Extraordinary bunkers hiding in people's backyards

Unbelievable home shelters hidden underground

There's no denying the world is somewhat in turmoil right now, so it isn't surprising that some savvy homeowners are utilising their land to create secure, underground spaces where they could see out a nuclear disaster, war or even an apocalypse.

From subterranean shelters you can install at home to unbelievable hideaways real people have built in their backyards, these retreats would be the perfect places to hunker down and wait out the worst.

Underground home inside former missile silo, Kansas, USA

When it landed on the market for £1.3 million ($1.6m) in early 2021, this Cold War-era missile silo went viral almost immediately. Sitting on 32 acres, the former military base was converted into an underground home in the 80s and it's almost too cool to be true.

Underground home inside former missile silo, Kansas, USA

Located in Eskridge, Kansas, the Atlas E missile base dates back to the early 1950s, following the threat of nuclear war by the Soviet Union. Built to withstand bomb blasts, it is constructed from epoxy-resin concrete and heavy rebar.

Underground home inside former missile silo, Kansas, USA

When the previous owners bought it, they decided to turn it into an ultra-cool home, digging out an underground lair they went on to call the Subterra Castle. The house includes underground living rooms, six bedrooms and three bathrooms.

Underground home inside former missile silo, Kansas, USA

The grounds also include a grass airstrip, a pond, orchards and a passive solar greenhouse, enabling the owner to live off-grid. A 47-tonne blast door leads to the structure that housed the missile, which is now used as a workshop. An underground tunnel connects the workshop to the living areas of the house – how's that for unique?

Underground home inside former missile silo, Kansas, USA

There are seemingly endless rooms in the former missile base and the owners even preserved the original control room. Signage and military artefacts can be found throughout, too, including in one of the hallways, where old news clippings can be found hung on the walls.

Click or scroll on to tour more incredible backyard bunkers...

45-acre prepper's compound, Indiana, USA

This sprawling 45-acre compound features a main three-bedroom house, a two-bedroom cabin, a workshop, a private apartment and endless woodland trails that are perfect for hiking or dirt biking. Plus, the property comes with a one-of-a-kind feature, hidden somewhere in its grounds…

45-acre prepper's compound, Indiana, USA

Located in the heart of the estate is an abandoned Cold War bunker. Sandwiched into the earth, the shelter is hidden from view, making it ideal for someone seeking a prepper's hideaway for seeing out a pandemic.

45-acre prepper's compound, Indiana, USA

Inside, the bunker features bare concrete block walls and snug corridors that lead to various underground rooms. There's an incredible 3,300 square feet down here, which means there's enough space for a lounge, kitchen, dining room, numerous bedrooms and bathrooms.

45-acre prepper's compound, Indiana, USA

Long and narrow, this cool abandoned bunker has an impressive 14 rooms including a shooting range – we imagine for zombie target practice. It's also equipped with LED lights, a water line coming in, floor drains and an escape hatch. If you like the look of it, then it could be yours. It's currently for sale right now for just shy of £1 million ($1.3m).

Luxury backyard bunker, Michigan, USA

This impressive mansion is for sale with Five Star Real Estate for £4.6 million ($5.8m) and it isn't surprising when you consider its scale and secret amenities.

Located in Battle Creek, Michigan, the estate benefits from a staggering 290 acres of land and a 13,496-square-foot main house, as well as three additional homes and a fully-stocked, 30-foot deep lake. But, of course, that isn't all...

Luxury backyard bunker, Michigan, USA

The house was finished in 2018 and offers light and airy living spaces, five bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a fitness centre, a movie theatre, a yoga room and a spa. Outside, there's a large vegetable garden and a state-of-the-art greenhouse, both built for self-sustainability, as well as a video surveillance security system.

But, the home's incredible backyard bunker is its finest offering. Designed and installed by Rising S Bunkers, the retreat is from the firm's luxury series and prices for such bunkers start at £3 million ($3.8m).

