With the sun shining and the yard calling, there's no better way to enjoy the outdoors than with engaging lawn games that bring people together. As the weather warms up in 2025, the variety of yard games available, from timeless classics to innovative newcomers, ensures there's something for everyone. Whether you're planning a family gathering or a friendly competition, 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 depends on several factors, including your yard space and the number of players. Below, you'll find detailed information on each game to help you make the best choice for your outdoor fun.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Official Cornhole Rules

Cornhole is a beloved classic that you'll find at gatherings everywhere. The game is straightforward: players toss bean bags into a hole on a slanted board. It can be played with 2 or 4 players, making it versatile for different group sizes. Wooden sets are preferred for their durability and better gameplay, though collapsible sets are ideal for travel.

PutterBall

PutterBall Golf Pong Game Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: PutterBall Rules

Perfect for smaller spaces like decks or patios, PutterBall brings indoor golf to the outdoors. Players use putters to navigate balls into cups on the opponent's side, making it a fun and relaxed game that's easy to set up anywhere.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

A newer addition to yard games, Spikeball combines elements of volleyball and foursquare. Teams of two compete to hit a ball into a small, circular net, keeping it in play to avoid losing points. The official set is recommended for the best experience, though more affordable knock-offs are available.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

For those who enjoy games of skill and precision, Giant Jenga scales up the classic game for outdoor fun. Available in various sizes, it's a hit at gatherings, though players should ensure safety with its inevitable topple.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official KanJam Rules

Kan Jam is perfect for frisbee enthusiasts, requiring players to aim at cans to score points. It's ideal for larger spaces, making it a great choice for expansive 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, is easy to set up and play. Players aim to wrap bolas around the rungs of a ladder, with different rungs offering varying points. It's a great, low-space game for all ages.

Croquet

GoSports Croquet Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Croquet Official Rules

A game with historical roots, Croquet offers a leisurely and customizable experience. Players use mallets to guide balls through a series of hoops, making it a relaxing choice for gatherings.

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, is simple yet engaging. Players aim to get their larger balls as close as possible to a smaller target ball, making it an excellent choice for quick and easy setup.

Badminton

Franklin Sports Badminton Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Badminton Official Rules

Badminton, akin to tennis but with a shuttlecock, is both simple and challenging. It requires setting up a net but offers versatility, doubling as a volleyball net. It's also available virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

A larger-scale version of beer pong, Yard Pong uses buckets instead of cups. The rules can be customized, making it a fun and flexible game for outdoor gatherings.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes is a classic game that can be played in a pit or simply with stakes in the ground. Players aim to ring the stake with horseshoes, with metal sets recommended for durability.

Pickleball Set

Bearwill Portable Pickleball Net

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, combines elements of tennis and ping pong. This portable set allows for easy setup on a hard surface, though paddles are sold separately.

Giant Chess Set

MegaChess Large Chess Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2

Rules: Chess Official Rules

For those who enjoy strategic games, a Giant Chess Set brings the classic indoors game outdoors. The MegaChess set is a practical choice, with pieces and a mat sized for easy storage and setup.

How to Choose the Right Yard Game for You

Selecting the perfect lawn game involves considering your yard size, the number of players, and the type of entertainment you seek. For small yards, games like Giant Jenga, PutterBall, and Yard Pong are ideal, requiring minimal space. For beach outings, Spikeball and Badminton are excellent choices, while larger yards can accommodate games like Badminton, Kan Jam, Bocce, and Croquet.

For those looking to enjoy outdoor fun without equipment, classic games like capture the flag, hide and seek, sardines, or tag are always a hit. Ultimately, the best yard game is one that you and your friends and family will enjoy playing together.