50+ Best Yard Games for Camping, Airbnbs & Family Reunions
Listen, we could give you another generic list of cornhole and ladder ball and call it a day. But that’s not what we’re about here at Road Trip Owl. When we pack for a camping trip, when we book an Airbnb, when we plan a family reunion – we’re going ALL IN on the fun. And that means we need to talk about ALL the yard games. The giant ones. The ridiculous ones. The kids games that keep little ones entertained for hours. The adult games that bring out everyone’s competitive side. The family games where grandpa and the 6-year-old can both play. The ones that make you the hero of the family gathering. The ones that turn a basic backyard into the spot everyone wants to hang out at.
This is the comprehensive yard game guide we wish existed when we were planning our trips. Whether you’re searching for outdoor games for kids at the campsite, adult party games for your crew, family-friendly options for mixed ages, or looking for ways to make your Airbnb the most-booked property in your area – we’ve got you covered.
Jump to:
- Giant Statement Games – The games that years later people say “remember when we played giant Jenga at the lake house and it fell on Sarah?”
- Active & Sporty Games – Get ready to dive, spike, and talk trash
- Pack-Friendly: Camping, RVing & Road Trips – The real reason you’re outside (it’s not the air mattress)
- Games for Everyone – The games that create those “remember when grandpa beat us all at cornhole” stories
- Tossing & Target Games – Where 8-year-old Emma beats Uncle Mike and never lets him forget it
- Party Games – Maximum chaos, maximum fun
- DIY Section – DIY Yard Games – For the do-it-yourselfer who knows the best games are the ones you built with your crew (bonus: everyone picks different games = instant collection)
- For Airbnb & Vacation Rental Hosts – Games That Drive Bookings (Okay hosts, we need to talk)
Let’s do this.
Giant Statement Games (some are travel friendly)
These are the showstoppers. The scroll-stoppers. The “OMG they have giant Jenga!” games that get shared in friend group chats and tagged in Instagram stories (hello, free marketing). Giant yard games work for everyone – kids love the wow factor, adults love the competition. Yeah, they take up space. Yeah, they’re an investment. But they’re also the games that turn into stories people tell for years.
Giant Connect 4
You know the game. Now imagine it at 4 feet tall. It’s the perfect icebreaker when energy’s low or people are just arriving – easy to join, impossible to ignore. And yeah, it’s “just Connect 4” until 8-year-old Sara wins three games in a row and suddenly the adults NEED to reclaim their dignity. Works as a wind-down game by the fire or a tournament that lasts all weekend. Incredibly photogenic, surprisingly competitive, and pro tip: grab a carrying bag separately so you can actually transport this thing without losing pieces.
Best for: Family reunions, Airbnb properties, camping, anywhere you want an instant crowd-pleaser
Giant Jenga
This is THE giant yard game that started it all for most people. Watching a tower taller than most adults teetering and swaying creates this incredible group energy. Everyone gathers around. Everyone holds their breath. And when it falls? Pure chaos (and laughter). You can find sets up to 5+ feet tall when fully stacked.
Pro tip: Play on grass, not concrete. Your feet (and the blocks) will thank you.
Best for: Vacation rentals, family reunions, keeping everyone engaged without the chaos, easy to pack
Human Wack-A-Mole
Picture the arcade game, but humans are the moles. People pop up through holes in an inflatable structure while someone else tries to “bonk” them with a soft mallet before they duck back down. It’s exactly as chaotic and hilarious as it sounds. This is event-level entertainment – the kind of thing that draws a crowd just watching. Kids go absolutely wild for it, adults get surprisingly competitive about their bonking accuracy, and everyone wants multiple turns.
For big events, family reunions, or vacation rental properties that host groups, this is gold. It’s active, it’s rotating (people cycle through quickly), and it creates that carnival atmosphere that makes gatherings feel special. Fair warning: you need decent space for the inflatable structure and this will become the main attraction once it’s set up.
Best for: Large group gatherings, family reunion entertainment, vacation properties that host events, creating carnival energy
Giant Yard Pong
Giant yard pong (sometimes called BasketPong or bucket ball) turns basketball meets beer pong into something the whole family can play. We’re talking 4-year-olds to grandparents all getting surprisingly competitive about sinking shots into oversized buckets. Set up 12 buckets, grab the basketballs, and watch everyone discover their inner trash-talker. Works great for teams, tournaments, or just casual shooting while you’re waiting for the grill to heat up.
Pro tip: Fill the buckets partway with water so they don’t tip over and stay stable during play.
Best for: Backyard parties, beach houses, all ages (seriously, 4 to 74), competitive family energy
Giant Yahtzee
Five huge dice in a bucket is somehow infinitely more fun than regular Yahtzee. Maybe it’s the satisfying clunk when you roll them across the yard. Maybe it’s that everyone can actually see what you rolled from their lawn chair. Whatever it is, it works. The best part? This isn’t just Yahtzee – you get 20+ different dice games included (Farkle, Pig, Ship-Captain-Crew, and a bunch more you’ve probably never heard of). The dice are weather-resistant New Zealand Pine, the score cards are reusable dry-erase, and the whole thing stores in a collapsible bucket that takes up almost no space. Perfect for camping, RVing, or anywhere you need entertainment that doesn’t require electricity or WiFi.
