While most people associate hippies with California and Colorado, Illinois is actually the most hippie state in the nation, and the 12 things listed below prove it. From our appreciation for nature and freshness to our general daily practices, we're all about peace, love, and joy.

Try to deny it, but Illinois is an organic, natural oasis of tranquility and beauty. Scroll on for more details.

1. We love to sleep outside.

Illinois is full of campgrounds that allow you to sleep under the stars. Whether you want to stay on the beach or in the forest, this hippie state can accommodate you.

2. We prefer to be barefoot.

Nothing is more satisfying that walking through the grass barefoot. It's the natural way to be, and we prefer the feeling of soft grass to memory foam.

3. Illinois recycles.

In just about every town and city in this hippie state, people are recycling to help save our environment. We're definitely all about re-purposing or upcycling.

4. We preserve our nature.

Illinois is riddled with nature preserves. The Shawnee National Forest takes up the southern portion of the state, and spots like the Des Plaines River and Burlington Prairie Nature Preserves speckle the north.

5. We grow our own food.

About 85 percent of Illinois is farmland. In addition to getting produce from local farmers, many even choose to grow their own fruits and vegetables in their backyard.

6. We love farmers markets.

Shopping local definitely makes Illinois a hippie state. Preferable to trying to get fresh food at the supermarket, most Illinoisans would rather visit a fresh fruit or veggie stand.

7. We prefer natural products.

Sometimes sold at farmers markets, natural and organic skin care and beauty products are very popular in Illinois. The lovely scents of lavender, patchouli, and tea tree abound.

8. We love spending time in gardens.

Being around nature is one of our favorite things in the world to do in Illinois. There are gardens and conservatories all over the state to help locals get back to nature.

9. We wear colorful clothing.

Just look around. Illinoisans love color just like any nonconforming, free-thinking hippie. The brighter the better.

10. We host many music festivals.

Illinois is home to a wealth of music festivals from Summer Camp to Spring Awakening. Sitting outside, listening to music, dancing, and drinking are all the best things about being a hippie in Illinois.

11. We love yoga.

Yoga studios are all over the state. You can even find groups that meet in beautiful spaces like parks and gardens. It's the best way to meditate and connect with the earth all at once.

12. We're happier than any other state.

Another reason we're the best hippie state in America is that our citizens are tranquil and joyous. With so many farmers markets, yoga studios, nature preserves, and places to camp, this is the best place for any free spirit to call home.

Bonus: A 13th reason Illinois is a place for hippies is because we're home to the most hippie town in America.

What else about Illinois makes us the best hippie state in America? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!