The Best Yard Games to Get You Playing Outdoors in 2025

As the warm weather rolls in during 2025, there's no better way to enjoy the outdoors than with a fun lawn game. From timeless classics to innovative new options, there's something for everyone. Here’s a rundown of some of the best yard games to elevate 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

When selecting the perfect yard game for your spring gatherings, consider factors such as available space and the number of players. Dive into more details about my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025 below.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

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

Cornhole remains a beloved classic, perfect for any backyard. The game involves tossing bags onto a slanted board with a hole, playable with 2 to 4 players. While there are numerous sets available, wooden ones offer a smoother, less bouncy surface and better sliding for the bags. For those on the go, collapsible sets are a convenient choice.

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 yard pong with the precision of golf. Players take turns putting into cups, aiming to fill their opponent's side first. It's a relaxed game, perfect for social gatherings.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

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

A newer addition to the yard game scene, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players each spike a ball into a small net, aiming to keep it in play without letting it touch the ground. The official set is recommended for its durability and quality, though more affordable knock-offs exist.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

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

For a game that tests dexterity without requiring athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a fantastic choice. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall. It's fun for all ages, though caution is advised when the tower falls to avoid injury to pets or small children.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

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

If throwing frisbees and aiming at cans sounds like your kind of fun, Kan Jam is for you. Teams score by hitting or throwing the frisbee into designated slots on the cans, set up 50 feet apart. It's an excellent choice for larger spaces 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 (balls connected by a string) to wrap around rungs on a ladder, with each rung scoring different points. It's a laid-back game suitable for smaller yards, available in various materials like PVC or wood.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

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

With origins tracing back to 14th-century France, Croquet remains a delightful choice for leisurely outdoor fun. Players use mallets to guide balls through hoops, customizable to any yard size. It's perfect for relaxed gatherings with family and friends.

Bocce

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 a simple yet engaging game. Teams aim to get their larger balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball. It's highly portable and requires no setup, making it ideal for spontaneous play.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

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

Similar to tennis but with a shuttlecock, Badminton is an Olympic sport that tests hand-eye coordination. While it requires setting up a net, it can double as a volleyball net for added versatility. It's also available virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

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

For fans of beer pong, Yard Pong offers a larger-scale version with buckets. The rules can be customized to suit your group, but remember to keep it alcohol-free for family fun.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

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

Traditionally played in a horseshoe pit, this game involves tossing horseshoes to encircle a stake for points. Metal sets are recommended for durability, though plastic versions are safer for younger players.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

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

As one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., Pickleball combines elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set includes a net and balls, though paddles must be purchased separately. It's perfect for any hard surface with enough space for the net.

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 brings the classic game outdoors. The MegaChess set features 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, making it a practical and enjoyable addition to your yard game collection.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Choosing the perfect lawn game depends on several factors, including yard space, number of players, and personal preferences. For small yards, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal. At the beach, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are excellent choices, weather permitting. For larger yards, consider badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet to make the most of the space.

If you're looking for games without equipment, options like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are fun and require only space to play.

Whether you have a small patio or a sprawling backyard, these yard games offer endless entertainment for all ages and occasions.