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There’s something magnetic about stepping outside with a game in hand — it turns a plain afternoon into a mini-event. Outdoor games boost physical activity, spark friendly rivalry, and create memories that stick longer than any gadget. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a beach day, or organizing a park meet-up, the right game brings people together faster than planning a playlist. Plus, most games are compact, durable, and built to withstand sun, sand, and a little roughhousing. Think of a good outdoor game as an investment in more laughter, more movement, and more weekends worth retelling.
Not every game is made equal — a few simple rules help you pick winners. Look for portability (can you carry it in one bag?), durability (materials that survive sun, dirt, and accidental drops), and clear rules that anyone can learn in under five minutes. Games that scale for small or large groups, and that allow varying degrees of competitiveness, are especially valuable. Also, consider setup time: if it takes longer to unfold the gear than you have to play, the game's appeal dips fast. Ideally, you want something you can tote in the trunk and set up in under 10 minutes.
Cornhole is the unofficial king of backyard games in the US, and for good reason. Two wooden or composite boards, each about 48 inches long and 24 inches wide, face one another with a 27-foot pitch between front edges for regulation play — but feel free to shorten that for casual backyard fun. Tossing bean bags is addictive but low-impact, so kids and adults play together easily. Look for boards with weather-resistant coatings and bean bags stitched for heavy use. Cornhole kits range from inexpensive foldable boards to handcrafted tournament-grade sets, so there’s an option for every budget.
Walmart and Target carry budget-friendly cornhole sets ideal for casual weekends, often priced under $100. If you want upgraded materials or a custom design, Dick’s Sporting Goods and specialty retailers like Etsy sellers or independent woodworkers offer handcrafted boards and official tournament gear. For premium, weatherproof composite boards, check outdoor specialty stores and larger chains that stock professional sets.
Spikeball has exploded from college quad to family parks because it’s portable, energetic, and instantly competitive. A Spikeball kit usually packs into a small bag and sets up in under two minutes. It’s perfect for sand or grass and promotes sprinting, diving, and quick reflexes. If you like fast-paced, high-energy play that’s easy to learn but hard to master, Spikeball is a must-have. Expect to scramble, laugh, and break a sweat — in the best way.
Major retailers like Amazon and Dick’s Sporting Goods stock official Spikeball kits and branded alternatives. Target often carries more affordable variants, while specialty sports stores sometimes carry higher-tension nets and replacement parts. If you shop online, you’ll find the widest selection of replacement parts and upgraded nets.
Bocce ball and horseshoes are classic, low-impact options that work in yards and parks alike. Bocce courts can be as small as 30 feet long for casual play, while horseshoes needs simple stakes spaced about 40 feet apart for official play but can be shortened for kids. Both games are wonderful for mixed-age gatherings because they emphasize strategy and steady hands over sprinting and jumping. Good sets are made of durable materials like resin or rubber-coated metal to prevent chipping and accidental damage to lawns.
Home improvement stores like Home Depot and big-box outlets such as Walmart frequently carry bocce and horseshoe sets in the spring and summer. For more elegant, wooden bocce sets or tournament-quality horseshoes, check sporting goods stores like Academy Sports + Outdoors or specialty online retailers. If you want a synthetic or lawn-friendly horseshoe set, look for rubberized options at outdoor-focused retailers.
Giant Jenga is simple to explain but dramatic to play: wooden blocks, each roughly 3.5 inches wide by 1.5 inches thick and stacked tall, create tense moments as the tower leans. The big appeal is the suspense — everyone holds their breath waiting for the tumble. This game requires minimal setup and is great on decks, patios, or grassy patches. Make sure the blocks are made of smooth, solid wood or weather-treated materials if you plan to leave them outside between parties.
Toy and hobby stores, Target, and Amazon offer various sized Jenga sets, from classic to giant editions. For handcrafted or outdoor-treated blocks, look at Etsy sellers or outdoor specialty stores that can provide cedar or treated pine options to resist rot and splintering.
KanJam and Ladder Toss bring target-based excitement with minimal gear. KanJam uses a 17-inch-diameter flying disc and two towers about 2 feet tall and 26 inches wide, and play is fast and social. Ladder Toss (also called ladder golf) involves throwing bolas to wrap around rungs; sets typically measure about 3 feet tall for each ladder. Both games pack flat and are easy to store, and they’re excellent for tailgates and beach trips because they’re lightweight.
