Very Large Array
Datil, NM
Twenty-seven giant radio telescope dishes lined up on the Plains of San Agustin. A visitor center and self-guided walk lead to the base of one.
The Very Large Array (VLA) is a radio telescope facility of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory on the Plains of San Agustin in western New Mexico, about 50 miles (80 km) west of Socorro and roughly two hours' drive from Albuquerque. Twenty-seven dish antennas, each about 24 m (80 feet) across, stand here in a windswept, remote landscape at around 2,100 m (7,000 feet).
The visitor center shows a documentary narrated by Jodie Foster and exhibits on radio astronomy. A self-guided walk of about 0.5 miles (800 m) takes you to the foot of one of the antennas; part of it is wheelchair accessible. Guided tours are offered on certain dates.
The route runs on US 60 from Socorro through Magdalena, then NM 52 and NM 166; all access roads are paved. There is no food on site. In winter, snow or ice can close the site, and in high summer afternoon thunderstorms are likely. Check opening hours and admission in advance.
- Nearest town
- Datil, NM
- Category
- Roadside oddities
- GPS
- 34.0784, -107.6184
- 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 April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, September and November. Hot in June–August. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)
Featured in these trip guides
Nearby
.jpg){kind=link}
Campsites nearby
- Datil Well Recreation Area CampgroundCampsite15 mi from Very Large Array
- Bear Trap CampgroundCampsite15 mi from Very Large Array
- Hughes Mill CampgroundCampsite16 mi from Very Large Array
All campsites in New Mexico · Campsite data: © OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL 1.0 · Updated October 3, 2026
FAQs
Where is Very Large Array?
Very Large Array is in Datil, NM, at GPS 34.0784, -107.6184. It is about 69 mi from Gila Cliff Dwellings.
Can you camp near Very Large Array?
Yes. The nearest campsite listed in OpenStreetMap is Datil Well Recreation Area Campground, about 15 mi away; within 25 mi there are 3 campsites and motorhome stopovers.
Which road trips pass Very Large Array?
Very Large Array is a stop on these CampingSpirit trip guides: Gila Wilderness: cliff dwellings, a catwalk and the Very Large Array.
What is there to see near Very Large Array?
Places worth a stop nearby: Acoma Sky City (57 mi), La Ventana Natural Arch (57 mi), Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument (69 mi) and El Morro National Monument (78 mi).
When is the best time to visit Very Large Array?
The most pleasant months are usually April–May and October. Still fine, with some compromises, in March, September and November. (Estimate from long-term temperature averages, terrain and pass seasons)