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Backyard recreation can be as simple as a flying-disc catch or as involved as setting up a badminton net. These 14 ideas cover active games, quieter activities and options for different yard sizes. Choose based on the space you can safely clear, who will play and how much equipment you want to store.
How to choose an activity for your backyard
Before setting up, consider the usable space rather than the yard’s total area. Leave room to move, swing or throw, and keep play away from windows, walkways and other fragile or busy areas. A patio or small lawn can work well for turn-taking games and gardening; net games and running games need more clear space.
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- Setup and storage: Chalk, a rope or a flying disc is easy to put away. A net or a larger game set needs more setup and storage space.
- Activity level: Mix movement games with quieter choices so everyone can join in or take a break.
- Equipment: Many ideas need little or no special gear. Buying a set is optional, and not every yard can accommodate larger equipment.
14 backyard recreation ideas
1. Cornhole
Set up boards with a clear throwing lane and take turns tossing bags. It is an uncomplicated group lawn game, but leave enough room behind and beside the boards for players to move safely. AARP includes cornhole among its family-friendly outdoor game ideas.
2. Kubb
This lawn-target game gives a group a reason to take turns aiming and retrieving pieces. You will need a Kubb set and an open area where throws and moving pieces will not reach windows or passersby. AARP also lists Kubb as an outdoor game.
#1 Best Overall
- RUSTIC DESIGN: Join the classic fun of cornhole with this unique set featuring printed steel framed barnwood graphics; Boards are made to look like real barnwood planks for a stylish farmhouse inspired design
- COMPLETE CORNHOLE SET: Includes 2 premium regulation size 4 x 2 ft boards, 8 all-weather regulation size (6 x 6 inch) and weight (1 lb each) bean bags (4 red, 4 blue), carrying case, and game rules
- GREAT VALUE: Regulation size cornhole set that won't break the bank; Made from MDF composite wood that is perfect for casual bean bag toss games with friends & family for endless entertainment
- PORTABLE CARRY CASE: Each board weighs only 16 lbs, durable yet lightweight compared to heavy wood boards that weigh twice as much; Both boards easily fold flat into the included carrying case for portability or neat storage
3. Badminton
A net, racquets and shuttlecocks turn a clear patch of yard into a casual court. Allow room to swing and move on both sides of the net; if the space is tight, a net game may not be a practical fit. Badminton appears in AARP’s backyard game guide.
4. Flying-disc catch
For a low-setup activity, take turns throwing and catching a flying disc. Pick an open area away from windows, parked vehicles and people passing by. Consumer Reports includes flying discs in its outdoor-games coverage.
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A lightweight bat and ball can make a casual backyard batting game. Choose a play area clear of fragile items, and agree on boundaries before anyone swings. Consumer Reports describes the appeal of a Wiffle bat-and-ball set for family play in its outdoor-games guide.
Rank #2
- RUSTIC DESIGN: Join the classic fun of cornhole with this unique set featuring printed steel framed barnwood graphics; Boards are made to look like real barnwood planks for a stylish farmhouse inspired design
- COMPLETE CORNHOLE SET: Includes 2 premium tailgate size 3 x 2 ft boards, 8 all-weather regulation size (6 x 6 inch) and weight (1 lb each) bean bags (4 red, 4 blue), carrying case, and game rules
- GREAT VALUE: Tailgate size cornhole set that won't break the bank; Made from MDF composite wood that is perfect for casual bean bag toss games with friends & family for endless entertainment
- PORTABLE CARRY CASE: Each board weighs only 12 lbs, durable yet lightweight compared to heavy wood boards that weigh twice as much; Both boards easily fold flat into the included carrying case for portability or neat storage
- SOCIAL EVENT FAVORITE: Enjoy outdoor games on the lawn, in the backyard, at the beach, tailgates, camping, cookouts, weddings, holiday weekends and more
6. Lawn bowling
Use a bowling set on a relatively level patch of lawn or patio. Take turns rolling toward a target, adjusting the distance to suit the players and the space. This is a straightforward activity idea, not a recommendation for a particular set.
7. Giant dominoes
Spread oversized dominoes on a patio or level lawn and play a familiar matching game at a larger scale. It is a quieter, turn-taking option that can be easier to pause and resume than a running game.
8. Hopscotch
Draw a hopscotch grid with washable chalk on suitable paving, then take turns hopping through it. Keep the layout away from driveways and other places where people or vehicles may pass. Hopscotch is one of the outdoor game categories in the City of Toronto’s activity resource.
