When the sun's out and the yard beckons, there's no better way to enjoy the outdoors than with a fun lawn game that brings everyone together. From timeless classics to fresh new experiences, the variety of yard games available in 2025 is impressive. Whether you're gearing up for a casual gathering or a competitive showdown, here are some of the best yard games to elevate your outdoor fun as the weather warms up.
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 involves considering various factors such as the space available and the number of players. Below, I've detailed some of my top picks for the best outdoor yard games of 2025, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Cornhole
GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole is a classic yard game that's ubiquitous for good reason. It's simple yet engaging: just two boards with holes and sets of bags. You can play with 2 or 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. While plastic sets exist, wooden ones are preferred for their better playability, despite the higher cost. For those on the move, collapsible sets are a great choice.
PutterBall
PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
Ideal for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall brings the fun of golf to your yard. It's essentially yard pong with putters, where players take turns filling cups on the opponent's side. Its slow pace and easy setup make it perfect for relaxed gatherings.
Spikeball
Spikeball Standard Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A newer addition to yard games, Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare. Two teams of two players hit a ball into a net, keeping it airborne 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 knock-offs are available at a lower price.
Giant Jenga
Giant Jenga
See 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 top pick. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet. It's a fun, family-friendly option, though be cautious around small children and pets when the tower falls.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
If you enjoy throwing frisbees and aiming at targets, Kan Jam is for you. It's like cornhole but with frisbees and more dynamic play. Ideal for larger spaces, it's perfect for backyards or beach outings.
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 easy to learn and play. The goal is to wrap balls on a string around rungs of a ladder, with each rung offering different point values. It's relaxing and doesn't require much space, making it suitable for smaller yards.
Croquet
GoSports Croquet Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
With roots tracing back to 14th century France, Croquet remains a delightful choice. Players use mallets to hit balls through customizable hoops. It's leisurely and perfect for up to six players, fitting well in most yards.
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 listed, dates back to 5200 B.C. It's simple yet strategic, involving rolling larger balls near a smaller target ball. It's highly portable and requires no setup, making it an easy choice for spontaneous fun.
Badminton
Franklin Sports Badminton Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Similar to tennis but with a shuttlecock, Badminton is an Olympic sport that's surprisingly simple yet challenging. It requires setting up a net but can double as a volleyball net, adding versatility. You can also play virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong
Yard Pong
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
Inspired by beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized, making it a fun and adaptable game. Remember, no beer in the buckets!
Horseshoes
Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
See it at Amazon
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes can be played with just stakes and horseshoes, though a pit enhances the experience. The objective is to ring the stake or get close to it for points. Metal sets are recommended, with safer plastic options available for kids.
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. A portable net set allows you to play at home on any hard surface. Paddles are sold separately, but the set includes balls and a carrying case.
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 brings the classic game outdoors. The MegaChess set offers a practical size with pieces up to 12 inches tall and a 4x4 ft mat. It's perfect for strategic thinkers looking to enjoy the game in a larger format.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on several factors including yard space, number of players, and personal preferences. Small yards favor games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong, which require minimal setup and space. For beach outings, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are excellent choices, though wind conditions should be considered. Larger yards offer more flexibility, allowing for games like badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet spread out over a bigger area.
For those looking to save on equipment, consider games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag, which require no special gear and can be just as fun.
In summary, the key to a great yard game experience is finding something that everyone will enjoy, tailored to your specific outdoor space and group size. With these top picks for 2025, you're ready to make the most of sunny days and lively gatherings.
