Summer is coming up, and it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy the warm weather. Playing outdoor games with family and friends can be a fun way to make memories together while getting some exercise. In this article, we will cover the top 5 most popular and best outdoor games to play in the USA.
Introduction
Outdoor games provide a great opportunity to get some fresh air and vitamin D while having fun with loved ones. They can be played in backyards, at parks, on hiking trails, at campsites, or anywhere with enough open space.
Outdoor games range from competitive sports to more casual, laidback activities. They allow for bonding through laughter, teamwork, and friendly competition. Some games get the adrenaline pumping, while others are lower intensity. There are options for all ages and fitness levels.
When choosing the best outdoor games in America, several factors come into play. Popularity and crossover appeal are important to consider – games that have stood the test of time and are enjoyed by different generations. Equipment needs, space requirements, and setup time are also key elements. Safety, of course, is paramount.
Below are the top 5 outdoor games that score highly across all of these criteria. Get ready for some old-fashioned fun in the sun!
Cornhole
Cornhole is one of the most popular lawn games in America. Also known as bean bag toss, players take turns throwing cloth or plastic bags filled with corn or resin pellets at a raised platform with a hole at the far end. A bag in the hole is worth 3 points, while one on the platform is worth 1 point.
This backyard classic has swept the nation for good reason – it’s simple to set up and play, accommodates all ages, and is endlessly enjoyable. Just place two cornhole platforms 27 feet apart, divide into teams, and start tossing! Some key benefits:
- Minimal equipment – just the boards and bags
- Easy to transport to different locations
- Fun for all ages and fitness levels
- Encourages friendly competition
- Inexpensive to purchase supplies
- Engaging to play and watch
Cornhole tournaments have also become popular nationwide, especially in the Midwest. So grab a cold drink and challenge your family to a game – just be prepared for things to get competitive!
Ladder Toss
Ladder toss (also called ladder ball) combines elements of cornhole with a vertically challenging twist. Players take turns tossing bolas (two golf balls attached by a string) towards a ladder-style rack with three rungs. The objective is to wrap your bolas around the highest rungs possible.
Setting up ladder toss is simple – just place two ladder racks facing each other with 15-30 feet between them. Each player/team gets 3 bolas. Toss them underhand with the goal of looping them over the rungs. The top rung scores 3 points, middle scores 2, bottom scores 1. Highest score after a set number of rounds wins!
Ladder toss is addicting for several reasons:
- Unique vertical challenge
- Satisfying when you get bolas to stick
- Easy to learn but gets competitive
- Portable and adjustable setup
- Fun for kids and adults
The game involves hand-eye coordination and gentle throwing motion, so it’s low impact yet engaging. Ladder toss is sure to be a hit at your next backyard barbecue or park gathering!
KanJam
If you like playing games that get your blood pumping, then KanJam is for you. This fast-paced disc game combines elements of flying disc sports and cornhole.
To play KanJam, divide into 2 teams and stand on opposite sides of the KanJam goal – a box with slot openings on each end. Players must throw or deflect a flying disc into the goal slots to score points. You can smack the disc down into the goal with your hand to score an “instant win.” Games are lively and quick.
Some key advantages of KanJam:
- Exciting play requiring agility and reflexes
- Games go quickly – first to exactly 21 points wins
- Easy to set up and transport (foldable plastic goal)
- Get your heart rate up while having fun
- Playable on grass, sand, indoors, etc.
- Engaging even for spectators
KanJam originated in western New York but has exploded in popularity across North America due to its fast-paced thrills. If your family is competitive and high energy, KanJam is a must-try outdoor game.
Spikeball
Spikeball is best described as “roundnet volleyball on trampolines.” This exciting 2 vs 2 game uses a small trampoline net and ball to create fast-paced, intense action.
To set up spikeball, inflate the 12-inch ball and place the miniature trampoline on flat ground. Teams stand around the net and use overhand hitting motions to volley the ball into the net. You score points if the other team fails to return the ball properly. Games are quick and require sharp reflexes.
Reasons spikeball has become a hugely popular outdoor game:
- Fast-paced, exciting play
- Games only go to 21 points
- Requires agility and quick reflexes
- Portable equipment for any location
- Thrilling to watch and play
- Competitive but also fun recreationally
Spikeball can be played competitively in tournaments or just for fun with family. Either way, the game provides an intense adrenaline rush! Just be ready to dive around.
Bocce Ball
On the more relaxed end of outdoor games is bocce ball. Played for centuries, bocce is a simple yet engaging lawn game perfect for players of all ages.
Bocce requires only a set of bocce balls and a flat, open playing area. Players take turns rolling or tossing balls as close as possible to the smaller target ball (pallino). Your goal is to get your team’s balls closer than your opponent’s balls in each frame. It’s less about power throwing and more about accuracy.
Reasons bocce ball remains a beloved low-key outdoor game:
- Simple rules easy for kids to seniors
- Minimal equipment needed
- Slow paced and low intensity
- Encourages socializing and bonding
- Inexpensive to buy bocce set
- Playable on grass, sand, etc.
- Relaxing way to spend time outdoors
Bocce ball is the perfect laidback complement to more active games. Roll a few frames at the park, beach, or backyard and enjoy the nostalgia of this classic outdoor pastime.
Conclusion
The best outdoor games provide fun for everyone while getting friends and families outdoors together. Cornhole, ladder toss, KanJam, spikeball, and bocce ball are 5 excellent options to try this summer in America.
From laidback bocce ball to intense spikeball, there’s an outdoor game to match every personality and occasion. Setup is generally quick and equipment minimal – all you need is open space to play. Have a new game to suggest or outdoor memory to share? Let us know in the comments!
