Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active and Play!

When the sun is out and the yard beckons, nothing beats the joy of playing fun lawn games to bring friends and family together. As we gear up for spring 2025, there's a wide array of yard games to choose from, ranging from timeless classics to exciting new additions. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to enjoy some outdoor time, here are some of the best yard games to consider for a fantastic outdoor experience.

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

Selecting the right yard game involves considering several factors such as the size of your space and the number of players. Here's a closer look at some of the top picks for outdoor fun in 2025.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a quintessential yard game found at gatherings everywhere. The game involves tossing bean bags onto a slanted board with a hole, aiming to score points by landing the bags in the hole or on the board. It's perfect for 2 to 4 players, and wooden sets are preferred for their stability and playability, though collapsible options are great for portability.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: PutterBall Rules

PutterBall is ideal for smaller spaces like decks or patios. It combines the fun of golf and pong, where players take turns putting balls into cups arranged on the opposite side. It's an engaging and leisurely game that's perfect for social gatherings.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

Spikeball brings a fresh twist to yard games, blending elements of volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two hit a ball onto a small trampoline-like net, with the opposing team needing to return it before it hits the ground. It's an energetic game that's sure to get everyone moving.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

For those who enjoy games of skill without needing much athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a must-have. This oversized version of the classic game adds an extra thrill as players carefully remove and stack blocks, hoping not to topple the tower.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam is perfect for those who love throwing frisbees. Players aim to hit or land the frisbee in a canister, with points awarded based on accuracy. It's great for larger spaces and can be a hit at the beach or in a spacious backyard.

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 on strings) to wrap around rungs on a ladder, scoring points based on the rung hit. It's a relaxed game that's easy to set up and doesn't require much space.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Croquet Official Rules

Croquet, with its origins in 14th-century France, remains a delightful choice for leisurely outdoor play. Players use mallets to hit balls through a series of wickets, offering a customizable course that's perfect for family gatherings.

Bocce Ball

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-8

Rules: Bocce Official Rules

Bocce is one of the oldest games listed, dating back to 5200 B.C. Players aim to get their larger balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball, making it a simple yet strategic game suitable for all ages.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton is an engaging game that's easy to set up yet challenging to master. Players hit a shuttlecock back and forth over a net, requiring hand-eye coordination. The net can also double as a volleyball setup for added versatility.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

Yard Pong brings the fun of beer pong to the outdoors, using buckets instead of cups. It's a flexible game where house rules can vary, making it a fun and customizable option for backyard parties.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is a classic game where players aim to ring horseshoes around a stake. It's best played in a dedicated pit, but can be enjoyed in any backyard with enough space. Metal sets are recommended for durability, while plastic versions are safer for kids.

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. Played with paddles and a wiffleball, it's perfect for those with enough space to set up a net. This portable set includes everything you need except the paddles.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2

Rules: Chess Official Rules

For chess enthusiasts looking to play outdoors, a Giant Chess Set is a stunning addition to any yard. The MegaChess set features 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, making it a practical choice for outdoor play.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Choosing the perfect lawn game depends on various factors, including yard space, the 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 top picks. For larger spaces, consider badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce Ball, or Croquet. If you're looking for games without equipment, classic options like capture the flag, hide and seek, and tag are great choices.

Remember, the key to a great yard game is ensuring it's enjoyable for everyone involved. So, pick a game that matches your group's energy and interests, and get ready for hours of outdoor fun in 2025!