Pro tip: The bucket doubles as your rolling cup – shake and dump for maximum drama.
Best for: Camping trips, RV gatherings, around the pool, game variety without packing 20 different games
Giant Wood Dominoes
These aren’t your grandma’s dominoes (though she’d probably love these too). We’re talking dominoes the size of cell phones that you can actually set up for massive chain reactions, or play traditional games where everyone can see the dots from their lawn chair. The color-coded pips make it easy to spot what you need, and the varnished finish means they can handle outdoor play. Comes with a carry bag for storage and transport – perfect for tossing in the RV or bringing to the campsite.
Best for: Camping trips, tailgates, lakeside gatherings, multigenerational game sessions
MegaChess Giant Chess Set
Look, we’re not saying you need a 4-foot king on your lawn. But we’re also not NOT saying that. These come in sizes of 12 inches, 16 inches, 25 inches, 37 inches, and 49 inches tall, and honestly? Even if you’ve never played chess in your life, you’d still want to stay at the Airbnb that has these. They’re that cool. People will literally gather to watch other people play. The pieces are made from UV-resistant, waterproof plastic so they can live outside all season, and the bases can be filled with sand or water for stability (up to 7 lbs per piece). Perfect for anyone who takes their chess seriously, wants an incredible photo op, or just wants their yard to look like a fantasy novel. Bonus points if you set it up on an actual checkered outdoor rug.
Reality check: These pieces are heavy when filled. Small children cannot run away with your rook. This is a feature, not a bug.
Best for: Vacation rental showstoppers, photo ops, impressing literally everyone, chess enthusiasts and non-players alike
Giant Twister
The classic party game that made us all question our flexibility, now big enough that you need an actual yard to play it. There are two ways to go here: the traditional giant mat version (30 players) that you can roll up and take anywhere, or the full inflatable base version that screams “you can only experience this HERE.” The inflatable one is a serious investment (we’re talking $1,800+) but if you’re running a vacation rental or planning a massive party, it’s the kind of amenity that gets your property shared in group chats. The giant mat version is perfect for families, camping trips, or anyone who wants the chaos without the commercial setup. Either way, watching adults contort themselves while trying not to fall on each other never gets old.
Party game warning: This one gets LOUD. In the best way.
Best for: Giant mat version – family reunions, camping, backyard parties
Inflatable version – vacation rentals, event rentals, “book THIS place” energy
Giant Scrabble
Letter tiles big enough to hold with both hands. A board you can walk around on. What starts as a casual game quickly becomes cutthroat when grandma plays QUIXOTIC for 87 points while everyone else is still trying to spell CAT. The giant format turns Scrabble into an active game – people are up, circling the board, dramatically placing tiles. Way more fun than hunching over a tiny board, and kids who “don’t like Scrabble” suddenly want to play because they get to move around.
Best for: Cabin rentals with outdoor space, covered patios, mixed-age competition, converting board game haters into players
Giant Inflatable Axe Throwing Game
Axe throwing bars became trendy for a reason – throwing axes is satisfying. But real axes at a rental property? That’s a liability nightmare. This 10-foot inflatable solves that problem brilliantly. You get the full axe-throwing experience with velcro axes that stick to the target, plus it comes with toss balls and soccer balls for variety. The genius part? It’s double-sided, so two people can compete head-to-head. Sets up in minutes with the included blower.
For Airbnb hosts, here’s the visual that matters: Picture potential guests scrolling listings. They see a photo of your backyard. In that photo, people are actively playing this massive inflatable axe throwing game, clearly having a blast. That’s the listing they click. That’s the property they remember. When guests can literally SEE the fun happening in your yard photos, you’re not just renting a house – you’re selling an experience. And yes, this gets mentioned in reviews. Every time.
Best for: Vacation rental properties, competitive entertainment, capturing the axe-throwing trend safely, Instagram-worthy yard activities
Hippo Chow Down
Up to 7 people at once, each attached to a bungee cord, all lunging toward a center ball pit trying to grab as many balls as possible before getting yanked back to their station. You’re fighting against the bungee resistance, racing against 6 other people, trying to grab balls from the center and drop them in your personal pit before the timer runs out or the center is empty. It’s frantic. It’s exhausting. It’s the kind of physical competition that creates absolute chaos and laughter.
The beauty of this game? Everyone plays simultaneously, so there’s no waiting for turns. The bungee resistance levels the playing field a bit (strong doesn’t always mean fast when you’re being pulled backward), and watching 7 people bouncing and lunging and competing all at once is pure entertainment for spectators too.
For vacation rentals and big events, this is the kind of game that handles large groups, creates incredible action photos, and becomes THE activity people remember. Nobody else has this.
Best for: VRBO properties, large family gatherings, group events, high-energy competition that entertains players AND watchers
Giant Inflatable Soccer Dartboard
This is the game that makes people scroll back up and click “book.” A 10-foot inflatable dartboard where you’re KICKING soccer balls, throwing footballs, or tossing any ball at velcro targets to score points. It’s part carnival game, part athletic challenge, part “I’ve never seen this before.” Sets up in under 2 minutes, the velcro is sticky enough that even small kids’ throws actually stick (no frustrating balls dropping off), and when you’re done it deflates and folds down for storage.
