When the sun is out and your yard beckons, nothing beats a lively lawn game to gather friends and family for some outdoor fun. As we welcome warmer days in 2025, here's a curated list of the best yard games that promise hours of entertainment, ranging from classic favorites to exciting new additions.
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
Choosing the right yard game this spring involves considering several factors, such as available space and the number of expected players. Below, you'll find detailed insights into each of my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025.
Cornhole
### GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole remains a beloved classic, found at gatherings everywhere. The game's simplicity is its charm—you just need two boards with holes and sets of bags. It's versatile, playable with 2 or 4 players. While there are numerous cornhole sets available, wooden ones are preferable for their reduced bounce and smoother bag glide. For those on the move, collapsible sets are a convenient choice.
PutterBall
### PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
3See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
Perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall brings the fun of indoor golf outdoors. It's essentially yard pong with putters, where teams aim to fill the opponent's cups. Its slow pace makes it an ideal hangout game, easily set up in any space.
Spikeball
### Spikeball Standard Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A newcomer to the yard game scene, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players spike a ball into a net, keeping it off the ground. It's a high-energy game that guarantees a sweat. The official set includes a net, balls, a carrying case, and rulebook, though cheaper knock-offs exist. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit with its enhanced net and ball design.
Giant Jenga
### Giant Jenga
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules
For a fun dexterity challenge without needing athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is the go-to. Available in various sizes, the standard set towers over 4 feet. The rules are the same as regular Jenga, just on a grander scale. Be cautious of the inevitable topple, keeping small children and pets at a safe distance.
Kan Jam
### Kan Jam
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
If you enjoy frisbee and competitive throwing, Kan Jam is for you. It's like cornhole with frisbees, where teams score by hitting or landing the frisbee in cans set 50 feet apart. Ideal for larger spaces like big backyards or beaches.
Ladder Toss
### GoSports Premium Ladder Toss
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules
Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Golf or Ladder Ball, is a relaxing game akin to horseshoes or cornhole. Players aim to wrap balls on strings around different rungs of a ladder for points. It's easy to play and doesn't require much space, making it versatile for any yard.
Croquet
### GoSports Croquet Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
With roots tracing back to 14th century France, Croquet remains a delightful choice. Players use wooden mallets to guide balls through customizable courses. It's leisurely and accommodates up to six players, perfect for family gatherings.
Bocce Ball
### Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
Bocce, one of the oldest games listed, dates back to 5200 B.C. Its resurgence in the U.S. is due to its simplicity. Teams aim to get larger balls close to a smaller ball, scoring points and knocking opponents out. It's highly portable and requires no setup, making it ideal for quick play.
Badminton
### Franklin Sports Badminton Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton, akin to tennis and pickleball, uses a shuttlecock instead of a ball. Though simple, it's an Olympic sport requiring good hand-eye coordination. Setting up the net is the only downside, but it doubles as a volleyball net, enhancing its utility. Note that both badminton and volleyball can be enjoyed virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong
### Yard Pong
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
For beer pong enthusiasts wanting an outdoor twist, Yard Pong is the answer. It's played with buckets instead of cups, following similar rules but adapted to household preferences. Remember, no beer in the buckets, please!
Horseshoes
### Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes can be enjoyed in a pit or any yard with stakes. The aim is to ring horseshoes around the stake for points. Metal sets are recommended, though plastic versions are safer for kids and easier to throw.
Pickleball Set
### Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules
Pickleball, a burgeoning U.S. favorite, blends tennis and ping pong. Played with paddles and a wiffleball, it's best on a court but adaptable with this portable set. Just ensure a hard surface for the ball to bounce and enough space for the net.
Giant Chess Set
### MegaChess Large Chess Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For outdoor chess enthusiasts, giant chess sets offer a fun twist. The MegaChess set is practical with 12-inch pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, perfect for storage. Traditional chess rules apply, just on a larger scale. Explore more chess sets for indoor play.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the ideal lawn game depends on various factors: yard size, number of players, and their preferences. Smaller yards suit games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong, which require minimal space. Larger spaces can accommodate games like badminton, Kan Jam, or spread-out Bocce and Croquet.
What's the Best Yard Game for Small Yards?
For limited space, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are perfect, requiring only a small, flat surface and accommodating a few players. Games like cornhole and Kan Jam might need more room.
What's the Best Beach Game?
Beach-friendly games include Spikeball, thanks to the soft sand for diving. Badminton and Kan Jam are also good, though weather conditions like wind can affect play.
What's the Best Yard Game for Big Yards?
With ample space, consider badminton, Kan Jam, or expansive games of Bocce and Croquet, utilizing the full area of your yard.
What Yard Games Can You Play Without Equipment?
For those avoiding equipment costs and storage, classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag offer endless outdoor fun without any gear.
