured ponds and in a pretty field surrounded by trees- and the RV spots. The spots were all wonderful and fun to explore (easy walking paths and a few real hiking trails) but the RV plot was amazing. This was one of the best spots we have got off Hipcamp in our cross country journey so far. It was buried in the trees and opened up to a big secluded area, half gravel and half grass with a concrete platform and full hookups. Not too buggy, no noise, beautiful scenery, and private- too good to be true! No issues the entire time we were there, host came by and gave us some directions around town and on the land and was very kind. It made for a good location. Its close to multiple little grocery stores and small downtown areas, and a short drive to Syracuse. We were there for 2 weeks and I wish we could have stayed for longer. Bookmarking this place for another season!
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Hannah
2 weeks ago
21 ft travel trailer
With pets
Lovely quiet spot close to both Geneva and Seneca Falls. Full hookups, we had a wonderful visit!
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Lisa
3 weeks ago
Tent
My son and I are getting into hammock camping and this place exceeded expectations by miles. The location is stunning, the site is incredibly private and Emory was a wonderful host. We bought some farm fresh veggies and meat from him and cooked some delicious meals with them. The highlight of our trip was when we "borrowed" one of his alpacas and hung out with it at the site. Can't wait to return!
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Ryann
3 weeks ago
19 ft Class B
Super cool place . Lots of local residents also live on the campground. They have a heated outdoor pool, showers and bathrooms. The place is well maintained and overall felt comfortable and safe . Lots of people like to stare at you tho lol
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Nate
3 weeks ago
Tent
With kids
Great spot to camp with our 2 year old twins for their first time. A nice mix of being out in the woods while also only being 10 minutes from a Walmart when your griddle stops working.
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Warren
August 2026
25 ft travel trailer
Peaceful and quiet! A great place to get away from all the distractions and relax. Well maintained. Not far from parks with beaches and walking trails. Stores and places to eat close by as well. Will be back for sure.
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Bill
August 2026
Tent
My daughter and I tent camped for the weekend while in town for a concert. The view from the hill was beautiful at sunset! We'd definitely stay again!
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Carol
August 2026
19 ft campervan
With pets
Tommy & his wife were great. Not only was the spot beautiful, but they let my granddaughter feed a baby cow & go for a ride on one of their horses!
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Emma
August 2026
Tent
Bramble Hill was easy to find, very spacious, with gorgeous views of the rolling countryside- and the stars were incredible!!! i would absolutely come back :) make sure to get firewood ahead of time!
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Ronnie
August 2026
Tent
Group trip
Great spot to camp close to the Renaissance festival. Val was very responsive and accommodating. The site was perfect for our larger group. I really loved the sunrise view from my tent in the morning.
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Hallie
August 2026
Tent
We had such a lovely time staying on Tommy’s farm. The property is really beautiful, clean and peaceful. Tommy is a great host- so accommodating and attentive. We had everything we needed- a bathroom, access to firewood, and water to wash our dishes. And the farm animals are super cute too! We will definitely be back to stay again in the future :)
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Destiny
August 2026
Tent
This hip-camp had so many wonderful surprises! The host was just lovely he took us on a tour of his land, we got to meet his cows, goats and his horse! Our camp area was just gorgeous, it was up on a hill so great landscape views, flat ground for our tent set up, a table was there, a fire pit, a clean private bathroom is a few minute walk, or quick drive away. At night we were able to do some real stargazing, shooting stars, a meteor shower it was incredible. During the day we went to Chimney Bluffs state park, we found a Beautiful place to swim in lake ontario, we went to a few antique shops, then hit up a concert at paper mill island 35 minutes away. As two people who also host our own hip-camp and an Airbnb this was a perfect getaway for us and we will be back!
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