Here’s why Airbnb hosts need to pay attention: Ask any kid right now – would you rather sleep on a pullout couch at a house with a giant soccer dartboard, or have a “really nice bunk bed” at a house with nothing to do? They’ll pick the dartboard every time. Every other rental in your area has bunk beds and a fire pit. You? You have a 10-foot soccer dartboard. That’s the difference between “nice place” and guests tagging your property in every Instagram story, telling their friends “book THIS one.” Worth every penny for the differentiation alone.
Best for: Vacation rental showstoppers, properties targeting families, the “nobody else has this” factor.
Active & Sporty Games
For the people who came to PLAY. These active yard games for adults (and competitive teens) get your heart rate up, bring out everyone’s inner athlete, and usually result in someone making a diving catch they’ll talk about for the rest of the trip. Kids can join many of these too, but fair warning – the adults take them seriously.
Spikeball
If you haven’t seen Spikeball yet, where have you been? It’s like volleyball meets foursquare meets pure chaos. Two teams of two, one small round net, and a ball that bounces unpredictably. Sounds simple. Gets intense FAST.
Why it’s perfect for travel: The set folds down into a backpack-sized bag. You can set it up on grass, sand, or even in shallow water. It’s worth every inch of trunk space.
Camping gold: This game travels to campsites better than almost anything else on this list.
Slammo
Think of this as Spikeball’s slightly simpler cousin. Same concept – circular net, teams bouncing a ball – but often a bit more forgiving for beginners. Some people actually prefer it because the net is a little bigger and the ball bounces more predictably. Either way, you’re getting a great game.
Best for: Beach houses, families new to roundnet games, camping where you want Spikeball energy with a gentler learning curve
Kan Jam Disc Toss Game
Two big cylindrical targets, one frisbee, infinite trash talk. The goal is to hit the can or, even better, get the disc through the slot on top for an instant win. Games move fast, anyone can play, and it packs down surprisingly small for travel.
Real talk: You’ll get way better at throwing a frisbee. Like, surprisingly better.
Best for: Tailgates, beach trips, parking lot tournaments, anywhere you’ve got 15 feet of clearance
4 Square Volleyball Game
Take volleyball. Add four people. Make them each defend their own square. Watch the chaos unfold. This game is ADDICTIVE. You’ve got two options: the premium quick-setup version that pops up quick and anywhere (costs a bit more but worth it if you’re setting up constantly), or the standard version that’s still fast to set up but saves you some money. Both have adjustable height for different ages and work for 4-6 people, so pick based on your patience level and budget.
Party MVP: This game keeps people rotating in and out, so nobody’s waiting around for the next match.
Best for: Group vacations, beach houses, keeping 4-6 people entertained simultaneously
Badminton & Volleyball Combo Set:
Why pack two nets when one does both? This adjustable 32-foot net handles badminton AND volleyball, comes with everything you need (racquets, ball, boundary lines, carry bag), and sets up fast enough that you’ll actually use it. The height adjusts for whichever game you’re playing, and the whole system packs down into one bag. This is the ultimate “earn your trunk space” game – two sports, one setup, infinite entertainment. Perfect for when half the group wants volleyball and the other half wants badminton. Everyone wins.
Pro tip: The boundary lines are clutch for actually playing regulation games instead of “where’s out of bounds?” arguments.
Best for: Lake houses, beach getaways, multi-family trips, the “we can’t all agree on one sport” solution
Frisbee
The most basic, most packable, most versatile game on the planet. Fits anywhere. Works on any trip. You can play catch, ultimate frisbee, or use it as a plate for your camp snacks (we don’t judge). The best part? You can stash one in your car permanently as an emergency entertainment option – it lives through heat, cold, and being forgotten under the seat for months. Bonus: they make LED light-up versions now for night games, which completely changes the energy after dark. Everyone should own several in different colors so you know whose is whose.
Best for: Emergency car entertainment, camping trips, beach days, literally anywhere with open space
Pack-Friendly: Camping, RVing & Road Trips
These are the games that earn their spot in your vehicle. Not necessarily small, but definitely worth the space they take up. Whether you’re camping with kids who need entertainment between hikes, teens who claim they’re “too bored for this,” or adults who want something competitive by the campfire, these portable yard games actually get everyone playing. When you’re setting up camp or pulling into your Airbnb, these are the games that turn a good trip into a great one.
Spikeball
Yeah, it’s on this list twice. Because if you’re camping or RVing and you DON’T bring Spikeball, you’re honestly missing out. It’s THE camping game. Sets up anywhere, plays forever, and when you’re done it takes up less space than your sleeping bag.
Cornhole (Collapsible/Portable Version)
The full-size wooden boards are amazing but they’re not going in your trunk. The travel versions? Fold down flat, weigh a fraction as much, and still give you the full cornhole experience. These are clutch for camping or beach trips where space is limited but you’re not compromising on fun.