Luxury backyard bunker, Michigan, USA

Made from steel, the state-of-the-art bunker was built to run perfectly when off the grid and comes with a secure blast door to stop any unwanted visitors from getting inside.

Kitted out with everything you could need to survive the end of the world, there's a kitchen, numerous bathrooms and bedrooms and even a garden with indoor growing equipment, so the lucky owner can grow their own produce without having to leave the sanctuary of the bunker.

Luxury backyard bunker, Michigan, USA

Amazingly, the bunker also features a unique, soundproof room that could come in handy if you need to lay low. The plush unit is also equipped with full plumbing and septic systems and is wired for dual power, so it can run on or off the grid as needed. It also has an NBC air filtration system, water heaters and infrared security systems to keep any occupant safe and comfortable.

Modular fallout shelter, Texas, USA

If you'd prefer to add a bunker to your own back garden rather than upping sticks, Texas-based Atlas Survival Shelters offers a range of affordable bunkers that will keep you safe and sound in all situations. The company's Modular Square shelter is one of their finest and comes complete with a state-of-the-art air filtration system, a generator room and enough solid steel to save you from bomb blasts, fire, floods and disease.

Modular fallout shelter, Texas, USA

The perfect fit for a large back garden, the shelter is designed as an emergency home away from home. It features thick steel walls, a bulletproof hatch and gas-tight doors to help stop gamma radiation in its tracks. Plus, it boasts a decontamination room, so you can ensure people are safe to enter the main shelter.

Modular fallout shelter, Texas, USA

The modular shelter looks more like a tiny home than a bunker, thanks to its well-appointed interior. It offers a modern, open-plan living space with a lounge, fully-fitted kitchen and dining area, as well as an LED TV and DVD player, throws, cushions and an array of other creature comforts.

Modular fallout shelter, Texas, USA

There's also a spacious bunk room, a separate master bedroom and a luxurious bathroom with a walk-in shower. A number of potentially life-saving add-ons can be snapped up, too, for an additional charge. These include camera surveillance, short-wave radios, solar panels and, last but not least, multiple radiation detectors. The shelter is available in no less than nine sizes and layouts, so prices vary. Interested parties can request a quote by dropping Atlas an email.

Self-sufficient compound, Texas, USA

Providing everything you could need to survive a nuclear or environmental disaster, this private and self-sufficient compound in Granbury, Texas sits on five acres of land. While the estate currently doesn't have a home, there's more than enough room for one. There's also a huge pond, stocked with catfish and perch and an old barn.

Self-sufficient compound, Texas, USA

However, the estate's best asset has to be its secure underground bunker. This steel trap door is all that can be seen from ground level, but head down inside and you'll find a 200-square-foot space with a seven-foot ceiling, ensuring no one feels claustrophobic.

Self-sufficient compound, Texas, USA

The compact retreat benefits from a snug living area, a kitchenette and a bed. There's also a roomy compost bathroom with a shower and toilet, as well as plenty of storage space.

Self-sufficient compound, Texas, USA

What's more, the bunker is solar-powered, so the lucky owner will still have access to lighting and electricity, no matter what is going on above ground.

Backyard missile silo, Kansas, USA

This beautiful nine-acre estate is located in Kansas, USA, and comes complete with an eight-foot barbed wire fence that surrounds the main property, as well as a 1,500-foot-by 100-foot-wide deeded driveway that's fenced and gated. That's because this property is hiding a rather impressive secret.

Backyard missile silo, Kansas, USA

That's right, the acreage is home to a secure bunker that's almost invisible. Described by the company who made it as “truly the safest 'bunker' on the planet”, the subterranean space is positioned nearly 200 feet below the ground.

Known as the Rolling Hills Missile Silo, it was originally constructed in the 1960s to withstand “a nuclear blast or comparable natural disaster” and cost over £118 million ($150m) to build, in today's money. It was recently renovated to make it perfect for a modern prepper.

Backyard missile silo, Kansas, USA

One of several Atlas missile silos built by the US Government during the Cold War, the underground bunker was constructed by engineering scientists to survive nuclear attacks, catastrophic storms and much more.