Rank #3
- 100% SOLID WOOD: Premium craftsmanship boards, varnished surface (easily painted or customized) made using pine wood frames and featuring mitered corner joints; Boards are also ready to use without additional work required
- REGULATION SIZE: Includes 2 regulation size (4 ft x 2 ft) cornhole boards for authentic gameplay, 8 all-weather regulation bean bags, carrying case and rules
- EVENT DAY FAVORITE: Hours of fun with friends and family at tournaments, tailgates, holiday weekends, cookouts, campsites, and more
- PERSONALIZE YOUR SET: Customize the boards with your own decals and designs (not included) to make for the perfect cornhole set
- ALL-WEATHER BEAN BAGS: Includes 8 premium regulation size bean bags (4 red + 4 blue, no logos)
9. Jump rope
Jump rope can be a solo rhythm challenge or a group activity. Make sure the area around the rope is clear, and try a slower pace or simple turn-taking for mixed ages. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends jump ropes over home trampolines in its yard-safety guidance; the City of Toronto also includes rope games in its outdoor activity categories.
10. Tag
Agree on a clear boundary and a pace that suits the players before starting. Keep the route clear of garden tools, furniture and other obstacles, and adapt the rules so players with different mobility can participate. Tag is among the game categories in the City of Toronto’s resource for children ages 6–12.
11. Scavenger hunt
Make a short list of things to spot, such as a particular color, shape or type of leaf. Participants can point out what they find rather than collecting it. Keep the hunt within a defined area and do not ask children to touch unfamiliar plants or insects.
Rank #4
- Portable Cornhole Set:This cornhole board set is foldable, and features side handles for easy transportation to gatherings and outdoor games.Avoid exposing it to outdoor environments for extended periods, especially during rainy days.
- Sturdy Construction：ROPODA cornhole game set is made of density board, with an aluminum alloy frame and legs, providing a sturdy structure.When bean bags hit the cornhole set surface, the board will not wobble or bounce
- CORNHOLE SET: Includes 2 premium regulation size 2 x 1 ft boards, 8 all-weather regulation size (4.3 x 4.3 inch) and weight (0.3 lb each) bean bags (4 red, 4 blue)and mini cornhole set game rules
- Ultimate Party Game:Corn hole game can be played anywhere –parks, backyard,beaches, social events and more.This cornhole board is outdoor games for adults and family.
- ROPODA HELP: Customer satisfaction is our first priority. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us and we are willing to help you
12. Backyard obstacle course
Arrange low, stable household items along a route, such as a line to walk around or a target to step toward. Clear the path first; avoid improvised heights, ropes around play structures and anything that could tip. If the activity uses installed play equipment, follow its manufacturer’s assembly and maintenance instructions.
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13. Container gardening together
Planting a container garden is a slower, hands-on way to spend time outside. Children can help with age-appropriate tools and gloves. The American Academy of Pediatrics specifically suggests planting a container garden with older children in its yard-safety tips.
14. Make your own group game
Start with a familiar activity—ball play, hopscotch, a rope game or tag—and adapt the rules to the number of players, available space and desired pace. The City of Toronto’s collection groups outdoor games into ball, group, hopscotch, rope and tag categories, offering a useful starting point for variations.
Best Value
- Folding frame design allows quick setup and compact storage. The boards collapse flat for convenient transport and space-saving storage during outdoor activities
- Lightweight construction with included carrying case allows convenient transportation for camping trips, beach outings, tailgating events, picnics, and backyard gatherings
- Made with polyester fabric and reinforced flexible frame construction designed for repeated outdoor recreational use. Surface material helps reduce excessive bag sliding during play
- Includes two foldable 3 x 2 ft toss boards, eight toss bags, and one storage carrying case. Designed for convenient setup and transport
- Suitable for outdoor recreational activities, social gatherings, camping, barbecues, parks, beaches, tailgating events, and backyard entertainment
Keep backyard play safer
For young children, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends close adult supervision outdoors, regular breaks for hydration and sun protection, and care with play equipment. It warns that “grass may seem soft, it can’t absorb the shock of a child’s fall.” If you install a play structure, use appropriate protective surfacing and securely anchor large equipment as directed. The AAP recommends jump ropes over trampolines and discusses the potential for trampoline injuries in its backyard safety guidance.
Families considering installed playground equipment can consult the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s Outdoor Home Playground Safety materials, including its handbook and home playground checklist. Inspect equipment before use and follow the product’s specific instructions.
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