Bocce Ball
Eight balls and a jack in a carrying case. That’s it. Takes up minimal space, plays on almost any surface (beach, grass, dirt, gravel), and is one of those games where everyone from age 6 to 86 can play together. The zen version of yard games. Now, you’ve got options here: regulation-size sets (the real deal, heavier balls, official dimensions) or smaller casual sets that are lighter and more budget-friendly. Both play the same game – the regulation sets just feel more substantial and roll truer on grass. Pick based on whether you’re serious about bocce or just want a chill tossing game for the backyard.
BocceRoll
This is bocce’s cooler, faster cousin. Instead of just rolling balls, you’re rolling polyhedron shapes that bounce and move unpredictably. Plays faster than traditional bocce and adds an element of chaos that makes it especially fun for younger players who aren’t into the slow, strategic pace of regular bocce.
Ladder Ball
Three rungs, some bolas (two balls connected by a string), and surprisingly addictive gameplay. The ladder ball sets have seriously leveled up – we’re talking quality wooden construction that can take a beating, not the wobbly garbage from five years ago. The new travel versions break down for portability but they’re SOLID. Like, these will outlast your camping tent kind of solid. Rungs come apart, bolas store neatly, but when assembled? Sturdy enough to handle competitive tournament energy.
Best for: Camping trips, tailgate parties, beach houses, anywhere you want a game that actually survives the season
Ring Toss
Don’t sleep on ring toss just because it seems basic. The collapsible versions pack down to almost nothing, set up in seconds, and when you’re at a campsite with kids who have energy to burn, this becomes a lifesaver. Plus adults get weirdly competitive about it after a couple rounds.
Horseshoes (Portable Set)
The traditional backyard game in a pack-and-go format. Rubber horseshoes instead of metal (your RV’s bumper thanks you), and stakes that work in different ground types. Not as satisfying as the classic metal “clang” but way more practical for travel.
Ayeboovi Toss and Catch Ball Set
Remember those velcro paddle catch games from childhood? The modern versions are SO much better. The paddles actually stick, the balls are weighted right, and it’s one of those games you can play while half-paying attention around the campfire. Takes up almost no space, entertains for hours.
Bean Bag Bucketz
This is like cornhole and basketball had a baby. Collapsible bucket targets, bean bags that pack flat, and you’re tossing into elevated buckets at different point values. The buckets collapse completely flat, making this one of the most travel-efficient tossing games out there.
Badminton & Volleyball Combo Set (Pack-Friendly Version):
Two sports, one net system, one bag. This is peak “earn your trunk space” efficiency. The 32-foot adjustable net handles both badminton and volleyball, and the whole setup – net, racquets, ball, boundary lines – packs into a single carry bag. Sets up in minutes, plays for hours, and you’re getting two full games worth of entertainment without doubling your storage needs. Height adjusts between sports (5.1′ for badminton, up to 8′ for volleyball), and the telescoping poles make setup actually fast.
Pro tip: Our philosophy applies here – yes, it takes up space, but you’re getting TWO sports. That’s excellent fun ROI.
Best for: Lake houses, beach getaways, multi-family trips, the “we can’t all agree on one sport” solution
Cross Strike Bean Bag Toss
If regular cornhole feels too predictable, this is your upgrade. Instead of just tossing bags at a hole, you’re throwing to rotate colored planks and match patterns – it’s part accuracy, part strategy, part puzzle-solving. Portable, sets up anywhere (indoors or outdoors), and comes with game variation cards so you’re not playing the same way every time. Works solo or with up to 4 people, and packs down way smaller than traditional cornhole boards. The kind of game that makes people stop and say “wait, what is that?”
Best for: RV trips, camping, people who are over regular cornhole, strategic thinkers
Games for Everyone
Not everyone wants to dive and spike and compete. These outdoor games for kids, adults, and everyone in between are where skill levels don’t matter as much as just having a good time. Perfect for when grandpa with his cane, the 5-year-old, and competitive Uncle Mike all want to play together. These lawn games work for mixed-age groups, multigenerational gatherings, or when you want something chill that still feels like an activity.
Cornhole
The king of accessible yard games. You can play competitively or casually. You can play while holding a drink. You can play while having a conversation. Kids can play, grandparents can play, and everyone’s on roughly equal footing after five minutes of figuring out the throw.
Why it’s everywhere: Because it works. Simple as that.
Bocce Ball
Already mentioned in the travel section, but bocce deserves recognition as one of the most universally playable games. The rules are simple, the pace is gentle, and there’s actual strategy involved if you want to get into it. But you don’t have to. You can just roll balls and have a nice time.
Croquet Set
Old school and sometimes unfairly dismissed as boring. But hear us out – a good croquet set on a decent lawn is actually incredibly fun. You’re walking around, you’re strategizing, you’re occasionally knocking someone’s ball into the bushes (legally, within the rules). Very civilized chaos.
Secret appeal: It’s one of the few yard games you can play while genuinely having a conversation.
Ring Toss
Sometimes simple is perfect. Toss rings at stakes. That’s it. But it works for literally everyone – toddlers can do it, elderly relatives can do it from a chair, and you’d be surprised how into it people get.