This one was built with nine-foot thick reinforced concrete and measures 52 feet in diameter. A whopping 600 tonnes of steel rebar was used alongside the concrete, though all that is visible from ground level is the secure, 7,000 lb steel blast door.

Backyard missile silo, Kansas, USA

Inside, stairs descend to multiple levels, with surprisingly generous living spaces on each. Every floor stretches out across 2,000 square feet and the interior is said to be large enough to accommodate an 18-storey building inside. A 40-foot tunnel leads from the control centre to the missile silo and there are endless spaces to utilise. If you're a fan of this amazing underground retreat, then it's for sale right now for £1 million ($1.3m).

Remote acreage with hidden bunker, Michigan, USA

Spacious, secluded and incredibly pretty, this remote property in Ionia County, Michigan stretches almost 37 acres, so there's nothing but fields and trees for miles around. The parcel benefits from a dilapidated barn with a living space above. It has a kitchen, lounge, three bedrooms and two bathrooms, all of which need work. But that isn't what makes this property interesting...

Remote acreage with hidden bunker, Michigan, USA

Nestled in the woods, you'll find a secluded bunker. Described by the listing agents as a “bonus bunker/root cellar” – the latter of which is used for the storage of vegetables, fruits and nuts – the concrete structure would need a bit of work to render it impenetrable, but it definitely has the potential to be utilised as a secure hideout. Let's step inside.

Remote acreage with hidden bunker, Michigan, USA

The stark bunker features a few compact rooms with solid block walls and no windows. Built into the ground, all the bunker needs is a new, ultra-strong front door and a bit of an interior makeover and it will be the perfect place to hide out during a zombie apocalypse.

Though small, the remote retreat seems to have enough space for a few bunk beds, a bathroom, a lounge and a kitchen, so it would be ideal for a family.

Remote acreage with hidden bunker, Michigan, USA

What’s more, it already has electric and water services in place and the surrounding land is filled with apple, pear, black walnut and mulberry trees, as well as an acre of asparagus. Plus, the area is known for attracting ducks and deer – so the owner of this pad could be self-sufficient.

The property is currently on the market with Five Star Real Estate for £275,000 ($350k).

Miniature garden bunker, USA

If you're searching for an emergency retreat to fit a smaller area, the Mini Bunker by Rising S Bunkers is a compact and affordable option, with prices starting at just £38,600 ($49k). Designed to protect its occupants from bomb blasts and nuclear fallout, the solid steel structure can be lifted into place to provide an instant garden shelter.

Miniature garden bunker, USA

Measuring just eight feet by 12 feet, the snug bunker offers a basic survival space that can be decorated with homely touches for a more welcoming feel. The dinky living area has an air filtration system, a bunk bed and a stove to keep its residents toasty and warm in the colder months.

Miniature garden bunker, USA

There's also a compact kitchenette, a composting toilet and shower unit, plus a TV/DVD system to keep the whole family entertained. The bunkers are made to order, so buyers can select their ideal floor plan and amenities.

Miniature garden bunker, USA

Plus, buyers can add on various options to make their bunker extra safe and comfortable. From ultraviolet water filtration systems to solar power and battery storage, you can customise your space to suit your needs and concerns.

10x50 garden bunker, USA

Of course, Rising S Bunkers has plenty of other options for buyers. From a 6,000-square-foot model nicknamed "The Beast" to an 860-square-foot shelter that's perfect for those with minimal space, there's a product to suit all needs and budgets. The company's most popular model is the 10x50 Silver Leaf series. Prices start at £114,900 ($146k) and there are numerous layout and add-on options available.

10x50 garden bunker, USA

The base model was recently redesigned and allows for room separation, unlike other models. In this unit, the kitchen and dining space are located at the opposite end to where the master bedroom and bunk room can be found, with a common living area in between. A side entry allows for a more traditional home feel and it comes with all the amenities you'd expect, including an electric water heater, a full kitchen, a walk-in shower and a composting toilet.

