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Discover the Beauty and Diversity of Palmetto State Park

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1 Discover the Beauty and Diversity of Palmetto State Park
Texas Palmetto State Park
Image: Larry D. Moore, CC BY-SA 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Introduction – Texas Palmetto State Park

Brief Overview of Texas Palmetto State Park

Texas Palmetto State Park is a natural oasis located in Gonzales County, Texas, about an hour southeast of Austin. It covers over 270 acres and features a diverse array of flora and fauna, including the park’s namesake plant, the dwarf palmetto. The San Marcos River flows through the park, providing visitors with a picturesque setting for swimming, fishing, and paddling. The park also boasts several hiking trails, a playground, and campsites for those who wish to stay overnight. With its unique combination of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, Palmetto State Park is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking an escape from city life.

Importance of Texas Palmetto State Park

  1. Palmetto State Park is an important natural resource in Texas for several reasons. It is a valuable habitat for a diverse array of plant and animal species, including the endangered Texas blind salamander, which is found only in a few select locations in Texas. The park’s dwarf palmetto plant is also rare in Texas and serves as an indicator of the park’s unique ecosystem.
  2. Palmetto State Park is an important recreational resource for the surrounding community and visitors to the area. The San Marcos River and its associated wetlands provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking, while the park’s hiking trails offer a chance to explore the surrounding woodland and view native wildlife. The park’s campsites also provide a convenient and affordable option for families and outdoor enthusiasts looking to spend a night or two in nature.
  3. Palmetto State Park holds historical significance as one of the first state parks established in Texas in the 1930s. The park’s CCC-built structures and other historic features provide a glimpse into the region’s history and the conservation efforts that have shaped it. Overall, Palmetto State Park is a valuable natural, recreational, and historical resource for Texas, and its preservation is crucial for future generations to enjoy.

General location of Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park is located in Gonzales County, Texas, in the southern part of the state. It is situated approximately 4 miles southwest of the small town of Gonzales and is accessible by car via State Highway 183 or State Highway 80. The park is roughly equidistant from Austin and San Antonio, two of the largest cities in Texas, and can be reached by car in approximately one hour from each city. The park’s location in the heart of Texas makes it an easily accessible destination for both locals and tourists alike, while its rural setting and proximity to the San Marcos River offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

History of Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. In 1933, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) established a camp in the area and began construction on the park’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and buildings. The park was officially opened to the public in 1936, making it one of the first state parks in Texas.

During the 1930s and 1940s, the park was a popular destination for local residents and visitors from across Texas. The CCC-built structures, including a refectory and stone picnic tables, were a testament to the conservation efforts of the time and remain a hallmark of the park today.

In the following decades, Palmetto State Park underwent various improvements and expansions, including the construction of hiking trails, campsites, and a playground. In 1977, the park was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service, recognizing its unique ecological features and significance to Texas history.

Founding of Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park was founded in the early 1930s as part of a larger effort to establish state parks throughout Texas. The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program established during the Great Depression, played a significant role in the park’s founding by providing labor and resources for its construction.

In 1933, a CCC camp was established in the area, and work began on the park’s infrastructure, including roads, trails, and buildings. The park was officially opened to the public in 1936, making it one of the first state parks in Texas.

The park’s namesake, the dwarf palmetto plant, was a significant factor in its establishment. The plant is rare in Texas and serves as an indicator of the park’s unique ecosystem, which also includes the San Marcos River and its associated wetlands.

Today, Palmetto State Park remains a beloved destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and its founding by the CCC is recognized as an important chapter in the park’s history and the larger conservation movement in Texas.

Historical significance of Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park has significant historical significance as one of the first state parks established in Texas during the 1930s. The park’s infrastructure, including roads, trails, and buildings, were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), a New Deal program created during the Great Depression.

The park’s CCC-built structures, including a refectory and stone picnic tables, are a testament to the conservation efforts of the time and remain a hallmark of the park today. These structures provide a glimpse into the park’s history and the larger conservation movement in Texas.

In 1977, Palmetto State Park was designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service, recognizing its unique ecological features and significance to Texas history.

Palmetto State Park holds significant historical significance as a testament to the conservation efforts of the 1930s and 1940s and as a valuable natural and recreational resource for Texas residents and visitors to the area.

Major events and milestones of Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park has a rich history of major events and milestones that have shaped its development into the beloved natural and recreational resource it is today.

      • 1933: Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) establishes a camp in the area and begins construction on park infrastructure.

      • 1936: Palmetto State Park officially opens to the public as one of the first state parks in Texas.

      • 1940s: CCC-built structures, including a refectory and stone picnic tables, become popular features of the park.

