Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

When the sun's out and your yard beckons, there's nothing quite like a fun lawn game to gather friends and family for some outdoor enjoyment. From timeless classics to innovative new experiences, there's a wide array of yard games perfect for the warming weather in 2025. Here are some of my top picks to make your outdoor gatherings unforgettable.

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 various factors, including the size of your space and the number of players. Below, I've detailed some of the best outdoor yard games for 2025 to help you make the perfect choice.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

2See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a classic yard game found at gatherings everywhere. The simplicity of the game—just two boards with holes and sets of bags—makes it accessible for all ages. You can play with 2 or 4 players, making it a versatile choice. While wooden sets are pricier, they offer less bounce and better bag sliding. Collapsible sets are ideal for travel.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

3See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules

Perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall combines the fun of yard pong with golf putting. Each team takes turns filling the opponent's cups, creating a relaxed yet competitive atmosphere. It's an excellent choice for a casual hangout game.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

1See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

A newer addition to the yard game scene, Spikeball blends elements of volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players spike a ball into a net, requiring quick reflexes and teamwork. The official set includes the net, balls, a carrying case, and rulebook. For a more durable option, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

1See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules

For a game that tests dexterity without needing much athletic skill, Giant Jenga is a thrilling choice. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall. Keep the area clear of small children and pets to avoid any mishaps when the tower falls.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

0See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam is perfect for those who enjoy frisbee throwing. Set up 50 feet apart, players aim to score by hitting or getting the frisbee into the cans' holes. It's an engaging game for larger spaces, ideal for backyards or beach days.

Ladder Toss

GoSports Premium Ladder Toss

0See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules

Also known as Ladder Golf or Ladder Ball, this game is easy to set up and play. Players aim to wrap balls on a string around the ladder's rungs, each worth different points. It's a relaxing game suitable for all skill levels and doesn't require much space.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

1See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules

With roots tracing back to 14th century France, Croquet remains a delightful lawn game. Players hit balls through customizable hoops with wooden mallets. It's perfect for a leisurely gathering, accommodating up to six players with minimal space requirements.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

1See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules

One of the oldest games listed, Bocce dates back to 5200 B.C. Players aim to get their larger balls close to a smaller target ball. It's simple, portable, and requires no setup, making it an excellent choice for quick and easy play.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

1See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Similar to tennis but with a shuttlecock, Badminton is an Olympic sport requiring hand-eye coordination. Setting up the net is the main challenge, but once in place, it can also serve as a volleyball net. Enjoy it virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports for indoor fun.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

0See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules

A larger version of beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized, but remember—no beer in the buckets! It's a fun and engaging game for outdoor settings.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

2See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Best played in a horseshoe pit, but adaptable to any backyard, Horseshoes involves throwing metal or plastic shoes to ring around stakes for points. It's a classic game that's easy to set up and enjoy.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

0See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

One of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., Pickleball combines elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set includes a net, balls, and a carrying case, but paddles must be purchased separately. It's perfect for any hard surface.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

1See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules

For strategic minds, a Giant Chess Set brings the classic game outdoors. The MegaChess set features 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, making it easy to store. Enjoy traditional chess in a grand scale.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on several factors: yard space, number of players, and the group's preferences. Small yards benefit from games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. Larger spaces can accommodate games like badminton or Kan Jam, while beach outings call for Spikeball or badminton, considering wind conditions.

For games without equipment, consider classics like capture the flag, hide and seek, or tag, which require only space and enthusiasm.

Remember, the best yard game is one that everyone enjoys playing, so choose based on your group's interests and the available space to ensure fun-filled outdoor gatherings.