Ladder Ball
Already covered in the travel section, but it belongs here too. Anyone can throw a bola. Whether it lands where you want is another story, but that’s what makes it fun. Low barrier to entry, high entertainment value.
Horseshoes
The classic American backyard game. There’s a reason it’s been around forever – it’s satisfying to play, works for all ages, and has just enough skill involved to keep things interesting without being frustrating. Plus that sound when you hit a ringer? Chef’s kiss.
Giant Tic Tac Toe:
Look, regular tic tac toe is… fine. Boring, but fine. Now take that game, blow it up to 4×4 feet, and make people THROW bean bags to claim their squares from a distance? Suddenly it’s actually fun. The throwing element adds skill and competition – you’re not just placing an X, you’re trying to land a bean bag in the right square while your opponent does the same. Adjust the distance based on age and ability (kids stand closer, adults back up for more challenge), and suddenly you’ve got a game that works for everyone. Comes with a carrying bag for transport, and bonus: they make glow-in-the-dark versions if you want to play after sunset.
Best for: All ages with adjustable difficulty, camping trips, beach days, turning a “boring” game into an actual challenge
Bean Bag Bucketz
Bean bag tossing games are perfect for the everyone category because the learning curve is about 30 seconds. You’re throwing soft bags at buckets. That’s it. But somehow you’ll play for an hour and everyone will have strong opinions about technique.
Outdoor Giant Lawn Bowling
Like regular bowling but outside, with full-sized wooden pins and rubber balls. And we’re talking actual hardwood here – not flimsy inflatables that blow over in a breeze. These pins are hand-polished, smooth, substantial enough that knocking them down feels SATISFYING. The set comes with 10 pins, 2 balls, and a carry bag, and plays on pretty much any surface (short grass, dirt, sand, even carpet or concrete). You can adjust difficulty by changing the throwing distance – kids up close, adults back it up for more challenge. The wood construction means this set will outlast the inflatable versions by years, and honestly, the weight makes the whole game feel more legit.
Best for: Family gatherings, multi-generational play, anyone who wants lawn games that actually last, picnic areas
Tossing & Target Games
For people who like aim, focus, and the satisfaction of hitting exactly what they were aiming at (or at least getting close). These yard games for kids and adults bring out everyone’s competitive side without exhausting anyone – you’re standing, tossing, scoring, and talking trash. The beauty is that skill builds fast, so the 8-year-old who figured it out first can legitimately beat the adults, and suddenly everyone cares DEEPLY about redemption. These tossing games scratch that target-practice itch without requiring any special skills or equipment beyond what comes in the box.
Cornhole
Yes, it’s on multiple lists. Because cornhole is the Swiss Army knife of yard games. It’s tossing, it’s targeting, it’s accessible, it’s competitive. You can play seriously or casually. It adapts to whoever’s playing it.
Ladder Ball
Throw bolas, wrap rungs, score points. The physics are just weird enough that you can’t quite master it – even people who are really good still miss sometimes. That’s what keeps it fun. Different rungs are worth different points, so there’s strategy to whether you go for the safe bottom rung or risk it for the top.
Ring Toss
The most straightforward tossing game. Rings, stakes, toss. But don’t let the simplicity fool you – people get VERY into trying to improve their technique. And watching someone finally nail that perfect toss after 20 tries? Very satisfying.
Horseshoes
The OG target tossing game. There’s something primal about hurling a horseshoe at a stake and hearing it clang. Modern rubber sets are safer and more portable, but if you have the space for a proper horseshoe pit with the real metal shoes? Do it. So satisfying.
Lawn Darts
Before you panic – we’re talking about the modern safe versions, not the pointy metal death spears from the ’80s that got banned. Current lawn darts have soft weighted tips that stick into the ground without being actually dangerous. The set comes with 4 darts, target rings in two sizes, and a carry bag for transport. Two ways to play (beginner and advanced levels), works for 2-4 players, and here’s the kicker – the target rings glow in the dark. So yes, you can play this after sunset, which honestly makes it way more fun. Still has that satisfying toss-and-stick action, just without the liability concerns.
Best for: Evening gatherings, camping trips, families with kids 5+, anyone nostalgic for lawn darts but not for emergency room visits
Axe Throwing Game Set
Remember those axe throwing bars where you pay $40/hour to chuck axes at wood targets? This is the home version. Look, it’s not going to feel exactly like throwing real axes (these can’t kill you nearly as easily, which is kind of the point), but the plastic axes with foam-grip tips still give you that satisfying THUNK when they stick into the target. You get the throwing motion, the competitive scoring, the trash talk, all without the liability of actual blades flying around your yard.
Pro tip: Get two sets. One target per person makes it way more competitive – you’re racing to hit your scores simultaneously instead of taking turns. Plus then you’ve got backup axes when someone inevitably throws one over the fence.
Best for: Backyard competitions, safer alternative to axe throwing bars, anywhere you want the vibe without the ER risk
Party Games
These are the games that create stories. The ones people will bring up years later. Whether it’s kid-friendly chaos like Granny Pants or adult party games with higher stakes, you’re not sure if you’re having fun or just doing something ridiculous – but it doesn’t matter because everyone’s laughing. Some of these work for all ages, others are strictly for the 21+ crowd, but they all deliver maximum entertainment.