10x50 garden bunker, USA

Of course, it includes plenty of life-saving features too; an NBC Air Filtration system with blast valves and over-pressure valves, a bullet-resistant security door, a solar generating charging system with battery supply and an emergency escape hatch. Plus, floorplan changes can be made at no additional cost, so Rising S Bunkers will tailor your shelter to fit your family's specific needs.

10x50 garden bunker, USA

This image shows one of the company's custom-designed models, created for a private client. Homely and cosy, it has everything the owner could need to see out a disaster. What's more, you can add on anything you think you might need, such as a decontamination room for £22,800 ($29k), underfloor storage and steel air vents.

Secluded prepper's bunker, Colorado, USA

This five-acre parcel can be found in the countryside of Teller County, Colorado, and would be perfect for anyone seeking a remote, ultra-secure and discrete property in which to escape the hubbub of daily life.

Secluded prepper's bunker, Colorado, USA

Described by previous listing agents RE/MAX as “the perfect prepper getaway”, the property is fenced on three sides and boasts a submerged concrete bunker, whose hatch door is barely visible from ground level.

Secluded prepper's bunker, Colorado, USA

The closer you get, the more apparent the bunker becomes. Situated 15 feet below the ground, the secure space is encased in concrete and was professionally built and installed. Its interior measures just 500 square feet, but it comes with everything one could need to see out a nuclear disaster.

Secluded prepper's bunker, Colorado, USA

The cosy and bright interior benefits from bunk beds for 12 people, a snug lounge, a galley kitchen and ample storage for food and other supplies. It also has a very handy ANDAIR ventilation system that pumps fresh air inside 24/7. Power is supplied by solar panels and a manual well on the estate provides fresh water all year round.

The Ark Two, Ontario, Canada

Almost 40 years ago, Bruce Beach finished building a 10,000-square-foot nuclear bunker out of 42 school buses, in a bid to prepare for the end of the world. Bruce and his wife Jean live on a 12.5-acre parcel in Ontario, Canada, and decided to convert the automobiles into the ultimate safe space.

The Ark Two, Ontario, Canada

Named The Ark Two, the shelter sits 14 feet underground and can accommodate around 500 people. It's been designed to support a large community and is equipped with everything from food supplies to plumbing and laundry facilities.

Bruce chose to build his unconventional bunker out of buses because of their reasonable price point. Costing him just £235 ($300) each, the frames of the buses came complete with reinforced steel roofs – ideal for a bomb-proof shelter.

The Ark Two, Ontario, Canada

A true prepper, Bruce ensured The Ark Two has everything a small community would need, including a decontamination space, kitchen, laundry, library, dentist, daycare, X-ray facilities and even a small chapel. With no shortage of room, the shelter is so big that there are maps dotted around the corridors so that residents don't lose their way.

The Ark Two, Ontario, Canada

Designed not only as a safety bunker to protect its inhabitants but also as a space to reconstruct society after a devastating catastrophe, the bunker is ready and waiting should a global disaster occur. Sleeping accommodation includes communal bunk rooms assigned according to age and gender.

Sadly, in May 2021, Bruce passed away after suffering from a heart attack and the amazing survival bunker was closed to new members.

Mountain getaway, Montana, USA

Located on an idyllic alpine property in Montana, this mountain home borders thousands of acres of national forest. The luxurious main house is tucked away behind a private gated entrance, while a secret bunker is hidden within the sprawling 40-acre grounds.

Camouflaged among the rocks, the concealed entrance leads through to four RV bays and a 2,500-square-foot living space that's ready for the installation of four apartments.

Mountain getaway, Montana, USA

With a fully reinforced door, the bunker is also equipped with a two-storey vault and an escape tunnel. This secure, subterranean space has to be the perfect hideout in the event of a global emergency.

Mountain getaway, Montana, USA

Equipped to run off-grid with two 1,000-gallon underground propane tanks and a water system, the self-sufficient backyard bunker also comes with a separate workshop space fitted with a small electric crane.

