Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

When the sun is out and your yard beckons, nothing beats the joy of engaging in fun lawn games to bring friends and family together outdoors. As we embrace the warmer days of 2025, choosing the right yard game can transform your outdoor space into a hub of entertainment. From timeless classics to innovative new favorites, here's a curated list of the best yard games to elevate your outdoor experience 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

Selecting the perfect yard game involves considering factors like your available space and the number of players. Below, I'll dive into my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025, complete with details on each.

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 gathering. The game's simplicity—tossing bags into a hole on a board—makes it accessible to everyone. Whether you're playing with two or four players, the key is to have a quality set. Wooden cornhole sets are preferred for their smoother glide and reduced bounce, though collapsible sets offer great portability for on-the-go fun.

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 brings the fun of golf pong to your outdoor setting. It's a leisurely game that involves putters and cups, perfect for a relaxed hangout. Each team aims to fill the opponent's cups, adding a competitive edge to the fun.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

Spikeball combines elements of volleyball and foursquare, making it a dynamic and engaging choice for active players. Teams of two compete to spike a ball into a net, keeping it in play to prevent it from hitting the ground. The official Spikeball set is the best choice, offering durability and the complete rulebook, though more affordable knock-offs are available.

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. The oversized blocks add excitement to the classic game, scaling up the challenge and fun. Ensure you have a clear space for the inevitable toppling of the tower, keeping children and pets at a safe distance.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam offers a unique twist on frisbee games, perfect for larger spaces. Teams work together to score points by hitting or throwing the frisbee into the cans. It's an excellent choice for expansive backyards or beach outings, where space allows for full engagement.

Ladder Toss

GoSports Premium Ladder Toss

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules

Ladder Toss, or 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 the ladder, each scoring varying points. It's a versatile game that doesn't require much space, making it suitable for various yard sizes.

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 remains a charming and leisurely lawn game. Players navigate balls through hoops with mallets, offering customizable course setups. It's perfect for a relaxed gathering, accommodating up to six players.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-8

Rules: Bocce Official Rules

Bocce, one of the oldest lawn games, is gaining popularity in the U.S. for its simplicity and fun. Teams aim to get their balls closest to a smaller target ball, making it an easy and portable choice for quick outdoor play.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton, akin to tennis and pickleball, offers fast-paced action with shuttlecocks and rackets. It requires setting up a net, which doubles as a volleyball net for added versatility. It's an Olympic sport that demands coordination, making it both challenging and enjoyable.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

Yard Pong brings the fun of beer pong outdoors, using buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized to suit your group, offering a fun and flexible game for gatherings. Remember to keep it family-friendly without actual beer in the buckets.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is best enjoyed in a pit but can be set up anywhere with stakes and shoes. Teams aim to ring the stakes or land close to score points, offering a classic backyard game experience. Opt for metal sets for durability or plastic for safety with young children.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball, a blend of tennis and ping pong, is surging in popularity. This portable set allows you to play on any hard surface with enough space, complete with a net, balls, and a carrying case. 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, Giant Chess brings the classic game outdoors. The MegaChess set is practical and easy to store, with pieces up to 12 inches tall and a 4x4 ft mat. It's perfect for a thoughtful and engaging outdoor activity.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the ideal lawn game depends on several factors, including your yard size, the number of players, and their preferences. For small yards, opt for games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are great choices, though consider wind conditions. Larger yards offer more flexibility, allowing for games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet over a wider area.

If you're looking for entertainment without equipment, consider classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag, which only need space and enthusiasm.

By choosing the right yard game, you can ensure that your outdoor gatherings in 2025 are filled with laughter, competition, and lasting memories.