Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

As the warmth of 2025 beckons you outdoors, there's no better way to enjoy the sunshine than with a lively yard game. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just spending a lazy afternoon with family and friends, the right lawn game can turn any outdoor space into a hub of fun and laughter. From time-honored classics to innovative new additions, here's a curated list of the best yard games to elevate your outdoor experience this year.

TL;DR – The Top Yard Games for 2025

• Cornhole
• PutterBall
• Spikeball
• Giant Jenga
• Kan Jam
• Ladder Toss
• Croquet
• Bocce Ball
• Badminton
• Yard Pong
• Horseshoes
• Pickleball
• Giant Chess

Choosing the perfect yard game depends on several factors, including the size of your space and the number of players. Below, I've detailed each game to help you find the perfect match for your outdoor gatherings.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a staple at outdoor events, beloved for its simplicity and accessibility. All you need are two boards with holes and sets of bags. It's perfect for 2 to 4 players, and wooden sets offer a smoother play experience, though collapsible versions are great for portability.

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 yard pong with golf. Players take turns putting balls into cups, making it a relaxing game that's perfect for socializing.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

A newer addition to the yard game scene, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two players hit a ball into a net, keeping it aloft to score points. It's an energetic game that's perfect for those looking to get active.

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 much physical exertion, Giant Jenga is a fantastic choice. Available in various sizes, it's a fun twist on the classic game, though you'll want to keep pets and small children at a safe distance when the tower falls.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules

If frisbees and precision are your thing, Kan Jam is a must-try. Teams score points by hitting or throwing the frisbee into cans, making it ideal for larger spaces like big backyards or beaches.

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, is easy to learn and play. Teams aim to wrap bola balls around different rungs on a ladder, each worth varying points. It's a laid-back game that's perfect for any backyard.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules

A game with roots dating back to 14th-century France, Croquet remains a charming option for leisurely play. Players hit balls through hoops with mallets, customizable to fit any yard size.

Bocce Ball

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 tossing larger balls to get as close as possible to a smaller target ball. It's simple, portable, and perfect 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 but requires some skill to master. It's perfect for a quick setup and can double as a volleyball net for added versatility.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules

A fun twist on beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. It's customizable and great for casual outdoor fun, though remember to keep it family-friendly.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is a classic game that's simple to set up and play. Teams aim to ring horseshoes around stakes, scoring points based on proximity and positioning.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., blending elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set is perfect for home play on any hard surface.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules

For a strategic outdoor experience, Giant Chess brings the classic game to life in your yard. The MegaChess set is a practical choice, offering easy storage and a reasonable size for outdoor play.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on various factors, including your yard's size, the number of players, and the group's interests. For small yards, opt for games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. If you're heading to the beach, Spikeball and badminton are excellent choices, while larger yards can accommodate games like badminton, Kan Jam, or even expansive setups of Bocce or Croquet.

For those looking for equipment-free fun, consider classics like capture the flag, hide and seek, or tag, which require nothing more than open space and enthusiasm.

With these options, you're ready to make the most of your outdoor time in 2025, creating memorable moments with friends and family.