Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

When the sun's out and the yard beckons, there's no better way to enjoy the outdoors than with a fun lawn game. Whether you're looking to relive classic moments or try something new, there's a plethora of yard games to choose from in 2025. Here's a rundown of some of the best yard games to elevate your outdoor gatherings as the weather heats up.

TL;DR – 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, such as the size of your space and the number of players. Let's dive into the details of each game and see what makes them stand out.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

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

Cornhole is a timeless classic that's easy to find at any backyard gathering. The game involves two boards with holes and sets of bags, playable with either 2 or 4 players. For the best experience, opt for a wooden set, which offers less bounce and smoother bag sliding. Collapsible sets are also great for portability.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

See 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 putting. Players take turns trying to fill cups on the opponent's side, making it an engaging and leisurely game ideal for social gatherings.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

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

A relatively new addition to yard games, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two compete to hit a ball into a net before it touches the ground. The official set includes the net, balls, a carrying case, and the rulebook. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit with its enhanced net and ball.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

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

For those who enjoy a challenge without needing athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a must-have. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet. Keep kids and pets at a safe distance when the tower topples!

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

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

If you enjoy frisbee and precision, Kan Jam is your game. It's like cornhole but with a frisbee, requiring 50 feet of space between the cans, making it ideal for larger yards or beach outings.

Ladder Toss

GoSports Premium Ladder Toss

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

Ladder Toss, or Ladder Golf, involves tossing balls on a string to wrap around ladder rungs, each scoring different points. It's relaxing and space-efficient, perfect for any yard size.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

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

With roots tracing back to 14th-century France, Croquet remains a delightful game. Players hit balls through hoops with mallets, customizable to your yard's layout. It's perfect for a leisurely family gathering.

Bocce Ball

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

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

Dating back to 5200 B.C., Bocce is simple yet engaging. Teams aim to get their larger balls close to a smaller ball, making it portable and easy to set up.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

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

Badminton, akin to tennis and pickleball, uses a shuttlecock and requires hand-eye coordination. While setting up the net is necessary, it doubles as a volleyball net, offering versatility. You can also play virtually with Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

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

Inspired by beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. House rules govern the gameplay, adding a personal touch to your gatherings. Remember, no beer in the buckets!

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

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

A classic game that can be set up with stakes and horseshoes, Horseshoes is about scoring points by ringing the stake or getting close. Opt for metal sets for durability, or plastic ones for safety with kids.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

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

Pickleball, a fast-growing sport, blends elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set includes a net, balls, and a carrying case, but paddles are sold separately.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

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

For chess enthusiasts, a giant chess set adds a unique twist to your yard games. The MegaChess set is practical with 12-inch pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, perfect for outdoor play.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on factors like yard space, number of players, and the group's interests. For small yards, consider games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are top choices. Larger yards can accommodate games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce Ball, or Croquet.

If you're looking for games without equipment, classic options like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are great choices.

By considering these factors, you can ensure your outdoor gatherings are filled with fun and memorable moments.