What should participants bring?

Participants should wear comfortable clothing, bring a notebook and pen, and pack a water bottle.

Is prior experience needed?

No prior experience is required; the program is designed for beginners and interested youths.

Meals are not provided; participants should bring snacks and lunch.

Is there an age limit?

Yes, the program is for youth aged 12 to 15.

What safety measures are in place?

All activities are supervised by trained staff, with safety protocols strictly followed.

Can parents visit during camp?

Parents are welcome to visit on designated days, but most activities occur independently.

Summer Youth Adventure & Leadership at Spy Camp

Located within the historic Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum, Spy Camp offers an engaging summer experience for youth aged 12 to 15 who have a passion for adventure and leadership. Situated just outside Ottawa, Ontario, this program immerses young participants in the secret world of espionage while fostering crucial skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Over the course of the CIT program, campers assist seasoned staff, gaining meaningful insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of a museum and the spy craft culture that surrounds it. The camp’s unique setting—an actual Cold War bunker—adds a layer of intrigue, with tunnels and concealed rooms that spark curiosity and storytelling. Beyond the historical intrigue, participants learn basic spy techniques, such as coded messaging, surveillance, and strategic thinking, all within a safe, supervised environment. The facility itself, established in 1961, stands as a testament to Cold War history, and the program taps into this legacy to inspire a new generation of leaders and adventurers. This experience is perfect for youth who are eager to challenge themselves, work collaboratively, and uncover the secrets of Cold War espionage. The outdoor context of the museum campus, combined with the engaging curriculum, makes Spy Camp a standout opportunity for young adventurers interested in history, leadership, and skills that extend beyond the classroom. Visiting Ottawa during the summer offers plenty of other activities, but Spy Camp’s CIT program provides a rare chance to step behind the scenes of one of Canada’s most fascinating historical sites while developing lifelong skills. Whether your teen dreams of being a spy or simply loves hands-on adventure, Spy Camp at Diefenbunker offers a summer of discovery and growth that stands out in Ontario’s youth programs.

About Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum

Diefenbunker: Canada’s Cold War Museum in Ottawa, Ontario preserves one of Canada’s most significant Cold War artifacts and offers immersive public programs that bring underground history to life. The museum operates self-guided and guided experiences including general admission, flexible ticketing, free parking, and a complimentary shuttle between downtown Ottawa and the site for summer 2025. Visitors can explore museum exhibits at their own pace or join scheduled guided tours and group tours, with some group options allowing individual payments.

Educational programs include Spy Camp for children aged 5 to 10, featuring disguise techniques, codebreaking, and Cold War technology, plus a Counsellor‑in‑Training (CIT) leadership program for youth aged 12 to 15. Birthday parties for children aged 7 to 12 provide spy‑themed missions and hands‑on activities. Seasonal events include a Toddlers’ Halloween Hunt and theatrical performances such as “Dief the Chief: October ’62,” a one‑hour show set 75 feet underground starring actor Pierre Brault.

The museum supports ongoing engagement through an Annual Pass offering year‑round access and the monthly e‑newsletter News from Underground. The Cold War Speaker Series delivers virtual expert talks with advance registration. Facilities feature visitor conveniences such as free parking and a new summer shuttle connecting the Canadian War Museum and the Diefenbunker from July 10 to September 21, 2025. With clear ticketing options and a range of family and educational programs, the Diefenbunker provides a secure, documented setting for learning about Cold War history. Operating as a museum facility, it preserves artifacts, archives, and educational resources for researchers.

Summer Youth Adventure & Leadership at Spy Camp

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