      • 1977: Palmetto State Park is designated a National Natural Landmark by the National Park Service, recognizing its unique ecological features and significance to Texas history.

      • 1998: The park experiences severe flooding from the San Marcos River, causing significant damage to park facilities and infrastructure.

      • 2015: The park celebrates its 80th anniversary with a range of events and activities.

      • Present day: Palmetto State Park continues to be a beloved destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park’s rich history and unique ecological features continue to be celebrated and preserved for future generations to enjoy.

Natural Features of Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park is renowned for its unique natural features, which include a variety of plant and animal life and a range of geological formations.

The San Marcos River runs through the park, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The river is surrounded by wetlands, which support a variety of plant and animal species, including cypress trees, Spanish moss, and alligators.

The park is also home to the dwarf palmetto, a rare plant species found only in a few locations in Texas. The plant’s distinctive fan-like leaves and berries can be seen throughout the park.

Geologically, Palmetto State Park is situated on the Balcones Fault, which runs through central Texas. The fault has caused unique rock formations and created the park’s limestone cliffs and caves, which can be explored by visitors.

Palmetto State Park’s natural features make it a unique and valuable resource for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities to explore and learn about the diverse natural world of Texas.

Description of the landscape and environment at Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park is located in the Gulf Coastal Plains region of Texas and encompasses approximately 270 acres of diverse landscape and environment.

The park’s landscape includes a range of habitats, including wetlands, riparian forests, grasslands, and limestone cliffs. The San Marcos River runs through the park, providing a unique riparian habitat that supports a variety of plant and animal species.

The park’s most distinctive natural feature is the dwarf palmetto, a rare plant species that thrives in the wetland areas of the park. The plant’s distinctive fan-like leaves and berries are a hallmark of the park’s environment.

In addition to the dwarf palmetto, the park is home to a variety of other plant species, including cypress trees, live oaks, and wildflowers. The park’s diverse plant life supports a variety of animal species, including alligators, river otters, white-tailed deer, and a variety of bird species.

The park’s environment is shaped by the Balcones Fault, which runs through central Texas and has created unique geological formations in the park, including limestone cliffs and caves that can be explored by visitors.

Palmetto State Park’s diverse landscape and environment make it a unique and valuable resource for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities to explore and learn about the natural world of Texas.

Notable flora and fauna at Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting a rich diversity of plant and animal species. Among the most notable of these are the park’s unique flora and fauna, which play an important role in the park’s ecosystem and provide visitors with a rich array of wildlife to observe.

One of the most distinctive plant species in the park is the dwarf palmetto. This low-growing plant, which thrives in the park’s wetland areas, has fan-like leaves and produces bright red berries in the fall. The dwarf palmetto is a rare plant species found in only a few locations in Texas, and its presence in the park makes it a unique and valuable resource for researchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

In addition to the dwarf palmetto, the park is home to a variety of other plant species, including cypress trees, live oaks, and wildflowers. The park’s diverse plant life supports a rich array of animal species, from white-tailed deer and river otters to a variety of bird species.

Perhaps the most famous animal species in the park is the American alligator. These large reptiles can be spotted sunning themselves on the banks of the San Marcos River, which runs through the park. Visitors are advised to maintain a safe distance from the alligators, which can grow up to 14 feet in length and are best observed from a safe distance.

Other notable animal species in the park include the nine-banded armadillo, the Texas tortoise, and a variety of snake species, including the western diamondback rattlesnake.

Overall, Palmetto State Park’s diverse flora and fauna make it a valuable resource for researchers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the rich natural world of Texas. Whether you’re interested in plants, animals, or both, the park offers a rich array of wildlife to discover and explore.

Geographical highlights, including the San Marcos River and the Ottine Swamp at Texas Palmetto State Park

Palmetto State Park is home to several unique geographical features that make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Among the most notable of these features are the San Marcos River and the Ottine Swamp.

The San Marcos River runs through the park, providing visitors with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. The river is surrounded by a unique riparian habitat that supports a variety of plant and animal species, including cypress trees, Spanish moss, and alligators. The clear, spring-fed water of the San Marcos River is also a popular destination for tubing and snorkeling.

The Ottine Swamp is another distinctive geographical feature of the park. This wetland area is home to the dwarf palmetto, a rare plant species found only in a few locations in Texas. The swamp also supports a variety of bird species, including herons and egrets, and provides a unique habitat for aquatic species such as turtles and alligators.

The park is also situated on the Balcones Fault, which runs through central Texas and has created unique geological formations in the park, including limestone cliffs and caves that can be explored by visitors. The park’s diverse landscape and environment make it a unique and valuable resource for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities to explore and learn about the natural world of Texas.

