As the sun beckons and the yard calls your name, there's nothing quite like a fun lawn game to bring everyone together outdoors. Whether you're a fan of timeless classics or eager to try out new experiences, there's a plethora of yard games perfect for enjoying the warmer weather of 2025. Here’s a rundown of some of the best options to elevate 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
When choosing the ideal yard game for your springtime fun, consider the space you have available and the number of players. Below, you'll find detailed insights into each game to help you make the best choice for your outdoor adventures.
Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole remains a staple in the world of yard games, beloved for its simplicity and versatility. The game involves tossing bean bags onto a slanted board with a hole, aiming to score points. Whether you're playing with two players on opposite sides or teaming up in groups of four, cornhole is a hit at any gathering. While plastic sets are available, wooden ones offer better playability due to less bounce and smoother bag sliding. For those on the go, collapsible sets are a convenient choice.
PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
For those with limited space, PutterBall is an excellent choice. This game combines the fun of golf with the social aspect of yard pong, using putters to navigate balls into cups. It's perfect for smaller decks or patios and offers a relaxed pace, making it ideal for casual hangouts.
Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
Spikeball, a newer addition to the yard game scene, blends volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two compete to hit a ball into a circular net, keeping it in play to score points. It's an energetic game that's sure to get everyone moving. The official Spikeball set is recommended for its quality, though less expensive alternatives exist. For those looking for an upgrade, the Spikeball Pro Kit offers enhanced durability and performance.
Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules
Giant Jenga brings the classic game to a larger scale, perfect for outdoor fun. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet in height. It's an excellent choice for those who prefer games that require dexterity rather than athletic prowess. Just ensure the area is clear of small children and pets to avoid any mishaps when the tower tumbles.
Kan Jam

Kan Jam
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
Kan Jam is a dynamic game that involves throwing a frisbee at a can, with teammates assisting to score points. It's perfect for larger spaces like expansive backyards or beaches, requiring about 50 feet between the two cans. It's a fun, engaging way to enjoy the outdoors with friends.
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 or Ladder Ball, is a relaxing game that's easy to set up and play. Players aim to wrap bola balls around the rungs of a ladder to score points. It's suitable for smaller yards and can be played with various materials, from PVC pipes to wooden ladders.
Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
Croquet, with roots tracing back to 14th century France, remains a charming choice for leisurely play. Players use mallets to guide balls through hoops, customizable to fit your yard's layout. It's perfect for a relaxed gathering and can accommodate 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 games on this list, dates back to 5200 B.C. It's simple yet engaging, involving teams rolling larger balls toward a smaller target ball. Its portability and minimal setup make it an excellent choice for spontaneous outdoor fun.
Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton, akin to tennis and pickleball, uses a shuttlecock and rackets. It's an Olympic sport that demands good hand-eye coordination. While setting up the net requires some effort, it can also serve as a volleyball net, offering versatility. Note that both badminton and volleyball can be enjoyed virtually on the Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong

Yard Pong
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Yard Pong brings the fun of beer pong to the outdoors, using buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized to suit your group's preferences, making it a versatile and entertaining choice. Remember, keep it fun and safe—avoid using actual beer in the buckets.
Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes, traditionally played in a pit, can be set up in any backyard with stakes and horseshoes. The objective is to ring the stake or land close to it to score points. Metal sets are recommended for durability, 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 rapidly growing sport, blends elements of tennis and ping pong. With a portable net and a hard surface, you can enjoy this game at home. Paddles are sold separately, but the set includes everything else you need to get started.
Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For chess enthusiasts, a giant chess set adds a unique twist to outdoor play. The MegaChess set, with its 12-inch tall pieces and 4x4 ft mat, is a practical choice for backyard games. It retains the traditional rules of chess, just on a grander scale.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on various factors, including yard space, the number of players, and their preferences. Small yards may benefit from games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal space. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are excellent choices, though weather conditions can affect play. Larger yards open up options like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, and Croquet, allowing for more expansive setups.
If you're looking for equipment-free fun, consider classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag. These require only space and a willingness to engage, making them perfect for spontaneous outdoor enjoyment.
By considering these factors, you can choose the yard game that best suits your outdoor space and the company you keep, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable time in the sun.