When the sun is out and the yard beckons, nothing beats the joy of gathering friends and family for some outdoor fun with lawn games. Whether you're a fan of traditional pastimes or eager to try something new, the array of yard games available in 2025 offers something for everyone. As the weather warms up, let's dive into some of the top picks for enjoying the great outdoors.
TL;DR – Top 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 for your spring gatherings involves considering factors like available space and the number of players. Below, I'll detail some of the best outdoor yard games of 2025 to help you make the perfect choice.
Cornhole
#### GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole remains a staple of backyard fun, beloved for its simplicity and accessibility. All you need are two boards with holes and sets of bags. Whether you play with 2 or 4 players, the objective is to toss your bags onto the board or into the hole to score points. For the best experience, opt for a wooden set over plastic; they provide a smoother slide and less bounce. Collapsible sets are also available for those on the move.
PutterBall
#### PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
3See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
Ideal for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall brings the fun of golf pong to your yard. Players take turns putting balls into cups on the opponent's side, aiming to fill all six cups before the other team. It's a leisurely game perfect for socializing and can be set up almost anywhere.
Spikeball
#### Spikeball Standard Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A newer addition to the yard game scene, Spikeball combines elements of volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two face off across a net, aiming to spike a ball into the net and keep it in play. It's an energetic game that's sure to get everyone moving. The official Spikeball set is recommended for its quality, though less expensive knock-offs are available. For an upgrade, 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 game that tests dexterity without requiring athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a perfect choice. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall, making it a thrilling addition to any backyard gathering. Just be sure to keep small children and pets at a safe distance when the tower tumbles.
Kan Jam
#### Kan Jam
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
Kan Jam adds a twist to frisbee throwing, with players aiming to score points by hitting or landing a frisbee into cans. It's perfect for larger spaces, requiring about 50 feet between the two cans, making it ideal for expansive backyards or beach outings.
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 relaxed game suitable for all ages. Players aim to wrap balls on a string around different rungs of a ladder, each worth varying points. It's easy to set up and doesn't require much space, making it a versatile choice for any yard.
Croquet
#### GoSports Croquet Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
A timeless classic, Croquet offers a leisurely and customizable experience. Players use mallets to hit balls through hoops, with the course layout entirely up to you. It's perfect for a relaxed gathering and can accommodate up to six players.
Bocce
#### Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
One of the oldest games on this list, Bocce is simple yet engaging. Players aim to get their larger balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball. It's highly portable and requires no setup, making it an excellent choice for spontaneous fun.
Badminton
#### Franklin Sports Badminton Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton is a fast-paced game that's both fun and challenging. Players hit a shuttlecock back and forth over a net, requiring good hand-eye coordination. While setting up the net takes some effort, it can also serve as a volleyball net, offering dual functionality. For a virtual experience, consider playing on Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong
#### Yard Pong
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Inspired by beer pong, Yard Pong brings the game outdoors with buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized to suit your group, making it a flexible and fun option for backyard parties. Just remember to keep it family-friendly!
Horseshoes
#### Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes is a classic game that can be played in a pit or simply with stakes in the ground. Players aim to ring the horseshoe around the stake or get as close as possible to score points. Metal sets are recommended for durability, though plastic versions are safer for younger players.
Pickleball Set
#### Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Pickleball Official Rules
Pickleball, a blend of tennis and ping pong, is surging in popularity. This portable set includes a net, balls, and a carrying case, though paddles must be purchased separately. It's perfect for any hard surface and offers a fun, active way to enjoy your yard.
Giant Chess Set
#### MegaChess Large Chess Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For chess enthusiasts, a giant chess set brings the game to life outdoors. The MegaChess set is practical and easy to store, with pieces up to 12 inches tall and a 4x4 ft mat. It's a great way to enjoy strategic gameplay in the fresh air.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on several factors, including yard size, number of players, and personal preferences. For small yards, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal due to their minimal space requirements. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are top choices, though wind conditions may affect play. Larger yards offer more flexibility, with options like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, and Croquet allowing you to spread out and enjoy the space.
If you're looking for games without equipment, consider classics like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag. These require only space and imagination, making them perfect for spontaneous outdoor fun.
Ultimately, the best yard game is one that brings joy and laughter to your gatherings, so choose based on what you and your loved ones will enjoy most.