Things to Do in Palmetto State Park

Explore the Ottine Swamp

The Ottine Swamp is an integral part of Palmetto State Park. You can learn more about this natural feature by clicking on this Ottine Swamp link.

Enjoy the Scenery – Hiking the Palmetto State Park Trails

Whether you are enjoying a campsite at this Texas campground, or a day trip to experience nature, hiking the trails at this state park is a relaxing experience. Learn more about the hiking trails by clicking on this Hiking at Palmetto State Park link.

Have Fun Catching Fish at Palmetto State Park

Fishing is a great activity to supplement your camping or day trip to the park. Learn more about fishing here by clicking on this Palmetto State Park Fishing – Enjoy the Adventure link.

Options for Swimming at Palmetto State Park

After you’ve been camping or hiking for a while, a nice swim can put the perfect touch on your day. To learn more about swimming here click on this Swimming Texas Palmetto State Park – Dive into Fun link.

RV Camping at Palmetto State Park

Camping comfortably in your home away from home is possible when you bring your RV to this State Park. Learn more about RV camping at this park by clicking on this RV Camping Texas Palmetto State Park link.

Tent Camping at Palmetto State Park

Our webpage at Tent Camping – Palmetto State Park provides detailed information about tent camping at Palmetto State Park in Texas. The article describes the park’s location, features, and amenities, as well as recommendations for things to do in the area. The page is a useful resource for anyone interested in tent camping in Texas and looking for information on Palmetto State Park.

Trail Biking at Palmetto State Park

Our webpage about trail biking at Palmetto State Park is a guide to trail biking at Palmetto State Park in Texas. The article describes the park’s trail system, which includes a mix of singletrack and doubletrack trails that wind through various terrains, including forests, prairies, and along the San Marcos River. The article provides tips for bikers, including recommended gear and safety precautions, as well as recommendations for specific trails to try based on skill level and personal preferences. The page is a helpful resource for anyone interested in trail biking at Palmetto State Park.

Bird Watching at Palmetto State Park

Our web page about birdwatching at Palmetto State Park, Texas provides information on the park’s location, habitat, and bird species found in the area. The article also offers tips for birdwatching at the park and highlights some of the best spots to see birds. The article serves as a useful guide for anyone interested in birdwatching at Palmetto State Park.

Visitor Information, Questions, and Answers

Is there a playground at Palmetto State Park?

This beautiful park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. One of the highlights of the park for families with young children is the playground.

The playground at Palmetto State Park is located near the picnic area, making it the perfect spot for families to take a break and let the kids play. The playground features a variety of play equipment suitable for children of different ages, including swings, slides, and climbing structures. The equipment is well-maintained and safe for children to play on.

In addition to the playground, Palmetto State Park offers plenty of other activities to keep families entertained. The park has several hiking trails that wind through the beautiful Texas Hill Country landscape. Visitors can also fish in the San Marcos River, which runs through the park. And for those who want to spend the night, the park has campsites and cabins available for rent.

The playground at Palmetto State Park is just one of the many reasons why this park is a great destination for families. With its beautiful scenery, variety of activities, and well-maintained facilities, Palmetto State Park is a great place to make memories with your loved ones.

Where can I find trail maps for Palmetto State Park?

The Texas Parks and Wildlife website provides the following trail maps for you to download:

Map of Palmetto State Park
Trail map
Interactive Trails Map

Palmetto State Park Hours

Palmetto State Park in Texas is open daily from 8:00 am until 10:00 pm. These hours apply to both the park’s day-use area and overnight camping facilities. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call ahead for any changes in hours due to seasonal variations or other factors.

Palmetto State Park Entrance Fee

Palmetto State Park in Texas charges an entrance fee of $5 per person for adults over the age of 12. Children 12 and under enter for free. The park also offers annual passes for $70, which allow unlimited entry for up to four adults in the same vehicle. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call ahead for any changes to the entrance fee structure or any discounts that may apply.

Can you swim in the San Marcos River at Palmetto State Park?

Yes, visitors can swim in the San Marcos River at Palmetto State Park in Texas. The park has a designated swimming area in the river that is safe for swimming and is popular with visitors during the summer months. However, visitors are advised to exercise caution while swimming in the river and to follow any posted rules or warnings, as the river’s conditions can vary depending on weather and water flow.

Are there picnic areas at Palmetto State Park?

Yes, there are several picnic areas at Palmetto State Park in Texas. The park has a large picnic pavilion that can be reserved for groups, as well as numerous picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Many of these picnic areas are located near the playground, river, or hiking trails, making them convenient spots to take a break and enjoy a meal. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks, as there are no food vendors within the park.

