Green Bank Observatory
Green Bank, WV
The world’s largest fully steerable radio telescope, in a radio quiet zone where phones and wifi are restricted. Switch devices off before entering the site.
The Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia, operates the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope, the world's largest fully steerable radio telescope. The dish measures 330 by 360 feet (100 by 110 meters), the telescope weighs about 8,400 tons (7,600 metric tons) and it was dedicated in 2000. The observatory lies in the National Radio Quiet Zone, an area of roughly 13,000 square miles (33,700 square kilometers) established in 1958.
Prepare before your visit: turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and cellular data on your phone, then power the device off completely, or leave it in your car. Digital cameras, including smartphone cameras, are allowed only around the Science Center and the observation deck; film cameras can be used throughout the public areas. You can explore the grounds on your own. Site tours last about an hour and can sell out, so book ahead. According to the observatory, the Science Center is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (as of October 2026).
With the smaller 85-foot telescope (85-1), Frank Drake began Project Ozma in 1960, the first search for radio signals from extraterrestrial civilizations.
- Nearest town
- Green Bank, WV
- Category
- Roadside oddities
- GPS
- 38.4331, -79.8398
- Editor's pick
- ★
Hours, fees and access change. Confirm with the operator or park before you go.
Good to know
Best time to go
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. Cold, short days in December–February. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Sources
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
Campsites nearby
- East Fork Campground & Horse HotelCampsite8 mi from Green Bank ObservatoryTentsCaravansDrinking waterShowersToiletsWaste disposalWi-Fi
- Island CampgroundCampsite12 mi from Green Bank Observatory
- Kumbrabow State Forest CampgroundCampsite20 mi from Green Bank Observatory
- Marlinton Creek & Trail CampgroundMotorhome stopover20 mi from Green Bank ObservatoryMotorhomes
- Back Ridge Shadows campgroundCampsite22 mi from Green Bank Observatory
- Hidden Valley CampgroundCampsite23 mi from Green Bank Observatory · 31 pitchesWaste disposal
All campsites in West Virginia · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Green Bank Observatory?
Green Bank Observatory is in Green Bank, WV, at GPS 38.4331, -79.8398. It is about 9 mi from Snowshoe.
Can you camp near Green Bank Observatory?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is East Fork Campground & Horse Hotel, about 8 mi away; within 25 mi there are 14 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Green Bank Observatory?
Green Bank Observatory is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: West Virginia highlands: Dolly Sods to Cass.
What is there to see near Green Bank Observatory?
Places worth a stop nearby: Cass Scenic Railroad (5 mi), Spruce Knob (25 mi), Seneca Rocks (38 mi) and Staunton Historic Downtown (46 mi).
When is the best time to visit Green Bank Observatory?
The most pleasant months are usually May–June and September. Still fine, with some compromises, in July–August and October. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)