Smarts Mountain Campsite
01 reviewSmarts Mountain Campsite
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
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About this campground
Perched atop Smarts Mountain, this historic Fire Warden's cabin offers adventurers a unique glimpse into New Hampshire's forest conservation heritage. Originally constructed by the NH Forest Service to house vigilant fire watchers who protected vast wilderness areas, the cabin now serves as a rustic mountain shelter lovingly maintained by the Dartmouth Outing Club. This mountaintop refuge beckons hikers seeking an authentic backcountry experience steeped in history.
Smarts Mountain Campsite provides rustic accommodations suitable for primitive camping, cabin lodging, and tent camping.
Historical SignificanceThe Fire Warden's cabin stands as a testament to early 20th-century forest conservation efforts in New Hampshire. For decades, dedicated wardens lived in isolation atop the mountain, scanning the horizon for smoke plumes that could signal devastating forest fires. Their vigilance protected countless acres of pristine wilderness. Today, the Dartmouth Outing Club honors this legacy by preserving the cabin for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts to experience this piece of living history.
Weather and SeasonsThe summit of Smarts Mountain experiences dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll in quickly across the exposed peak. Autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant oranges and reds, offering spectacular views in crisp, clear weather. Winter transforms the cabin into a snow-covered alpine outpost, accessible only to experienced winter hikers prepared for challenging conditions. Spring arrives late at this elevation, with wildflowers emerging as snow melts from the mountain slopes.
ElevationRising to 3,238 feet above sea level, Smarts Mountain commands impressive views of the White Mountains to the north and the Connecticut River Valley to the west. The significant elevation gain required to reach the summit campsite rewards hikers with a true above-treeline experience and panoramic vistas that stretch for miles on clear days.
Natural Features and SceneryThe summit area features exposed granite ledges that provide 360-degree views of New Hampshire's rugged landscape. Ancient spruce and fir trees, stunted by harsh winds, create a subalpine environment rarely found at this modest elevation. On clear days, visitors can spot Mount Moosilauke to the north and the Green Mountains of Vermont stretching along the western horizon. The surrounding forests shelter diverse wildlife, from black bears to peregrine falcons.
Geological RegionSmarts Mountain rises from the ancient bedrock of the New Hampshire Highlands, a geological region shaped by millions of years of tectonic activity and glacial carving. The exposed granite summit bears the scars of Ice Age glaciers that scoured these peaks, leaving behind dramatic cliff faces and boulder fields. This rugged terrain is part of the Appalachian Mountain chain, offering hikers a chance to literally walk through geological history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described.
Sites SizeThe fire warden's cabin can accommodate up to eight people, while primitive tent sites are available, but their sizes are not detailed.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly reviewed, but the campground's primitive nature suggests a secluded experience.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
Group sites are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Smarts Mountain Campsite offers opportunities for hiking along the Appalachian Trail and Lambert Ridge Trail, wildlife viewing from the refurbished firetower, and primitive camping.
Hiking
The Appalachian Trail and Lambert Ridge Trail pass close to the campsite. The trails provide scenic hiking opportunities, including access to the summit with a refurbished firetower offering a 260-degree view of the White Mountains, Vermont, and the Connecticut River Valley.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is possible from the firetower, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding regions.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not applicable.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Campground Map
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Smarts Mountain Campsite has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the site's stunning views from the refurbished firetower and its rustic charm. A review by Cynthia Tierney praises the incredible views.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the refurbished firetower's views and the natural beauty surrounding the campsite.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints or issues are not mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
No specific tips or recommendations are available.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User reviews are not broken down by season.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The view from the tower and the campsites was incredible." - Cynthia Tierney
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are not available.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features or reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or experiences are not mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025