Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

As the sun shines brighter and the days grow warmer in 2025, there's no better way to enjoy the outdoors than with some fun lawn games. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to spend some quality time with family and friends, there's a wide variety of yard games to choose from. Here are some of my top picks for the best yard games of 2025 that are sure to bring joy and laughter to your outdoor gatherings.

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 your yard's size, the number of players, and the type of game you enjoy. Below, I'll dive into details about each of these fantastic outdoor games.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

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

Cornhole is a timeless classic that you'll find at almost every outdoor gathering. The game is simple: throw bean bags into a hole on a slanted board. You can play with 2 or 4 players. While there are various sets available, wooden ones are often preferred for their durability and smoother play. Collapsible sets are great for those who need portability.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

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

Ideal for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall combines the fun of golf and beer pong. Players take turns putting balls into cups on the opponent's side. It's a relaxed game perfect for socializing and can be set up almost anywhere.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

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

Spikeball is a newer, energetic game that blends elements of volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players each hit a ball into a small, circular net. It's an active game that's perfect for those looking for a workout while having fun. The official set includes everything you need, though less expensive knock-offs are available.

Giant Jenga

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

For a fun test of dexterity, Giant Jenga is a fantastic choice. It's the classic game of Jenga, but on a much larger scale, with towers reaching over 4 feet. It's perfect for players of all ages and skill levels, though be cautious of the tower's collapse to ensure safety.

Kan Jam

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

Kan Jam is perfect for frisbee enthusiasts. Players throw a disc at a canister, aiming to score points by hitting or landing the disc in different slots. It's great for larger spaces, making it ideal for spacious backyards 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, also known as Ladder Golf, involves tossing bolas (two balls connected by a string) onto a ladder structure. It's easy to learn and can be played in small spaces. While some sets use golf balls and wood, PVC and plastic versions are just as fun and more affordable.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

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

Croquet is a leisurely game with a rich history dating back to 14th century France. Players use mallets to hit balls through hoops. It's customizable, relaxing, and perfect for family gatherings, requiring minimal space for setup.

Bocce Ball

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

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

Bocce Ball, one of the oldest lawn games, involves rolling larger balls toward a smaller target ball. It's simple, portable, and doesn't require any setup, making it a great choice for quick and easy outdoor fun.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

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

Badminton is a fast-paced game that's easy to set up and play. Players hit a shuttlecock over a net, requiring some hand-eye coordination. The net can also be used for volleyball, adding versatility to your outdoor sports setup.

Yard Pong

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

Yard Pong is essentially beer pong scaled up for outdoor play, using buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized to your liking, making it a fun and flexible game for casual gatherings.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

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

Horseshoes is a classic game that can be played in a pit or simply with stakes in the ground. Players aim to throw horseshoes around a stake to score points. Metal sets are recommended for durability, though plastic versions are safer for children.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

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

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, combines elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set includes a net and balls, though paddles are sold separately. It's perfect for those with enough space for a court and a desire for an active game.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

See 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 is practical for storage and play, with pieces about 12 inches tall and a 4x4 foot mat. It's a great way to enjoy chess in the fresh air.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on various factors such as the size of your yard, the number of players, and the type of game you enjoy. For small yards, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong are ideal. If you're heading to the beach, consider Spikeball or Kan Jam, which work well in sandy environments. For larger yards, games like badminton, Kan Jam, or even a sprawling game of Bocce Ball or Croquet can take full advantage of the space.

If you're looking for games without equipment, consider classics like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag. These require only space and imagination, making them perfect for spontaneous outdoor fun.

Whether you're looking to relax, compete, or just enjoy some time in the sun, these yard games offer something for everyone in 2025.