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 warm weather of 2025 approaching, you'll find a variety of yard games, from timeless classics to exciting new options. Here's a curated list of my top picks for 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 delve into the details of each game to help you make an informed decision.

Cornhole

GoSports Classic Cornhole Set

See it at Amazon

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 versatile, allowing for 2 or 4 players. 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 choice.

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 combines the fun of yard pong with golf. Players take turns putting balls into cups on the opponent's side, aiming to fill all six cups first. It's a relaxed game that's ideal for social gatherings.

Spikeball

Spikeball Standard Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 4

Rules: Official Spikeball Rules

Spikeball blends volleyball and foursquare into an energetic game. Two teams of two players hit a ball into a net, trying to keep it from touching the ground. The official set includes everything you need, though cheaper knock-offs are available. For a premium experience, consider the Spikeball Pro Kit.

Giant Jenga

Giant Jenga

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Number of Players: 2-6

Rules: Official Jenga Rules

For a game that tests dexterity without requiring athletic prowess, Giant Jenga is a winner. Available in various sizes, the standard set reaches over 4 feet tall. It's fun but requires caution around small children and pets due to the potential for the tower to collapse.

Kan Jam

Kan Jam

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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 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

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Ladder Golf Official Rules

Ladder Toss, also known as Ladder Golf, is simple yet engaging. Players aim to wrap balls on a string around different rungs of a ladder, each worth varying points. 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 hit balls through hoops with mallets, and the course is customizable. It's perfect for leisurely gatherings and doesn't need much space.

Bocce

Amazon Basics Bocce Ball Set

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Number of Players: 2-8

Rules: Bocce Official Rules

Bocce, dating back to 5200 B.C., is simple yet engaging. Players aim to get their larger balls close to a smaller ball. It's portable and requires no setup, making it ideal for quick games.

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 an Olympic sport that requires hand-eye coordination. While setting up the net is necessary, it can also serve as a volleyball net. Both games are available virtually on Nintendo Switch Sports.

Yard Pong

Yard Pong

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: House Rules

Yard Pong is essentially beer pong with buckets. The rules can be customized, but remember, no beer in the buckets! It's perfect for small spaces and casual play.

Horseshoes

Champion Sports Horseshoe Set

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Horseshoes Official Rules

Horseshoes can be played in a pit or simply with stakes in the yard. Players aim to ring 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

See it at Amazon

Number of Players: 2-4

Rules: Pickleball Official Rules

Pickleball, a blend of tennis and ping pong, is surging in popularity. This portable set includes a net and balls, but paddles must be purchased separately. It's perfect for any hard surface with enough space.

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 adds a fun twist to outdoor play. The MegaChess set is practical with 12-inch pieces and a 4x4 ft mat. It's easy to store and follows standard chess rules.

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 work well, 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 great options. Ultimately, the best yard game is one that you and your friends and family will enjoy playing together.