When the sun is out and the yard beckons, there's nothing quite like a fun lawn game to bring people together outdoors. With the warmer weather of 2025 on the horizon, you'll find a variety of yard games, from timeless classics to exciting new options. Here's a curated list of some of the best yard games to enjoy this spring.
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 factors like available space and the number of players. Below, I'll dive into the details of each game to help you make the best choice for your outdoor fun.
Cornhole
GoSports Classic Cornhole Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Official Cornhole Rules
Cornhole is a beloved classic that's easy to set up and play. All you need are two boards with holes and sets of bags. It's perfect for 2 to 4 players, and while wooden sets are pricier, they offer better playability with less bounce and smoother bag slides. For those on the go, collapsible sets are a great option.
PutterBall
PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: PutterBall Rules
Ideal for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall brings the fun of golf pong outdoors. Players take turns putting balls into cups on the opponent's side, making it a relaxed and enjoyable game for any gathering.
Spikeball
Spikeball Standard Set
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official Spikeball Rules
A newer addition to yard games, Spikeball combines elements of volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two hit a ball into a net, keeping it in play to avoid letting it touch the ground. The official 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
For a game that tests dexterity without requiring much athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a fantastic choice. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall, making it a thrilling addition to any backyard.
Kan Jam
Kan Jam
Number of Players: 4
Rules: Official KanJam Rules
Kan Jam is perfect for those who enjoy throwing frisbees. Set up 50 feet apart, players aim to score points by hitting or getting the frisbee into the cans. It's ideal for larger spaces like big backyards or beaches.
Ladder Toss
GoSports Premium Ladder Toss
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules
Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Golf, is a simple yet engaging game. Players aim to wrap balls on a string around different rungs of a ladder, each worth varying points. It's a relaxing game that doesn't require much space.
Croquet
GoSports Croquet Set
Number of Players: 2-6
Rules: Croquet Official Rules
With roots tracing back to 14th century France, Croquet remains a delightful choice. Players hit balls through hoops with mallets, and the customizable course adds to the fun. It's perfect for a leisurely backyard gathering.
Bocce
Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set
Number of Players: 2-8
Rules: Bocce Official Rules
One of the oldest games on the list, Bocce dates back to 5200 B.C. Players aim to get their larger balls as close as possible to a smaller ball, making it a simple yet strategic game. Its portability and ease of setup make it a great choice for quick outdoor fun.
Badminton
Franklin Sports Badminton Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Badminton Official Rules
Badminton, akin to tennis and pickleball, uses a shuttlecock and requires hand-eye coordination. While setting up the net takes some effort, it doubles as a volleyball net, offering versatility. It's also available virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.
Yard Pong
Yard Pong
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: House Rules
For fans of beer pong, Yard Pong brings the game outdoors with buckets. The rules can be customized, but remember to keep it family-friendly by avoiding actual beer in the buckets.
Horseshoes
Champion Sports Horseshoe Set
Number of Players: 2-4
Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules
Horseshoes can be played in a pit or simply with stakes in the ground. Players aim to ring the horseshoes around the stake or get close to score points. 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 blend of tennis and ping pong, is gaining popularity. This portable set includes a net and balls, though paddles must be purchased separately. It's perfect for any hard surface with enough space.
Giant Chess Set
MegaChess Large Chess Set
Number of Players: 2
Rules: Chess Official Rules
For chess enthusiasts, a giant chess set adds a fun twist to the classic game. The MegaChess set is practical and easy to store, with pieces up to 12 inches tall and a 4x4 ft mat.
How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You
Selecting the perfect lawn game depends on factors like yard space, number of players, and personal preferences. For small yards, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal. At the beach, Spikeball, badminton, and Kan Jam are great choices, depending on wind conditions. For larger yards, consider badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, or Croquet.
If you're looking for games without equipment, classics like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are perfect for any outdoor space.
