When the sun is out and your yard beckons, there's nothing quite like engaging in a fun lawn game to gather friends and family outdoors. As the weather warms up in 2025, there's a wide array of yard games to choose from, ranging from timeless classics to exciting new additions. Whether you're looking to host a backyard bash or simply enjoy some outdoor fun, here are my top picks for the best yard games of 2025.
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 involves considering several factors, such as the size of your yard and the number of people playing. Below, I dive into the details of each game to help you find the perfect fit for your outdoor gatherings.
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. You'll need two boards with holes and sets of bags to get started. Whether you're playing with two or four people, the objective is to toss your bags onto the board and into the hole for points. For the best experience, opt for a wooden set, which offers less bounce and smoother sliding. Collapsible sets are also great for those on the go.
PutterBall
### PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
3See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
For those with limited space, PutterBall is an excellent choice. This game combines the fun of yard pong with the precision of putting. Players take turns trying to sink golf balls into cups on the opponent's side, making it a perfect, leisurely game for decks, patios, or small yards.
Spikeball
### Spikeball Standard Set
1See it at AmazonNumber 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 aim to spike a ball into a circular net. It's a high-energy game that's sure to get everyone moving. The official Spikeball set includes everything you need, though cheaper knock-offs are available. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit with its enhanced net and ball.
Giant Jenga
### Giant Jenga
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Official Jenga Rules
Giant Jenga offers a fun test of dexterity without requiring much athletic skill. The larger scale adds to the excitement, with towers reaching over 4 feet. 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 is perfect for those who enjoy a good frisbee throw. Set up two cans 50 feet apart and aim to score by hitting the can or getting the frisbee into various holes. It's ideal for larger spaces, making it a great choice for big 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, is easy to play and doesn't require much space. The goal is to wrap bolas around the rungs of a ladder, with each rung worth different points. It's a relaxing game that's perfect for all ages.
Croquet
### GoSports Croquet Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
Croquet, a game with roots in 14th century France, remains a delightful choice for leisurely play. Players use mallets to knock balls through hoops in a customizable course. It's perfect for a relaxed gathering with family and friends.
Bocce
### Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
Bocce, dating back to 5200 B.C., is simple yet engaging. Teams aim to get their larger balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball. It's portable and requires no setup, making it an easy choice for quick games.
Badminton
### Franklin Sports Badminton Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton combines elements of tennis and pickleball, using a shuttlecock instead of a ball. It's an Olympic sport that requires good hand-eye coordination. Once set up, the net can also be used for volleyball, adding to its versatility.
Yard Pong
### Yard Pong
0See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Yard Pong is the outdoor version of beer pong, using buckets instead of cups. The rules can vary, but the objective is to land balls in the opponent's buckets. Remember, no actual beer in the buckets, please!
Horseshoes
### Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
2See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes can be set up in your backyard with stakes and horseshoes. The goal is to ring the stake or get close to it for points. Metal sets are recommended, but plastic versions are safer for kids.
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 one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S. A portable net allows you to play at home on any hard surface. Just remember to buy the paddles separately.
Giant Chess Set
### MegaChess Large Chess Set
1See it at AmazonNumber of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For a strategic outdoor game, consider a giant chess set. The MegaChess set from Amazon is practical, with 12-inch pieces and a 4x4 ft mat. It's easy to store and perfect for chess enthusiasts looking to play outside.
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, requiring minimal space. If you're heading to the beach, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are great choices, though wind can affect play. For larger yards, consider badminton, Kan Jam, or spread-out games like Bocce or Croquet.
If you're looking for games without equipment, classic options like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are perfect for a spontaneous outdoor adventure.
