Families around the world are always looking for fun ways to bond and spend quality time together. With the rise of technology and screen time, it’s becoming more important than ever to get outdoors and enjoy fresh air and physical activity. Whether you’re in the USA, UK, Canada, or anywhere else, outdoor games for families are a great way to foster connection and create lasting memories.
This guide explores a variety of outdoor games for families, from simple DIY options to no-equipment classics that can be played at home, in parks, or during family gatherings. Let’s dive in and discover some exciting options to elevate your next family outing.
Traditional Outdoor Games for Families
Traditional outdoor games have been passed down through generations and continue to be family favorites. They are often simple to organize and can be played with minimal setup.
Tag (USA, UK, Canada)
Tag is an ageless classic that children and adults alike can enjoy. One person is designated as “it” and chases the others around until they tag someone, who then becomes “it.”
- Why it works: No equipment required, suitable for all ages, and great for both large and small spaces.
- Variations: Freeze tag, where tagged players must freeze in place until another player unfreezes them.
Capture the Flag
This high-energy game involves dividing players into two teams, each with a flag hidden somewhere in their territory. The objective is to steal the other team’s flag and bring it back to your own side.
- Great for: Large open spaces like parks or fields.
- Tip: Use brightly colored scarves or bandanas as flags to make the game more visually exciting.
DIY Outdoor Games for Families
For families who love creativity and enjoy DIY projects, there are plenty of ways to make your own outdoor games using common household items.
DIY Obstacle Course
Create a fun and challenging obstacle course in your backyard using items like ropes, cones, hula hoops, and chairs. Set up stations where family members can jump, crawl, or balance through different challenges.
- Materials: Pool noodles, buckets, sports cones, and a stopwatch to time competitors.
- Why it works: Promotes physical activity while encouraging teamwork and problem-solving.
Giant Jenga
A larger-than-life version of the indoor classic, Giant Jenga is a fun and intense game for the whole family. Build a giant Jenga set using wooden blocks, which you can either purchase or make at home.
- Materials: Wooden blocks, sanding paper (to smooth edges).
- Why it works: Helps build hand-eye coordination and encourages strategic thinking.
Outdoor Games for Families at Home
You don’t need to travel far to enjoy outdoor games with your family. Your own backyard or driveway can be the perfect venue for some fun.
Water Balloon Toss
A favorite on hot days, a water balloon toss is perfect for cooling off and having a blast. Pair up and toss water balloons back and forth, taking a step back with each successful catch. The goal is to keep the balloon intact as long as possible.
- What you need: Water balloons, a water source, and a sunny day.
- Pro tip: Play this on a lawn to avoid any damage from popped balloons.
Cornhole (Bean Bag Toss)
Cornhole is a popular lawn game where players take turns tossing bean bags onto a raised board with a hole in it. The game is simple to set up and suitable for players of all ages.
- DIY option: Build your own board using plywood and some paint for decoration.
- Why it works: Easy to learn and endlessly fun, especially during barbecues or picnics.
Outdoor Games for Families with No Equipment
Sometimes, the best games are the simplest ones—those that don’t require any equipment at all. Here are a few ideas for games that you can start playing immediately.
Hide and Seek
A classic game of hiding and seeking never gets old. One person counts to a set number while the others hide. The seeker then has to find everyone.
- Why it works: No equipment needed, fun for all ages, and can be played almost anywhere.
- Tip: Make it more challenging by adding rules like limiting the hiding area or playing at dusk.
Red Light, Green Light
In this simple game, one person calls out “green light” to signal players to move forward and “red light” to make them stop. If someone moves after “red light” is called, they must return to the start.
- Great for: Teaching listening skills and coordination in young children.
- Perfect for: Wide-open spaces like parks or playgrounds.
Outdoor Sports for Families
If you’re looking for something a little more structured, organized sports can be a great way to get the whole family involved in outdoor activities.
Soccer
Soccer is one of the most accessible sports for families. With just a ball and some space, you can set up a game almost anywhere. Even younger children can participate by practicing basic skills like passing and kicking.
- Why it works: Encourages teamwork, boosts fitness, and requires minimal equipment.
- Tip: Use cones, bags, or water bottles as goalposts if you don’t have a net.
Family Softball
If your family enjoys a bit of competition, consider setting up a casual game of softball. The game is ideal for larger groups and works well at family reunions or gatherings.
- What you need: A softball, bat, and a few bases (which can be anything from pillows to jackets).
- Why it works: Combines physical activity with the fun of friendly competition.
Outdoor Games for Family Gatherings
Family gatherings are the perfect opportunity to get everyone involved in fun and energetic outdoor games.
Sack Race
All you need for a sack race is a few potato sacks or large pillowcases. Players hop their way to the finish line, racing against each other in a test of balance and speed.
- Great for: Kids and adults alike. It’s simple yet thrilling.
- Why it works: Easy to organize and guarantees lots of laughter.
Three-Legged Race
In the three-legged race, pairs of participants tie one of their legs to each other and race toward the finish line. Coordination and communication are key to success in this hilarious race.
- What you need: A scarf or band to tie legs together.
- Why it works: Great for family teamwork and can be played with all age groups.
Outdoor Games for Family Reunions
Family reunions offer a great time to organize larger, more elaborate games that everyone can enjoy, regardless of age.
Relay Race
Relay races are fun, fast-paced games that can be easily adapted to suit your group’s size and skill level. You can include different challenges, like balancing an egg on a spoon or running through an obstacle course.
- Why it works: It’s customizable and engages multiple family members at once.
- Tip: Divide the family into teams to create a friendly competition.
Tug of War
Tug of war is a game of strength and strategy. Split the family into two teams and compete to pull a rope past a set point. It’s a game that’s sure to bring out the competitive spirit in everyone.
- What you need: A sturdy rope and a large playing area.
- Why it works: It’s thrilling, easy to set up, and can include everyone.
Outdoor Games for Family Day or Picnic
On relaxed family days or picnics, simple, low-intensity games can keep everyone entertained without requiring too much effort or setup.
Frisbee
Frisbee is a light-hearted game that can be played with just a disc. You can play in pairs, or make it competitive by setting goals or playing ultimate Frisbee.
- Why it works: Ideal for open spaces like beaches or parks, and it’s perfect for people of all ages.
Conclusion: Have Fun, Stay Active
Outdoor games for families offer the perfect way to spend quality time together while enjoying the outdoors. Whether you’re planning a casual day at home or a big family reunion, these games ensure everyone has a blast. With a mix of DIY options, no-equipment classics, and organized sports, there’s something here for every family, regardless of location or skill level. Get outside, get moving, and most importantly—have fun!