These games are staples at big-box retailers like Walmart and Target. For branded or promotion-style KanJam and premium ladder toss sets, check Dick’s Sporting Goods or online marketplaces for higher-grade plastics and weatherproof finishes. If you want a customized look, local woodworkers can also craft sturdy ladder toss racks using cedar or pressure-treated lumber.
Disc golf blends frisbee fun with course strategy: players throw discs toward metal baskets across varied terrain. A starter disc set is compact and typically includes three discs — driver, mid-range, and putter — and a portable practice basket can be less than 5 feet tall for backyard practice. Disc golf scales from casual backyard chucks to competitive courses that span hundreds of feet. It’s a game that gets you walking, thinking, and improving with every round.
Specialty stores and disc manufacturers sell individual discs and entry-level sets; look to places like Academy Sports + Outdoors, Disc Golf Stores online, and sporting goods outlets for a wide range of discs. For permanent baskets and pro-grade gear, specialty retailers and online stores will have sturdy, weather-resistant options designed to handle thousands of throws.
Choosing where to buy comes down to three questions: Do you want budget gear or premium quality? Do you prefer shopping in-store to test weight and feel, or is shipping to your door more convenient? And how important is warranty or replacement parts? Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target are great for affordable, entry-level sets and immediate pickup. Sporting goods stores like Dick’s and Academy offer a mix of mid-range and premium options, plus staff who can advise on size and materials. For specialty or handcrafted items, makers on Etsy, or specialty outdoor retailers, provide unique or tournament-grade versions.
Cheap sets usually have thinner plastics, lighter boards, or lower-grade wood, which is fine for casual play. Expect wear faster if you leave them in direct sun or rain. Premium sets use treated wood, composite materials, or reinforced metals and come with longer warranties and replacement parts. If your set sees weekly use — think regular family nights or frequent tailgates — spending a bit more upfront pays off. If you only play a few times a year, a budget set will still bring loads of joy.
A few smart accessories extend play and protect your gear. Think weather covers for cornhole boards, spare nets for Spikeball, sandbags for stabilizing target posts in wind, and carry cases for discs and bocce balls. For wood-based games, a small can of exterior-grade varnish or sealant keeps moisture out and prevents warping. Consider extras like scoreboards, LED lights for evening play, and replacement bean bags or discs so you can keep playing without delay.
Always set games on a flat surface and clear the area of rocks or sharp objects to prevent tripping. If a game involves heavy components or hardware, secure them properly — stakes should be driven flush, boards kept stable, and ladders set on level ground. For storage, keep wood pieces elevated and covered; moisture is the enemy. Lightweight plastic or composite gear should be stored out of direct sunlight when possible to avoid discoloration and brittleness. Finally, teach kids safe retrieval habits: no running into active play zones and watch for flying discs.
Think beyond the backyard: games can anchor community events, birthday parties, and even corporate icebreakers. Set up tournament brackets for a multi-hour event, or turn a row of games into a “fun run” circuit where teams rotate every 15 minutes. For evening events, add string or clip-on LED lights to boards and baskets to keep the party going after dusk. Games also make recession-proof entertainment — inexpensive to run and endlessly social, they offer a tangible return on entertainment investment.
If you want a single recommendation to cover most occasions: buy a cornhole set and a Spikeball kit. Together they cover low-energy, social play and high-energy competitive fun. Add a bocce or ladder toss set for variety, and you’ve got a full backyard arsenal that accommodates kids, teens, and adults. Choose retailers based on how often you plan to use the gear: big-box for casual use, specialty stores for long-term durability, and custom makers for a unique centerpiece that becomes a talking point at every gathering.
Outdoor games transform ordinary gatherings into memorable experiences and encourage movement, connection, and simple joy. From classic cornhole and bocce ball to fast-paced Spikeball and KanJam, there’s a game to fit every group, space, and budget. When shopping, consider durability, portability, and whether you want budget-friendly convenience or a premium, long-lasting set. Retailers across the US — from Walmart and Target to Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports + Outdoors, and specialty online sellers — offer a broad range of options, so you can find gear that fits your style and schedule. Grab a set, rally your people, and let the backyard become your playground.
| Outdoor Games - Other | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Bulk - Set Of 12 Light Up 5 Puffer Balls | $ 19,99 |