Granny Pants Yard Game
This might be the most ridiculous game on this list. One person wears giant stretchy “granny pants” over their clothes while their teammates throw beach balls trying to land them IN the pants. The person wearing the pants is running around, dodging, trying to catch balls in their giant underwear while everyone else is lobbing balls at them. It’s complete chaos. It’s hilarious watching someone desperately wiggle to keep beach balls in their pants. It’s the kind of thing that makes everyone look ridiculous together, which is the best kind of party game. Teams compete to see who can get the most balls in the pants within a time limit.
Photo opportunity: OFF THE CHARTS.
Best for: Parties that need maximum chaos, team competitions, creating stories people won’t stop telling
Limbo Game
How low can you go? Turns out, not very low if you’re over 30. But that’s part of the fun. Here’s the thing about limbo though – it’s basically a magnet for making new friends. Set this up at the beach or a campground and watch strangers wander over to try it. Nobody can walk past a limbo bar without wondering if they can still do it. The modern sets come with music, lights, and adjustable bars, which just adds to the “come join us” energy. Maximum nostalgia, minimal skill required, and it’s one of those games that gets everyone laughing – including people you just met five minutes ago. If you’re looking to break the ice on vacation or just bring good vibes to public spaces, this is your move.
Best for: Tailgates, beach trips, making friends at campgrounds, anywhere you want to attract a crowd
Water Balloon Launcher Slingshot (500 Yards)
Three people hold this massive slingshot, someone loads a water balloon, and then you launch it approximately into the next area code. The range on these things is genuinely impressive (and a little scary). Perfect for hot days, outdoor parties, and people who love controlled chaos.
Safety note: Maybe don’t aim at people’s faces. Or windows. Or cars. You get the idea.
Tug of War Rope
Classic team competition. Pure strength, pure determination, pure trash talk. Get a good heavy rope (the ones with knots for grip are clutch), divide into teams, and settle all debates the old-fashioned way. Great for family reunions where you need to burn some energy.
Potato Sack Racing
Yes, really. And yes, adults playing this is even funnier than kids playing this. The modern sets come with durable sacks that can handle adult humans hopping around like maniacs. Great for team building, family reunions, or anytime you need an excuse to hop around and laugh at each other.
Hippo Chow Down
This is that game where you’re dressed as a hippo and racing to gobble up balls with your hippo mouth. It’s ridiculous. It’s exhausting. It’s hilarious to watch and play. The kind of game that makes sense at a kids’ party but somehow also makes sense at an adult party.
Human Wack-A-Mole
Picture the arcade game. Now picture humans popping up through holes in a play structure while someone else tries to “bonk” them with a soft mallet. It’s exactly as chaotic as it sounds. Definitely requires some setup and space, but the entertainment value is unmatched.
Customizable Slots Dropster Prize Drop Game
This is like Plinko but you get to customize what happens when the disc lands in each slot. You can do prizes, you can do dares, you can do drinking game rules for adults, or – and this is genius for group trips – you can assign responsibilities. Who’s cooking dinner? Who’s doing dishes? Who’s setting the table? Who’s putting leftovers away? Drop the disc and let chance decide. Suddenly trip logistics become entertainment instead of negotiation.
The beauty is it works for any age and any group dynamic. Traveling with your adult kids and their friends? Make it about divvying up dinner duties. Kids’ birthday party? Make it prizes and silly challenges. Game night? Make it drinking rules or dares. The Plinko part is fun regardless, but the customization is what makes this actually useful beyond just being a game.
Best for: Group trips, avoiding the “who’s cooking?” argument, party games with a purpose, making responsibilities fun
Human Foosball
Actual foosball tables but you’re the players. You’re holding onto poles, you can only move side to side, and you’re trying to kick a soccer ball into the goal. Requires a decent amount of setup (you need the PVC frame and the poles) but when you’ve got it going? Incredibly fun. Also surprisingly good exercise.
Human Billiards
Giant inflatable billiard balls that humans wear and knock into each other. You’re the cue ball. Your friends are the other balls. Someone’s calling shots like it’s a real pool game. Complete mayhem. Totally worth it.
Zorb Balls (Human Bowling)
Already mentioned in Active & Sporty, but belongs in Party Games too. Because climbing inside a giant inflatable ball and rolling at oversized bowling pins is peak party energy. You’ll want supervision, you’ll want space, and you’ll want a video of everyone’s attempts.
Giant Twister
Also appeared in Giant Games, but deserves a mention here because Giant Twister at a party is a whole different energy than casual Giant Twister. People end up in the most ridiculous positions. The laughing makes it harder to stay balanced. It’s perfect chaos.
DIY Yard Games
Look, we’re not going to lie to you. Building your own yard games isn’t always cheaper. We built our own cornhole set and while it might last longer, it definitely didn’t save money. But here’s what it DID do – it made the game more fun. There’s something about playing on something you built yourself. Plus if you’ve got a weekend, some basic tools, and a desire for a project, these are genuinely satisfying to make.
