Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Playing!

When the sun is out and your yard beckons, there's nothing quite like a fun lawn game to bring everyone together for some outdoor fun. With 2025 bringing warmer weather, it's the perfect time to explore a variety of yard games, from timeless classics to exciting new options. Here’s a rundown of the best yard games to enjoy this year.

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

When choosing a yard game for spring 2025, consider the size of your space and the number of players. Below, you'll find detailed insights into my top picks for the best outdoor yard games this year.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

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

Cornhole remains a staple in yard games, beloved for its simplicity and fun. All you need are two boards with holes and sets of bags to start playing. You can enjoy it with 2 or 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. While wooden sets are pricier, they offer a smoother play experience compared to plastic. For those on the move, collapsible sets are a great travel-friendly option.

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 brings the fun of indoor golf outdoors. It's essentially yard pong with putters, where teams take turns filling in the cups on the opponent's side. It's easy to set up and its leisurely pace makes it ideal for a relaxed hangout.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

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

A newer addition to yard games, Spikeball combines elements of volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players spike a ball into a net, aiming to return it before it touches the ground. The official set offers everything you need, including a carrying case. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit with its enhanced net and ball.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

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

For those seeking a game that tests dexterity without needing athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is the answer. Available in various sizes, with the standard reaching over 4 feet, it brings the classic game to a grand scale. Just ensure there are no small children or pets nearby when the tower falls.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

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

If you enjoy throwing frisbees, Kan Jam is your game. It's like cornhole but with frisbees and more involvement from the non-throwing team. Ideal for larger spaces, it's perfect for big backyards or 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, is a simple yet engaging game similar to horseshoes or cornhole. Players aim to wrap balls on a string around different rungs on a ladder, each worth varying points. It's relaxing and doesn't require much space, making it suitable for smaller yards.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

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

A game with roots in 14th century France, Croquet is a delightful choice for a leisurely backyard experience. Players use wooden mallets to knock balls through hoops, with customizable courses. It's perfect for gatherings and doesn't require much space.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

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

One of the oldest lawn games, Bocce dates back to 5200 B.C. Players aim to get larger balls as close as possible to a smaller ball, making it simple yet strategic. It's portable and requires no setup, ideal for quick, easy games.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

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

Badminton, akin to tennis but with a shuttlecock, is simple yet requires good hand-eye coordination. It's an Olympic sport and, once set up, the net can double as a volleyball net. Both badminton and volleyball can also be played virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

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

Inspired by beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. The rules can vary by household, making it customizable and fun. Remember, no actual beer in the buckets!

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

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

Horseshoes can be played in a pit or simply with stakes in the backyard. Players aim to ring horseshoes around the stake or get as close as possible. Metal sets are recommended, but plastic ones are safer for kids.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

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

Pickleball, a blend of tennis and ping pong, is a popular recreational sport. The portable net set is perfect for home play, requiring only a hard surface for the ball to bounce. Paddles are sold separately.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

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

For chess enthusiasts, a giant chess set can transform your yard into a strategic battleground. The MegaChess set is practical and easy to store, offering the classic game on a grand scale.

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 type of activity you enjoy. Smaller yards benefit from games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are great choices, though wind conditions can affect play. Larger yards can accommodate expansive games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet. If you're looking for games without equipment, consider capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag.

Ultimately, the best yard game is one that you and your friends and family will enjoy playing together.