Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Active!

When the sun is out and the yard beckons, nothing beats gathering friends and family for some fun lawn games. As we embrace the warmer months of 2025, there's a plethora of yard games available, from timeless classics to innovative new favorites. Here's a curated list of the best yard games that are sure to enhance your outdoor gatherings.

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 depends on several factors, including the size of your yard and the number of players. Below, I'll dive into the details of each game to help you make an informed decision.

Cornhole

### GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a staple at outdoor gatherings, loved for its simplicity and social appeal. The game involves tossing bean bags onto a slanted board with a hole. You can play with 2 players on opposite sides or 4 players in teams. Opt for wooden sets over plastic for better play; they offer less bounce and smoother bag slides. Collapsible sets are great for portability.

PutterBall

### PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: PutterBall Rules

Perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall combines golf and beer pong. Players take turns putting golf balls into cups, aiming to fill their opponent's cups before they fill yours. It's an ideal game for a relaxed hangout.

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. Two teams of two players each volley a ball onto a small trampoline-like net. It's fast-paced and energetic, ensuring everyone gets a workout. The official set is recommended for quality, though knock-off versions are cheaper.

Giant Jenga

### Giant Jenga

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

For a game that tests dexterity and doesn't require much space, Giant Jenga is a hit. The larger blocks make the game more exciting and challenging. Be cautious of falling blocks, especially around kids and pets.

Kan Jam

### Kan Jam

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

If you enjoy throwing frisbees, Kan Jam is for you. It's like cornhole but with a frisbee, requiring teamwork and a bit of space. Ideal for larger yards or beach outings.

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, this game is simple yet engaging. Players toss bolas (balls connected by a string) to wrap around rungs on a ladder, scoring points. It's relaxing and requires minimal space.

Croquet

### GoSports Croquet Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Croquet Official Rules

Croquet, with its roots in 14th-century France, offers a leisurely and customizable experience. Players use mallets to hit balls through hoops. It's perfect for a relaxed family gathering.

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 this list, Bocce involves tossing larger balls toward a smaller ball. It's simple, portable, and can be played anywhere with minimal setup.

Badminton

### Franklin Sports Badminton Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton requires some setup but offers a fun, competitive experience. It's similar to tennis but uses a shuttlecock. The net can double as a volleyball net, adding versatility.

Yard Pong

### Yard Pong

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

A larger version of beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. It's customizable and great for casual gatherings, though it's best to avoid using actual beer.

Horseshoes

### Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

A classic game, Horseshoes involves tossing shoes around stakes to score points. Metal sets are recommended, though plastic versions are safer for younger players.

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 gaining popularity. This portable set includes a net and balls, but you'll need to buy paddles separately.

Giant Chess Set

### MegaChess Large Chess Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2

Rules: Chess Official Rules

For chess enthusiasts, a giant set transforms the classic game into an outdoor spectacle. The MegaChess set is practical and easy to store.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on factors like yard space, number of players, and preferences. For small yards, consider games like Giant Jenga or PutterBall that require minimal space. For beach outings, Spikeball and Kan Jam are excellent choices due to the soft landing provided by sand.

For larger yards, you can opt for more expansive games like Badminton or Croquet. If you're looking for games without equipment, classics like capture the flag or hide and seek are fun alternatives.

Ultimately, the best yard game is one that brings joy and entertainment to your outdoor gatherings. Choose based on what you and your group will enjoy the most.