DIY Cornhole
Our cornhole story: We built own set thinking it would be budget-friendly. Spent just as much as buying one. But you know what? It’s OUR cornhole set. We picked the wood, sanded it ourself, painted it custom colors. Every time someone plays on it, there’s that little pride moment. Sometimes that’s worth more than saving $50. Find diy plans here.
Giant Guess Who (Customized “Guess Where”)
Here’s where it gets creative. Some companies make these giant Guess Who games, but the REAL move for Airbnb hosts? Customize it to “Guess Where” with local landmarks, restaurants, and attractions. Suddenly your guests are learning about your area while playing a game. That’s the kind of thoughtful touch that gets you 5-star reviews.
DIY Giant Jenga
This is probably the most DIY-friendly project on this list. You’re basically cutting 2x4s into identical blocks. That’s it. Sand them smooth, maybe add a weatherproof finish, and you’ve got yourself a giant Jenga set for a fraction of the cost of buying one. Find diy plans here.
DIY Ladder Ball
PVC pipe or wood – you’ve got options here. The PVC version is lighter, more portable, and easier for beginners (just cutting pipe and connecting pieces). The wooden version feels more substantial and looks more professional, but requires more tools and skill. Both play the same game, so pick based on whether you want lightweight portability or backyard permanence. Either way, you’re looking at about an hour of work and materials that cost less than buying a pre-made set.
DIY Horseshoe Pit
If you’ve got yard space, a proper horseshoe pit is a weekend project that adds permanent value. You’re digging two pits, adding sand, setting stakes, and boom – you’ve got a classic American backyard game setup.
DIY Bocce Court
A flat stretch of lawn, packed dirt, or even concrete, some borders, and you’ve technically got a bocce court. Concrete actually works great – it’s flat, consistent, and the balls roll true. If you want to go full fancy on grass or dirt, you can add crushed oyster shells or clay for that authentic Italian feel, but honestly a well-maintained grass court or a smooth concrete slab both work perfectly.
Giant Backyard Ker-Plunk (DIY)
Remember pulling those sticks out one by one, praying the marbles wouldn’t fall? Now imagine building the giant yard version with sticks the size of dowel rods and balls you can actually see from across the yard. Here’s the thing – you’re basically going to have to DIY this one. Commercial versions exist but they’ll cost you a pretty penny, and honestly, building it yourself is half the fun (and way more budget-friendly).
For vacation rental hosts: This is the kind of unique, handmade game that makes your property memorable. Nobody else has giant Ker-Plunk. It photographs incredibly well, it’s a conversation starter, and guests will absolutely mention it in reviews.
DIY Mini Golf
This is the “go as elaborate as you want” project. You can make one hole with some PVC pipe and a plywood ramp. Or you can spend six months building a 9-hole course with windmills and loop-de-loops. The choice is yours.
The beauty: You can start small and expand forever. Every time you have a free weekend, add another hole.
For Airbnb & Vacation Rental Hosts: Games That Drive Bookings
Okay, real talk. Your competition in the vacation rental market has 5 bedrooms with actual beds (we’re not counting rooms with 3 sets of bunk beds – but that’s a conversation for another article). They have grills. They have WiFi. Some of them are cheaper than you. So what makes someone pick YOUR property?
This stuff.
Nobody books an Airbnb because they’re excited to cook dinner. But they’ll absolutely book the Airbnb where they can play cornhole while dinner’s cooking. You can entertain half the group while the other half is getting ready. You can keep the people who never stop moving occupied while everyone else relaxes. And before you know it, you’re getting 5-star reviews that specifically mention “the games” as a reason they’re booking again.
While everyone else is figuring out how to cram more beds into bedrooms, you could be the host who actually understands what makes a vacation rental memorable. Here’s what works.
Permanent Installations (The Big Investments)
These are the games that stay at your property. They’re the amenities people see in your photos and immediately text their friends about.
9 Square in the Air
This is the “I’ve never seen this before” game that people mention in reviews. It’s volleyball meets foursquare, suspended in the air, and it creates this incredibly fun rotating gameplay where up to 9 people are competing to stay in the center square. Groups love it because everyone can play at once. Families love it because it works for mixed ages. And you love it because it’s a unique amenity that’s actually visible in listing photos.
Investment level: Medium-high. The frame is permanent. The ball is replaceable.
Space needed: About 15×15 feet
Maintenance: Minimal – the frame stays up year-round in most climates
Zorb Balls (Human Bowling)
You know those giant inflatable balls you climb inside and then bounce around like a hamster? Those. Set up some giant pins and you’ve got human bowling. Ridiculous? Yes. Hilarious? Absolutely. Worth it? If you’ve got the space and the budget for maximum chaos, these are unmatched.
Fair warning: You need significant space and people will want turns. Many turns.
Outdoor Table Tennis
Weatherproof ping pong tables have come a long way. Many fold up for storage, are rust-resistant, and can live outside all season. The investment is real, but so is the amount of use they get. Basically becomes the default hangout spot.