Mountain getaway, Montana, USA

You'd be far from roughing it in a crisis as the interior of the underground shelter is already equipped with a fully working kitchen, featuring spotlights, rustic wooden cabinets and state-of-the-art appliances. Additional underground creature comforts include a modern bathroom and a laundry room.

Rural cabin home, Alabama, USA

This rural retreat in the small village of Muscadine, Alabama is the ultimate secure escape. Sitting in over 73 acres of land encompassing three flowing creeks, the property isn't all it seems, as it includes a rather unique clandestine feature too...

Rural cabin home, Alabama, USA

Fully furnished, the rustic main home is the ideal place to lay low. Spread over three floors, it features three bedrooms with a spacious kitchen, a cosy rock fireplace and an upper deck complete with a hot tub.

Rural cabin home, Alabama, USA

Overlooking the tranquil creek, the cabin-style home also has a large indoor-outdoor pavilion with a firepit that would make the ideal workshop space for a thrifty prepper. But that isn't all...

Rural cabin home, Alabama, USA

Hidden from the world at the rear of the pavilion is the entrance to this underground bunker. Complete with a living space, bedroom and kitchen, it's the ideal self-contained hideaway should the world descend into chaos.

Corrugated pipe bunker, worldwide

Another model option by Atlas Survival Shelters is the Round Culvert bunker. Described by the firm as the "most popular bomb shelter in the world", the model is the ultimate option for those focused on survival. While the modular square shelter is designed to feel like home, the round culvert is designed to be as strong as possible. It can be buried in your garden and uses the natural strength of the earth as your main protection, not the thickness of its walls.

Corrugated pipe bunker, worldwide

The durable, underground shelter is actually a 10-foot-long culvert pipe – these drainage pipes are usually installed into roads, railroads or bridges to allow water to flow through from the surface. If installed correctly, the bunker can hold up to 42 feet of topsoil, meaning it can be submerged deep below the ground.

Corrugated pipe bunker, worldwide

Galvanised steel stairs lead down to the gas-tight interior door and inside there are tamper-proof air pipes and an escape tunnel so you're covered for every eventuality. The living area is compact yet comfortable, with an entertainment centre and a fully-fitted kitchen. Plus, with a 10-foot ceiling and plenty of storage underneath the floors, there's room to store food, medical supplies and water. This image is of a different Atlas model, but highlights how homely and cosy their bunkers can be.

Corrugated pipe bunker, worldwide

The shelter parts bolt together easily, which makes this shelter extremely easy to install yourself. There are more than 27 model options available, sleeping up to eight people, but no matter which you pick you'll end up with a comfortable space that offers room for work, rest, sleep and dining. Prices are available upon enquiry.

Fortitude Ranch, across the USA

Rather than sheltering in your own back garden, you might prefer to hunker down in someone else's. Fortitude Ranch is a doomsday survival camp where preppers can lay low in the event of a major catastrophe. Founded by Drew Miller, a former military intelligence officer, it has multiple sites, including Texas, Colorado, West Virginia and Nevada.

Fortitude Ranch, across the USA

From the outside, the 50-acre Colorado ranch looks like a rustic holiday retreat in the mountains. However, built like a fortress with guard towers and barbed wire fencing, it's no ordinary rural escape.

As well as two large log cabins, there's also an array of underground bunkers nestled in the grounds. Each of the subterranean shelters is built to sustain a nuclear attack, with eight-inch thick reinforced concrete, steel plating and three feet of earth covering the roofs of the structures.

Fortitude Ranch, across the USA

Inside, the bunkers are basic but functional, a choice made in part to make the yearly membership fee as affordable as possible. The ranch provides solar and propane generators as well as kerosene and wood supplies, ensuring the shelters have access to heating and power should disaster strike.

Fortitude Ranch, across the USA

Fortitude Ranch also has an impressive stockpile of food, so residents won't go hungry in the event of a global emergency. The compound includes a small greenhouse with genetically modified seeds that have a longer shelf life, while some ranch locations even have cattle.

Now take a look at some charming small towns that hide amazing underground worlds