The 34 Best Backyard and Camping Games for All Ages, Including Kick the Can, Sardines, Capture the Flag, Ring Toss, Horseshoes, Kerplunk, Frisbee, Cornhole, Kubb, Spikeball, and More
From the laughter-filled moments of family barbecues to the camaraderie of camping trips, outdoor games have always brought generations together. Whether you’re in your backyard or exploring the great outdoors, these 34 games will ensure that everyone, regardless of age, will have a blast.
1. Kick the Can – A Twist on Hide and Seek
This classic game blends hide and seek with tag, where one person is “it” and tries to find others hiding. Once found, players are put in “jail” until someone kicks the can to set everyone free. The trick is to be stealthy enough not to get caught! Learn more about the rules.
2. Sardines – Hide and Seek In Reverse
In Sardines, one person hides, and others seek. When you find the hider, you squeeze into the hiding spot like sardines in a tin. The last person to find the group is the next one to hide.
3. Capture the Flag – A Team Spirit Game
This game divides players into two teams, each with a flag or item to guard. The aim is to capture the opponent’s flag and return it to your base without being tagged. Here’s how you can set it up.
4. Ring Toss – Aim for Accuracy
Perfect for all ages, ring toss involves throwing rings from a distance onto pegs. Score points by landing your ring on the highest-scoring pegs.
5. Horseshoes – Pitching Precision
Horseshoes is a lawn game played by throwing horseshoes at a stake in the ground, with the goal of ringing the stake or landing close to it to score.
6. Kerplunk – A Game of Strategy and Steady Hands
Kerplunk requires players to carefully remove sticks from a tube without letting the marbles fall. The person with the least marbles at the end wins.
7. Frisbee – The Ultimate Flying Disc
Simple, yet fun, throwing a Frisbee can become competitive with distance and accuracy contests, or relaxing as a casual pastime.
8. Cornhole – The Beloved Bean Bag Toss
Cornhole, or bean bag toss, is about getting your bean bag in the hole or on the board to score points. You can find quality cornhole sets suitable for tournaments or family fun at Amazon.
9. Kubb – The Viking Chess
Originating from Sweden, Kubb is a lawn game where the object is to knock over wooden blocks by throwing wooden batons at them.
10. Spikeball – A Dynamic and Athletic Game
Spikeball is a net game with rules similar to volleyball, but with a hula hoop-sized net placed at ankle level. It’s fast-paced and requires quick reflexes. Get your set here.
…And Many More!
The list of games is extensive, and the fun doesn’t stop here. Here are additional games to consider:
- Flashlight Tag
- Ladder Ball
- Duck Duck Goose
- Red Rover
- Simon Says
- Bocce
- Badminton
- Giant Jenga
- Tug of War
- Croquet
- Soccer
- Kickball
- Four Square
- Hopscotch
- Potato Sack Race
- Ultimate Frisbee
- Dodgeball
- Water Balloon Toss
- Capture the Baseball
- Relay Races
- Lawn Bowling
- Giant Connect Four
- Water Gun Fights
- Tag
One thing’s for sure; whether you choose teamwork-based games like Capture the Flag or individual challenges like Ring Toss, there’s an outdoor game for every group and occasion.
When organizing these games, remember to consider the age range of your group and space available. Some games require more physical activity than others and some need more equipment, so plan accordingly. Engaging in these activities not only strengthens the bonds among participants but also promotes physical health and sharpens skills like teamwork, strategy, and agility.
For more detailed guides and the best equipment to purchase for each game, refer to credible sources such as The American Camping Association and outdoor gear reviews from experts. Safety should always come first, so inspect the area for hazards and make sure all equipment is in good condition before play begins.
By selecting the appropriate games for your next outdoor activity and properly setting up, you ensure a joy-filled and memorable experience for all involved. The laughter, friendly competition, and physical activity contribute to a great day outdoors. So gather your loved ones, head to the backyard or the nearest campsite, and let the games begin!