Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

When the sun is out and your yard beckons, nothing beats the joy of gathering friends and family for some fun lawn games. Whether you're looking to relive classic memories or try something new, the range of yard games available in 2025 is sure to keep everyone entertained. Here's a curated list of the best yard games to make the most of the warmer months ahead.

TL;DR – These are the Best Yard Games of 2025

• Cornhole
• PutterBall
• Spikeball
• Giant Jenga
• Kan Jam
• Ladder Toss
• Croquet
• Bocce Ball
• Badminton
• Yard Pong
• Horseshoes
• Pickleball
• Giant Chess

Choosing the right yard game involves considering factors like available space and the number of players. Below, you'll find detailed insights into my top picks for outdoor fun in 2025.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

2See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a timeless classic that's perfect for any backyard gathering. The game's simplicity is its charm—you need just two boards with holes and sets of bags to start playing. It can be enjoyed with 2 to 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. For the best experience, opt for wooden sets over plastic; they offer less bounce and better bag slide. If you're on the go, consider collapsible sets for easy travel.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

3See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: PutterBall Rules

For those with limited space, PutterBall is an excellent choice. This game combines the fun of yard pong with the precision of putting. It's perfect for decks, patios, or small yards, offering a relaxing and engaging experience as players aim to fill their opponent's cups. It's a great social game that you can set up almost anywhere.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

Spikeball brings a fresh twist to yard games, blending elements of volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two compete to spike a ball into a net, with the opposing team trying to return it before it hits the ground. It's an energetic game that's perfect for those looking to get active. The official Spikeball set includes everything you need, though cheaper knock-offs are available. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

Giant Jenga is the perfect game for those who enjoy a challenge without needing much athletic prowess. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall, making for an exciting and visually impressive game. Just ensure the area is clear of children and pets when the tower falls!

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam is a dynamic game that combines frisbee throwing with strategic play. Set up 50 feet apart, players aim to score points by hitting or landing the frisbee in the can's holes. It's ideal for larger spaces and perfect for beach outings.

Ladder Toss

GoSports Premium Ladder Toss

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules

Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Golf or Ladder Ball, is a relaxing game that's easy to set up and play. The objective is to wrap balls on a string around different rungs of a ladder, each worth varying points. It's suitable for small to medium-sized yards and can be played with PVC or wooden sets.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Croquet Official Rules

Croquet, with its roots tracing back to 14th century France, remains a delightful option for leisurely backyard gatherings. Players use mallets to hit balls through hoops, with customizable courses to suit your space. It's perfect for up to six players and doesn't require much room.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-8

Rules: Bocce Official Rules

Bocce is one of the oldest lawn games, dating back to 5200 B.C. Its simplicity is its strength—players aim to get their larger balls close to a smaller ball. It's highly portable and requires no setup, making it ideal for spontaneous fun.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton offers a thrilling yet accessible game for all ages. Using a shuttlecock and long rackets, players aim to keep it in play over the net. It requires some setup but doubles as a volleyball net for added versatility. For a virtual twist, consider Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

Yard Pong brings the beloved beer pong game outdoors with buckets instead of cups. The rules can be tailored to your preference, making it a flexible and fun addition to any gathering. Just remember, no beer in the buckets!

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

2See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is a classic game that can be set up in your backyard with just stakes and horseshoes. The goal is to ring the stake or get close for points. For safety with young players, consider plastic sets, but metal ones offer a more authentic experience.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball, blending elements of tennis and ping pong, is a rapidly growing sport. This portable set includes a net, pickleballs, and a carrying case, though paddles are sold separately. It's ideal for any hard surface with enough space for the net.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2

Rules: Chess Official Rules

For a strategic outdoor game, a giant chess set is a captivating choice. The MegaChess set offers a practical size with 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, perfect for outdoor play and easy storage. Traditional chess rules apply, just on a larger scale.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect yard game depends on various factors, including yard space, player count, and the group's interests. Smaller yards are best suited for games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. For larger yards, consider badminton, Kan Jam, or sprawling games like Bocce or Croquet.

What's the Best Yard Game for Small Yards?

For smaller spaces, opt for games that don't require much movement or setup. Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal as they need only a small, flat area.

What's the Best Beach Game?

Spikeball excels at the beach due to the soft sand, which allows for safe diving. Badminton and Kan Jam are also great, though wind conditions may affect play.

What's the Best Yard Game for Big Yards?

With ample space, you can enjoy games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet, spreading them out for an enhanced experience.

What Yard Games Can You Play Without Equipment?

For equipment-free fun, consider classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag, all of which require only space and imagination.