Can you rent canoes or kayaks at Palmetto State Park?

Yes, visitors can rent canoes and kayaks at Palmetto State Park in Texas. The park offers rentals from its on-site concessionaire, Palmetto State Park Paddling, which is open on weekends and holidays during the summer months. Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks by the hour or for a full day and explore the San Marcos River, which runs through the park. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season, and visitors are advised to check the park’s website for rental rates and availability.

What are the facilities like at Palmetto State Park?

Palmetto State Park in Texas has a range of facilities for visitors to enjoy. These include campsites, cabins, picnic areas, a playground, hiking trails, and a designated swimming area in the San Marcos River. The park also has restrooms and showers, a park store, and a concessionaire that offers canoe and kayak rentals during the summer months. The facilities are well-maintained and suitable for individuals, families, and groups, and visitors are advised to check the park’s website or call ahead for any information about specific facilities or services.

What other parks are near Palmetto State Park?

There are several parks near Palmetto State Park in Texas that visitors may also enjoy. These include Lockhart State Park, which is located about 30 minutes away and offers hiking, camping, and a nine-hole golf course, and Gonzales Memorial Museum and Park, which is located about 15 minutes away and features a historic log cabin, a playground, and picnic facilities. Other nearby parks include Bastrop State Park, Buescher State Park, and Guadalupe River State Park, all of which are located within a one-hour drive from Palmetto State Park and offer a range of outdoor recreational opportunities.

What towns are near Palmetto State Park?

There are several towns near Palmetto State Park in Texas that visitors may want to explore. Gonzales, which is located about 15 minutes away, is the closest town and offers a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, including the Gonzales Memorial Museum and the historic Gonzales Courthouse. Luling, located about 25 minutes away, is known for its barbecue restaurants and historic downtown district, while Lockhart, located about 30 minutes away, is famous for its barbecue and also features several historic buildings and museums. Other nearby towns include San Marcos, Seguin, and New Braunfels, all of which are located within a one-hour drive from Palmetto State Park and offer a variety of cultural, recreational, and entertainment opportunities.

What are some things to do near Palmetto State Park?

There are several things to do near Palmetto State Park in Texas. Visitors can explore the nearby towns of Gonzales, Luling, and Lockhart, which offer a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or bike the trails at Lockhart State Park or Buescher State Park, both of which are located within a one-hour drive from Palmetto State Park. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Guadalupe River and stop at Guadalupe River State Park to swim, tube, or kayak. The historic city of San Antonio, with its iconic River Walk and historic Alamo site, is also located within a two-hour drive from the park and offers a range of cultural and entertainment options.

Are there any caves near Palmetto State Park?

Yes, there are several caves near Palmetto State Park in Texas. The most well-known cave in the area is the Wonder Cave, which is located about 15 minutes away from the park and offers guided tours that take visitors through its beautiful underground formations. The Caverns of Sonora, which is located about 90 minutes away, is another popular cave system that features stunning rock formations, underground lakes, and guided tours. Visitors are advised to check the cave’s website or call ahead for tour schedules, rates, and availability, as well as for any restrictions or requirements.

Does Palmetto State Park host any events or festivals?

Yes, Palmetto State Park in Texas hosts several events and festivals throughout the year. These events include guided nature walks, bird-watching tours, star-gazing programs, and educational programs for children. The park also hosts several special events, such as the annual Spring Fling and Fall Festival, which feature live music, food, games, and activities for the whole family. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or social media pages for information on upcoming events and festivals.

Are there any annual events at Palmetto State Park?

Yes, Palmetto State Park in Texas hosts several annual events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the annual Spring Fling and Fall Festival, which features live music, food, games, and activities for the whole family. The park also hosts several guided nature walks, bird-watching tours, star-gazing programs, and educational programs for children throughout the year. Other events may include ranger-led hikes, campfire programs, and special events during holidays such as Halloween and Christmas. Visitors are advised to check the park’s website or social media pages for information on upcoming events and festivals.

What types of birds can you see in Palmetto State Park?

Palmetto State Park, located in Gonzales County, Texas, is home to a diverse range of bird species that can be observed throughout the year. With its mix of hardwood forests, marshes, and the San Marcos River, the park provides a variety of habitats for birds to thrive. Visitors can explore the park’s trails and waterways to catch a glimpse of these feathered residents.

One of the most common birds found in the park is the great blue heron, a tall, long-necked wading bird that can often be seen stalking fish in the river. The park is also home to several species of woodpeckers, including the red-bellied, downy, and pileated woodpeckers. The park’s dense woods provide a perfect habitat for these birds, which are often heard before they are seen.

