Top Outdoor Yard Games for 2025: Get Playing!

As the warm weather beckons in 2025, there's nothing quite like gathering friends and family for some outdoor fun with engaging lawn games. Whether you're drawn to timeless classics or eager to try out the latest trends, there's a perfect yard game waiting for your next backyard gathering. Here are some top picks for the best yard games of 2025 that cater to different spaces, group sizes, and play styles.

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 selecting a yard game, consider the space available and the number of players. Below, I delve into each of these exciting options to help you find the perfect game for your spring gatherings.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole remains a beloved classic, perfect for any backyard party. The game involves tossing bean bags onto a board with a hole, aiming to score points. It's adaptable for 2 to 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. Opt for wooden sets over plastic for a better playing experience, as they offer less bounce and smoother bag slides. Collapsible sets are also available for those on the move.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: PutterBall Rules

For those with limited space, PutterBall is an excellent choice. This game transforms indoor golf into an outdoor delight, where players take turns putting golf balls into cups. It's a relaxed, enjoyable game perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

Spikeball introduces a fresh twist to yard games, blending volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two compete to hit a ball into a small, round net, creating a dynamic and energetic game. The official Spikeball set is recommended for the best experience, though more affordable knock-offs are available.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

Giant Jenga elevates the classic game to a thrilling outdoor challenge. Perfect for all ages, it requires minimal space and no athletic prowess—just steady hands. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet, ensuring a memorable toppling experience.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam is an engaging frisbee game where players aim to score by hitting or entering a frisbee into a can. It's ideal for larger spaces, making it perfect for big backyards or beach outings.

Ladder Toss

GoSports Premium Ladder Toss

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules

Ladder Toss, or Ladder Golf, is a relaxed yet competitive game suitable for all ages. Players toss bolas (two balls connected by a string) to wrap around different rungs of a ladder, scoring varying points. It's space-efficient and easy to set up, making it a great choice for any yard.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Croquet Official Rules

Croquet offers a leisurely yet strategic game for up to six players. With origins dating back to 14th-century France, this game involves hitting balls through hoops with mallets, customizable to any yard size.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

Number of Players: 2-8

Rules: Bocce Official Rules

Bocce, one of the oldest lawn games, is gaining popularity in the U.S. for its simplicity and portability. Players aim to get their larger balls closest to a smaller target ball, making it perfect for casual gatherings.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton combines the thrill of tennis with the finesse of a shuttlecock. It's an Olympic sport that requires a bit of setup but offers high engagement. The net can double as a volleyball net, adding versatility to your outdoor setup.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

Yard Pong brings the fun of beer pong outdoors with larger buckets and balls. It's customizable to house rules, making every game unique. Remember, it's best played without actual beer in the buckets.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is a classic game that's easy to set up in any backyard. Players aim to ring horseshoes around stakes, with points scored for proximity and accuracy. Metal sets are recommended, though plastic versions are safer for kids.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball, a popular U.S. recreational sport, blends elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set includes a net and balls, though paddles must be purchased separately. It's perfect for those with enough space for a makeshift court.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

Number of Players: 2

Rules: Chess Official Rules

Giant Chess adds a strategic twist to outdoor play. The MegaChess set offers a practical size for backyard use, with pieces reaching 12 inches and a 4x4 ft mat. It's an excellent way to enjoy chess in the fresh air.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on several factors, including yard space, player count, and group preferences. For small yards, consider games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, or Yard Pong, which require minimal setup. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are top choices, depending on wind conditions. Larger yards offer more flexibility, allowing for games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet across expansive areas.

If you're looking for equipment-free fun, classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, or tag are excellent options that require only space and imagination.

By considering these factors, you can find the perfect yard game to enhance your outdoor gatherings in 2025.