Gather outside and soak up the sun with a lively lawn game that brings everyone together. From timeless favorites to exciting new options, there’s a wide variety of yard games to choose from. As the weather warms up in 2025, here are some top picks to elevate your outdoor fun.
Quick Look: Top Yard Games for 2025
CornholePutterBallSpikeballGiant JengaKan JamLadder TossCroquetBocce BallBadmintonYard PongHorseshoesPickleballGiant ChessSelecting the perfect yard game for spring involves considering your available space and the number of players. Dive into the details below for the best outdoor games of 2025.
Cornhole
GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole is a beloved staple at outdoor gatherings. The setup is straightforward: two boards with holes and sets of bags to toss. Play with two players (one per side) or four (two per side) for a fun, casual match.
Opt for wooden cornhole sets for better durability and smoother gameplay, as plastic versions often have more bounce. Collapsible sets are also available for easy transport and storage.
PutterBall
PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
3See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
For small spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall is a fantastic choice. This game blends yard pong with golf, where players putt to sink balls into cups on the opponent’s board. The first team to fill all six cups wins, but the opposing team gets a chance to catch up by sinking all cups in a row.
Its compact setup and relaxed pace make it ideal for casual hangouts.
Spikeball
Spikeball Standard Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
Spikeball, a dynamic blend of volleyball and foursquare, is a newer addition to outdoor games. Two teams of two players spike a ball into a central net, aiming to keep it off the ground. The serving team starts, and the opposing team collaborates to return the ball to the net.
The official Spikeball set includes a net, balls, carrying case, and rulebook. While cheaper knockoffs exist, the official set offers superior quality. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit with a sturdier net and enhanced ball design.
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules
For a low-effort, dexterity-based game, Giant Jenga is a perfect fit. Unlike regular Jenga, the oversized version stacks over four feet tall, amplifying the excitement. The rules remain the same, but the larger scale adds a thrilling twist.
Choose from various sizes, and ensure a safe area clear of small children or pets when the tower falls.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
Kan Jam combines frisbee tossing with teamwork. Two teams set up cans 50 feet apart, aiming to score by hitting the can or landing the frisbee in its slots. The non-throwing teammate can assist by redirecting the frisbee, adding an interactive element.
Ideal for spacious yards or beach outings, Kan Jam thrives in open areas.
Ladder Toss
GoSports Premium Ladder Toss
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules
Ladder Toss, also called Ladder Golf, is a simple yet engaging game similar to cornhole. Players toss bolas (two balls connected by a string) to wrap around ladder rungs for points. Opponents can knock off bolas to steal points, adding a competitive edge.
Its compact setup makes it great for smaller yards, and PVC versions are just as fun as traditional wooden ones.
Croquet
GoSports Croquet Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
Croquet, dating back to 14th-century France, remains a charming lawn game. Players use mallets to hit balls through customizable hoop courses. Its leisurely pace and minimal space requirements make it ideal for relaxed family gatherings.
Bocce
Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
Bocce, with roots in 5200 B.C., is a simple yet addictive game growing in U.S. popularity. Players toss a small ball (the pallino) and aim larger balls as close to it as possible. Teams compete to score by proximity and can knock opponents’ balls away.
Its portability and lack of setup make Bocce perfect for quick, casual play.
Badminton
Franklin Sports Badminton Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Similar to tennis, Badminton uses rackets to hit a shuttlecock over a net. This Olympic sport demands hand-eye coordination but is accessible to all skill levels. The net doubles as a volleyball net, adding versatility.
Setup requires some effort, but the payoff is a fun, active game for small groups.
Yard Pong
Yard Pong
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Yard Pong scales up beer pong for outdoor fun, using buckets instead of cups. Teams aim to land balls in opponents’ buckets, with house rules dictating bounces or simultaneous shots. It’s a lively, customizable game for casual gatherings.
Horseshoes
Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes is a classic game where teams toss horseshoes to ring or land near a stake for points. While a pit is ideal, stakes and shoes suffice for backyard play. Metal sets offer authenticity, but plastic versions are safer for kids.
Pickleball Set
Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules
Pickleball, blending tennis and ping pong, is a U.S. favorite. Players use paddles to hit a perforated ball over a net. A portable net set, including balls and a carrying case, makes home play easy on any hard surface. Paddles are sold separately.
Giant Chess Set
MegaChess Large Chess Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
Take chess outdoors with the MegaChess Large Chess Set, featuring 12-inch pieces and a 4x4-foot mat. This practical, storable set follows standard chess rules, scaled up for backyard fun. Explore traditional chess sets for indoor options.
Choosing the Perfect Yard Game
The ideal lawn game depends on your space, group size, and preferences. Small yards suit compact games, while larger groups need games supporting more players. Ultimately, pick a game that sparks joy for you and your crew.
Best Yard Games for Small Spaces
For tight yards, choose games with minimal setup. Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong require only a small, flat surface, perfect for two players. Cornhole and Kan Jam need more room, making them less ideal.
Top Beach Games
Many yard games adapt well to the beach, but sand changes the dynamics. Spikeball excels with its soft landing for dives. Badminton and Kan Jam work too, though wind can affect play.
Best Games for Large Yards
Spacious backyards allow for versatile games like Badminton or Kan Jam, which use open areas effectively. Bocce and Croquet can also be expanded across larger spaces for added fun.
Equipment-Free Yard Games
For budget-friendly fun, try equipment-free games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or classic tag. These require only a decent-sized outdoor space and plenty of enthusiasm.
