The best backyard family games for endless outdoor fun
There’s nothing better than a backyard that buzzes with laughter, excitement and just a little bit of friendly competition. Screens may try to steal the show nowadays, but it’s time to bring back the thrill of a bit of outdoor play - where kids can climb, swing, and run wild, parents just in on the fun, and you can all make some memories that last.
Need some fresh ideas on how to turn your backyard into the ultimate play area? We’ve got just the thing for you. From some classic games with a twist to team challenges, these backyard family games will be sure to get everyone moving. And with Funky Monkey Bars, the fun only gets bigger and better.
Classic backyard family games with a twist
1. Hide-and-seek adventure
Hide-and-seek never gets old—it’s a classic for a reason! But why not level up the fun? Add climbing frames, swings, or play structures to the mix—scale to new hiding spots, swing past seekers, or tuck away behind platforms for an extra challenge.
2. Obstacle course extravaganza
Turn your backyard into an action-packed obstacle course! Dash around trees, hop through hula hoops, crawl under picnic tables, and climb over play equipment.
Add extras like cargo nets, a floating flying fox, or a firefighter’s pole for an extra challenge. Time each family member and see who can conquer the course the fastest—it’s a guaranteed giggle-fest!
3. Tug-of-war showdown
Grab a sturdy rope and get ready for a tug-of-war showdown! Rally the family for a test of strength, or take it up a notch by tying the rope to a monkey bar set for a hanging challenge—who can hold on the longest before tumbling into the grass below? Let the friendly competition begin!
Creative and active backyard family games to keep kids moving
4. Ninja Warrior challenge
For little warriors who love a challenge, set up a Ninja Warrior-style course! Time their monkey bar swings, test their skills on a ring traverse without touching the ground or see who can hang on the longest.
Want to up the ante? Add hanging grips, a gymnastic bar, or Roman rings for the ultimate backyard training ground!
5. The floor is lava!
This game never loses its spark! The ground is lava, and the only way to survive is by climbing, swinging, and balancing on anything that keeps your feet off the floor. Scatter cushions, stepping stones, or mats as “safe zones,” then watch as kids get creative, strategise their escape, and put their coordination to the test.
6. Target practice fun
Turn your backyard into a target range with bean bags, balls, or water balloons! Hang a bucket from a climbing frame or set up target zones on the grass. Kids can take turns aiming, tossing, and perfecting their hand-eye coordination—all while enjoying some friendly (and sometimes splashy) competition!
Team backyard family games for the whole family
7. Relay races with a twist
Get ready to race! Set up a backyard relay where each participant tackles a different challenge—climb across monkey bars, balance on a beam, jump rope, or cartwheel before tagging the next player. Add a fireman’s pole or a floating flying fox for an extra thrill.
8. Capture the flag – backyard edition
Capture the Flag gets an epic upgrade with climbing challenges! Hide the flag somewhere in the garden and watch as players plot their path to victory. Will they swing, climb, or leap their way to triumph? Strategy, speed, and a little daring will decide the champions!
9. Simon Says – play equipment edition
Put a backyard spin on this classic game! ‘Simon Says hang like a monkey!’ or ‘Simon Says spin in circles!’ Add silly, tricky moves to keep everyone on their toes and laughing.
For extra fun, use a Swinging Cubby or Longboard Swing to shake things up—who can follow Simon’s commands without slipping up?
Encouraging free play and imagination
10. Backyard pirate ship adventure
Turn your backyard into a swashbuckling pirate ship adventure! Kids can climb aboard play structures, swing over ‘treacherous’ waters, and hunt for buried treasure (hidden toys or small prizes). With a little imagination, the backyard becomes the high seas—who will be captain of this grand voyage?
11. Water balloon madness
Beat the heat with splash-tastic water games! Set up a water balloon toss, or place a sprinkler near climbing frames for a cool, refreshing challenge. For an extra surprise, balance a bucket of water on top of a play structure—who will get the unexpected splash?
12. DIY chalk obstacle course
Unleash creativity with a giant chalk obstacle course! Draw hopscotch patterns, balance beams, and twisty paths leading to play equipment. Kids can jump, skip, and climb their way to the finish line—who will conquer the course first? Let the backyard adventures begin!
The benefits of outdoor play
The magic of backyard family games goes beyond just having fun—they help kids build strength, coordination, and confidence while keeping them active and engaged. Parents get to enjoy quality time, watching their little ones grow, learn, and laugh. Plus, playing together fosters teamwork, strengthens family bonds, and creates memories that last a lifetime.
With the right setup—like sturdy, adaptable play equipment—outdoor play becomes even more exciting. Designed to grow with your kids, these structures provide endless opportunities to climb, swing, and explore, ensuring the fun never stops!
Get outside and play with Funky Monkey Bars!
Ready to turn your backyard into the ultimate play zone? Whether it’s an action-packed game of hide-and-seek, a thrilling obstacle course, or a brand-new adventure, there’s no limit to the fun your family can have with a monkey bar set.
Swing by Funky Monkey Bars to find the perfect playset to elevate the excitement—and let the backyard adventures begin!