Getting Around
Socorro County is best explored by car due to its vast landscapes and limited public transportation.
New Mexico, United States
City
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Socorro County (Spanish: Condado de Socorro) is a county in the U.S. state of New Mexico. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 16,595. The county seat is Socorro. The county was formed in 1852 as one of the original nine counties of New Mexico Territory. Socorro was originally the name given to a Native American village (see: Puebloan peoples) by Don Juan de Oñate in 1598. Having received vitally needed food and assistance from the native population, Oñate named the pueblo Socorro ("succor" in English). Socorro County is home to multiple scientific research institutions including New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory and its associated Very Large Array, the Magdalena Ridge Observatory, and the Langmuir Laboratory for Atmospheric Research. Federal public lands in Socorro County include parts of the Cibola National Forest, the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Socorro Field Office, parts of the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, and parts of the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail.
Socorro County (Spanish: Condado de Socorro) is a county in the U.S. state of New Mexico. As of the 2020 United States census, the population was 16,595. The county seat is Socorro. The county was formed in 1852 as one of the original nine counties of New Mexico Territory. Socorro was originally the name given to a Native American village (see: Puebloan peoples) by Don Juan de Oñate in 1598. Having received vitally needed food and assistance from the native population, Oñate named the pueblo Socorro ("succor" in English). Socorro County is home to multiple scientific research institutions including New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory and its associated Very Large Array, the Magdalena Ridge Observatory, and the Langmuir Laboratory for Atmospheric Research. Federal public lands in Socorro County include parts of the Cibola National Forest, the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, the Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Socorro Field Office, parts of the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, and parts of the El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro National Historic Trail.
Before you go: Socorro County essentials
Home to the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, a leading research institution.
Known for the Very Large Array, a significant radio astronomy observatory.
Offers diverse landscapes including parts of the Cibola National Forest and wildlife refuges.
Rich in history with sites like the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument.
Local Cuisine
Try the local New Mexican cuisine, which often features green and red chilies.
Currency
USD $
Average Cost
$80-$150 p/day
Population
17,866
Languages Spoken
English, Spanish
Scientific Attractions
Visit the Very Large Array, a world-renowned radio astronomy observatory.
Nature and Wildlife
Explore the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching, especially during the winter migration.
Historical Sites
Don't miss the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument for a glimpse into the area's rich history.
Best time to visit Socorro County
March-MaySeptember-November
Best Season
Spring
Spring is a pleasant time to visit with mild temperatures and blooming flora.
Summer
Summers can be hot, but it's a great time for stargazing and exploring the observatories.
Best Season
Fall
Fall offers cooler temperatures and is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking.
Winter
Winters are mild, making it a good time for birdwatching at the Bosque del Apache.
Location
Socorro County, New Mexico, United States