When the sun is out and the yard beckons, there's nothing quite like a fun lawn game to bring people together. With the warmer weather in 2025, it's the perfect time to explore a variety of yard games, from timeless classics to exciting new options. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or a friendly get-together, I've curated a list of my top picks for the best yard games to elevate your outdoor fun.

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

Selecting the perfect yard game involves considering several factors, including the size of your yard and the number of players. Below, I'll delve into the details of my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

2See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a beloved classic that's ubiquitous at outdoor gatherings. The game is straightforward, requiring only two boards with holes and sets of bags. You can enjoy it with 2 players, one on each side, or expand to 4 players, with 2 on each side.

When choosing a cornhole set, opt for wooden ones over plastic for a better playing experience. Wooden sets may cost more, but they offer less bounce and smoother bag sliding. For portability, consider collapsible sets ideal for travel.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

3See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: PutterBall Rules

PutterBall is perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios. It's an indoor golf game that seamlessly transitions outdoors, resembling yard pong but with putters. Players take turns filling cups on the opponent's side, and once a team fills all six cups, the other team has a chance to catch up by making them in a row.

This game is easy to set up and its leisurely pace makes it ideal for casual hangouts.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

Spikeball brings a fresh twist to yard games, blending elements of volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players each play across a net, spiking a ball into it. The opposing team must return the ball into the net before it touches the ground, making it an energetic and engaging game.

Invest in the official Spikeball set, which includes the net, balls, a carrying case, and the rulebook. While knock-off versions are cheaper, they may not match the quality of the original. For an enhanced experience, consider upgrading to the Spikeball Pro Kit with its stronger net and updated ball design.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

For a game that tests dexterity without requiring athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a fantastic choice. While regular Jenga can be played outdoors, the giant version adds an extra layer of fun and excitement.

Giant Jenga sets come in various sizes, with the standard reaching over 4 feet tall. The gameplay remains the same, just on a larger scale. Ensure safety by keeping small children and pets away when the tower inevitably topples.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam offers a unique experience for frisbee enthusiasts. It's like cornhole but with frisbees and more active involvement from the non-throwing team. Set up the cans 50 feet apart and score points by hitting or getting the frisbee into different holes.

This game is ideal for larger spaces, such as expansive backyards or beach outings.

Ladder Toss

GoSports Premium Ladder Toss

0See 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 simple yet engaging game similar to horseshoes or cornhole. Play one-on-one or in teams of two, aiming to wrap the balls on a string around the ladder rungs, which offer varying point values. Opponents can knock your balls off to nullify your points.

This game is relaxing and suitable for smaller yards, with versions available in PVC and plastic, as well as more traditional wooden sets.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Croquet Official Rules

Croquet, dating back to 14th-century France, remains a delightful choice. Players use wooden mallets to guide balls through hoops, with the course layout being fully customizable.

It's a leisurely game perfect for up to six players and doesn't require extensive yard space. Ideal for family gatherings, croquet offers a timeless and enjoyable experience.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-8

Rules: Bocce Official Rules

Bocce, one of the oldest lawn games, dates back to 5200 B.C. It's gaining popularity in the U.S. due to its simplicity. Toss a smaller ball into the yard, then aim to get the larger balls as close as possible to it.

Played in teams, Bocce is highly portable and requires no setup, making it perfect for quick and easy fun.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton is akin to tennis or pickleball but uses a shuttlecock. Players hit it back and forth over a net, requiring good hand-eye coordination. Though setting up the net can be a task, it doubles as a volleyball net, offering versatility.

Both badminton and volleyball are also playable virtually via Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

Yard Pong is a larger-scale version of beer pong, using buckets instead of cups. The goal is to land a ball in each bucket on the opposing side. Rules can vary by household, making it customizable and fun. Just remember, no beer in the buckets!

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

2See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is traditionally played in a pit, but you can set it up in your backyard with stakes and horseshoes. Teams aim to ring the horseshoes around the stake or get close enough to score points.

For safety and durability, opt for metal sets, though plastic versions are available for younger players.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

0See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball, a blend of tennis and ping pong, is currently one of the most popular recreational sports in the U.S. Played with wooden paddles and a wiffleball, it's adaptable to home settings with a portable net and a hard surface.

This set includes the net, four pickleballs, and a carrying case, but paddles must be purchased separately.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

1See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2

Rules: Chess Official Rules

For chess enthusiasts looking to play outdoors, a giant chess set adds an exciting dimension. The MegaChess set, with 12-inch tall pieces and a 4x4 ft mat, is a practical choice for yard games. It retains the traditional rules of chess, just on a larger scale, and is easy to store.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Choosing the perfect lawn game depends on various factors, including yard space, number of players, and the type of people involved. Small yards favor games that require minimal space, like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong. For larger gatherings, consider games that can accommodate more players.

Ultimately, the most crucial factor is whether the game will be enjoyable for you and your group.

What's the Best Yard Game for Small Yards?

For limited space, opt for games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal setup and can be played with just two people. Games like cornhole and Kan Jam may require more room.

What's the Best Beach Game?

At the beach, Spikeball excels due to the soft sand. Badminton and Kan Jam are also good choices, depending on wind conditions.

What's the Best Yard Game for Big Yards?

With ample space, consider badminton, Kan Jam, or spreading out Bocce or Croquet for a more expansive play area.

What Yard Games Can You Play Without Equipment?

For equipment-free fun, consider games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or classic tag, all of which require just a decent-sized outdoor space.