Mini Golf Setup
A 3-6 hole mini golf course on your property is the kind of thing that makes families with kids immediately click “book.” You can DIY this (see DIY section) or buy pre-made obstacles. Either way, it’s something guests can enjoy without leaving the property, which is exactly what makes vacation rentals valuable.
Hot Tub
Yes, we’re including this even though it’s not technically a “game.” Because if you’re looking at amenity investments that drive bookings, a hot tub (even an above-ground one) is the kind of thing that literally changes your booking rate. People specifically search for “hot tub” when filtering properties.
Movie Projector Setup
An outdoor movie night setup – projector, screen (or blank wall), seating area. This is another one of those “not a game but absolutely worth mentioning to hosts” amenities. Evening entertainment that doesn’t require leaving the property? That’s valuable.
Investment level: Medium (projector + screen)
Space needed: Wall or screen space, seating area
Maintenance: Low – store projector inside, screen can usually stay up
Outdoor Pool Table
If you’ve got a covered patio or outdoor space and budget for it, a weatherproof outdoor pool table is a showstopper amenity. Make sure you get one with quality sticks that still have tips – nobody wants to play with stripped stick tips.
Investment level: High
Space needed: Significant – plan for walking space around table
Maintenance: Cover when not in use, felt maintenance
Flybar FunPark Giant Inflatable Skee-Ball
This thing is basically a carnival game in your backyard. The nostalgia factor is huge. It’s something kids and adults both want to play. And it’s unique – most vacation rentals don’t have this.
Investment level: Medium
Space needed: Can inflate/deflate, about 8 feet tall
Maintenance: Needs inflation, store when not in use
Disc Golf
If you’ve got some yard space and trees, a disc golf course is one of the smartest low-cost investments you can make. Buy 3-9 portable basket targets (they’re weather-resistant and last forever), design your course around natural obstacles, and suddenly you’ve got a unique amenity that costs almost nothing to maintain. Guests bring their own discs or you provide a starter set.
The genius here? Once it’s set up, it’s zero ongoing cost, works for all ages, and it’s the kind of thing families specifically search for. “Properties with disc golf” is an actual filter some people use. Plus it encourages guests to actually use your outdoor space instead of just looking at it. Low investment, high perceived value, lasts for years.
Investment level: Low (baskets) to Medium (full course with signage)
Space needed: Flexible 1 or more
Maintenance: Basically zero – baskets stay outside year-round
The ROI Reality
Here’s the math that matters: If spending $500 on games gets you one extra booking per month at $200/night for a 3-night stay, that’s $600. Your games paid for themselves in the first month and everything after that is profit. Plus the increase in positive reviews and repeat bookings.
But more importantly – and we can’t stress this enough – these amenities change the type of reviews you get. Instead of “nice place,” you get “the kids played cornhole for hours,” “the giant Jenga was a hit,” “we’re already planning to book again next year.”
That’s the difference between a rental property and a vacation destination.
What Not to Do
- Don’t buy the cheapest version of everything. Rental use is hard on equipment. Buy mid-tier or better.
- Don’t overcrowd the yard. A few great games is better than 20 mediocre ones.
- Don’t put games in storage. If guests have to ask for them or dig them out, they won’t use them. Make them visible and accessible.
- Don’t forget to photograph everything well. These amenities only drive bookings if people can see them in your listing.
Maintenance Reality Check
Games left outside get weathered. Factor in replacement costs. Budget about $100-200/year for replacing worn-out equipment. It’s part of the cost of running a rental property, just like replacing towels and sheets.
But here’s the thing – worn-out giant Jenga blocks from tons of happy guests? That’s a good problem to have. It means people are using your amenities and having the kind of vacation they’ll want to repeat.
Final Word
That’s the list. Every game we could think of that’s worth your time, money, and trunk space. Some of these you’ll buy. Some you’ll build. Some you’ll scroll past thinking “that’s ridiculous” and then see them at someone else’s house and immediately understand.
The point is – yard games aren’t just about having something to do. They’re about creating those moments where everyone’s outside, someone’s laughing, someone’s talking trash, and you realize this is what vacation is actually about. Not the destination. Not the accommodation. The time spent together doing something fun.
So pick a few games. Pack them for your next trip. Set them up at your next gathering. And watch what happens when you give people a reason to put down their phones and play.
Happy gaming.
P.S. to Airbnb Hosts: Seriously, the games thing works. Your guests are already splitting the cost of a rental between multiple people. They want to hang out together. Give them a way to do that beyond “sitting inside” and you’ll see it reflected in your reviews and rebooking rate. Start with two or three games, see what gets used, and expand from there. You’ve got this.
Want more travel tips, outdoor gear recommendations, and honest advice about making the most of your trips? That’s what we do at Road Trip Owl. Check out our other guides and let us know what we should cover next.
P.S.S When the Weather Doesn’t Cooperate
Rain happens. Sunburn happens. Sometimes you just need to be inside. When that’s the case, we’ve got you covered with our complete guide to travel-friendly board games, card games, and party games. Because the fun shouldn’t stop just because you’re indoors.
Airbnb hosts: That article also breaks down exactly which indoor games guests actually want and use – great intel for stocking your game shelf.
Check out our game night guide here.