Other bird species that visitors can spot in the park include the black vulture, turkey vulture, and Mississippi kite, all of which are migratory birds that can be seen soaring in the sky. The park’s marshes and wetlands are home to a variety of waterfowl, including the American coot, mallard duck, and great egret.

In addition to these birds, visitors may also see the barred owl, Carolina chickadee, eastern bluebird, and many more. The park’s diverse bird population provides an exciting opportunity for birdwatchers of all levels to observe and appreciate these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.

Visitors are reminded to respect the park’s wildlife and to keep a safe distance from the birds. Binoculars and a birding field guide can be helpful tools for identifying the different species. Birders are also encouraged to share their sightings with the park and to report any rare or unusual sightings to help with bird conservation efforts.

Is there a butterfly garden at Palmetto State Park?

There is no information indicating that there is a butterfly garden specifically at Palmetto State Park in Texas. However, the park’s diverse habitats, including its wildflower meadows, wooded areas, and riverside vegetation, provide opportunities for visitors to observe various butterfly species throughout the year. Visitors are encouraged to keep a respectful distance from the butterflies and other wildlife in the park, as well as to help preserve their habitats by avoiding trampling or damaging the plants they depend on.

What types of reptiles can you find in Palmetto State Park?

Palmetto State Park in Texas is home to a variety of reptiles, ranging from snakes and turtles to lizards and alligators. The park’s diverse habitats, including its wetlands, rivers, and woodlands, provide a range of environments for these reptiles to thrive. Visitors to the park may encounter common snake species such as the diamondback water snake, rat snake, and coral snake, as well as various types of lizards, including the green anole and the Texas spiny lizard. Additionally, the park is home to several turtle species, such as the red-eared slider and the softshell turtle. Visitors are advised to keep a safe distance from these animals and to avoid handling or disturbing them.

Can you see any endangered species at Palmetto State Park?

There are no known endangered species that are regularly seen at Palmetto State Park in Texas. However, the park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several bird and reptile species, that visitors can observe and appreciate. Additionally, the park’s diverse habitats, such as its wetlands and woodlands, provide important habitats for a variety of plant and animal species, some of which may be threatened or endangered. Visitors are encouraged to respect the park’s wildlife and to help preserve their habitats by staying on designated trails and avoiding damaging or disturbing natural areas.

What kind of plants and animals can you find in Palmetto State Park?

Palmetto State Park, located in the heart of Texas, is a prime destination for nature lovers. The park is home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including several rare and unique species.

One of the most distinctive plant species found in the park is the dwarf palmetto, which gives the park its name. This plant is a type of palm that is only found in a few areas of Texas and Louisiana, and it is the only palm species native to Texas. The park is also home to a variety of wildflowers, including bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and black-eyed Susans, which bloom throughout the spring and summer months.

Palmetto State Park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 bird species recorded within its boundaries. Visitors can spot a wide range of birds, including herons, egrets, woodpeckers, warblers, and hawks. The park’s diverse habitats, which include wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands, provide important nesting and feeding areas for these birds.

In addition to birds, visitors can also observe a variety of reptile species in the park, such as turtles, lizards, and snakes. The park is home to several species of snake, including the Texas coral snake, which is one of the most venomous snakes in the state. Visitors are advised to stay on designated trails and be cautious when hiking in snake habitats.

Other wildlife that can be found in Palmetto State Park includes white-tailed deer, armadillos, squirrels, and raccoons. Visitors can also explore the park’s San Marcos River, which is home to a variety of fish and aquatic species, such as bass, catfish, and turtles.

This State Park offers visitors the chance to experience a diverse range of plant and animal life, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

What Native American tribes lived in the area around Palmetto State Park?

The area around Palmetto State Park in Texas has a long history of human habitation, dating back thousands of years. The park’s location is within the traditional homelands of several Native American tribes, including the Tonkawa, Karankawa, and Apache. These tribes had a deep connection to the land and the natural resources of the area, using them for food, medicine, and cultural practices. Visitors to the park can learn more about the indigenous peoples of the region through interpretive programs and exhibits at the park’s headquarters and visitor center.

Are there any historical landmarks at Palmetto State Park?

While Palmetto State Park in Texas is primarily known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, there are also some historical landmarks and points of interest within the park. One of these is the CCC Refectory Building, which was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and now serves as the park’s headquarters and visitor center. Additionally, the park has several hiking trails that pass by old homestead sites and abandoned farmhouses, providing a glimpse into the region’s early settlement history. Visitors can also explore the remnants of an old gristmill and dam on the San Marcos River, which was once an important economic and social hub in the area.

 

 

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