As the sun shines brighter and the warmth of spring 2025 beckons, there's no better time to enjoy the outdoors with engaging lawn games. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for some fun in the sun, there's a yard game out there for everyone. From timeless classics to modern favorites, here's a curated list of the best yard games to elevate your outdoor gatherings.
TL;DR – Top Yard Games for 2025
- Cornhole
- PutterBall
- Spikeball
- Giant Jenga
- Kan Jam
- Ladder Toss
- Croquet
- Bocce Ball
- Badminton
- Yard Pong
- Horseshoes
- Pickleball
- Giant Chess
Selecting the perfect yard game involves considering your available space and the number of participants. Below, I delve into my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025, providing detailed insights to help you make the best choice.
Cornhole
GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole is a beloved classic that's easy to set up and play. All you need are two boards with holes and sets of bags. It can be enjoyed with 2 or 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. While wooden sets are pricier, they offer a better playing experience with less bounce and smoother bag sliding. For those on the move, collapsible sets are a great travel-friendly option.
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 with the simplicity of yard pong. Players take turns putting balls into cups, aiming to fill the opponent's side first. It's perfect for a laid-back game that encourages socializing.
Spikeball
Spikeball Standard Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A newer addition to yard games, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare into an energetic and competitive game. Two teams of two players spike a ball into a net, striving to keep it in play before it hits the ground. The official set is recommended for its quality, though less expensive alternatives 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 must-have. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall. It's crucial to ensure safety by keeping small children and pets at a distance when the tower falls.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
Kan Jam combines frisbee throwing with a twist, requiring teamwork to score points by hitting or landing a frisbee into designated slots. It's perfect for larger spaces, like expansive backyards or beaches.
Ladder Toss
GoSports Premium Ladder Toss
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules
Also known as Ladder Golf or Ladder Ball, this game involves tossing bolas at a ladder to score points. It's relaxing and suitable for smaller spaces, available in various materials from PVC to wood.
Croquet
GoSports Croquet Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
With roots dating back to 14th century France, Croquet is a delightful game that involves hitting balls through hoops with mallets. It's customizable and perfect for a leisurely gathering, requiring minimal space.
Bocce
Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
One of the oldest games on the list, Bocce involves rolling larger balls close to a smaller target ball. It's simple, portable, and ideal for quick, easy setup.
Badminton
Franklin Sports Badminton Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton, akin to tennis but played with a shuttlecock, is both fun and challenging. It requires some setup but offers versatility as a volleyball net as well. It's also available in virtual form on the 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 and balls, following similar house rules. It's a great way to enjoy the classic game outdoors without the need for a large space.
Horseshoes
Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
While ideally played in a pit, Horseshoes can be set up in any backyard with stakes and shoes. Real metal sets are recommended, but 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
As one of the fastest-growing sports, Pickleball combines elements of tennis and ping pong. A portable set allows you to play at home, though paddles are sold separately.
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 game outdoors. The MegaChess set is practical, with pieces up to 12 inches tall and a 4x4 ft mat, making it easy to store.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on your yard size, the number of players, and their preferences. For small yards, opt for games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are excellent choices. In larger spaces, consider badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet.
What's the Best Yard Game for Small Yards?
For limited space, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal, requiring minimal setup and room.
What's the Best Beach Game?
Spikeball stands out at the beach, with sand providing a safe playing surface. Badminton and Kan Jam are also great, though weather conditions can affect play.
What's the Best Yard Game for Big Yards?
With ample space, you can enjoy games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet, spreading out the fun across a larger area.
What Yard Games Can You Play Without Equipment?
For equipment-free fun, consider classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag, all of which require just a space to play.
With this guide, you're all set to choose the perfect yard game for your outdoor adventures in 2025. Whether it's a small gathering or a large party, there's a game that will keep everyone entertained and active.
