Colin FosterBy Colin Foster

Updated November 2026

Cheap DIY outdoor games are one of the easiest ways to fill a backyard with fun without a big shopping trip. Most can be built from scrap lumber, rope, buckets and old sporting goods you already own. This guide walks through how to choose a game, gather materials, build it safely and keep it in good shape.

Choose Games That Match Your Materials and Space

Start with what you have on hand before you pick a game. A stack of pallet wood suggests a ring toss or a bean bag toss, while a bucket and a few tennis balls point toward a target game. Measure the play area too. A 10-by-10-foot patch works for a cornhole-style board, but a horseshoe pit needs a longer, clear lane. Matching the game to the space keeps the build simple and the play area uncluttered.

Shopping for one? See our guide: 5 Best No Equipment Outdoor Games for Families and Kids.

Build a Simple Game Step by Step

Most backyard games follow the same build pattern: cut the base, attach the target or boundary, then test the setup before anyone plays. Here is a basic process you can use for a bean bag toss board.

  1. Cut two pieces of 3/4-inch plywood to 24 by 36 inches for the boards.
  2. Cut a 6-inch hole, centered about 9 inches from the top edge of each board.
  3. Sand every edge and corner until smooth to the touch.
  4. Seal the boards with an exterior-rated paint or outdoor sealer, and let them dry fully.
  5. Set the boards 27 feet apart for adult play, or about 15 feet for younger players.

Ring toss, ladder ball and target bucket games follow the same idea: cut to size, sand, finish and check the layout with a tape measure.

Pick Materials for Durability and Safety

Outdoor games take weather and rough handling, so choose materials that can handle both. Pressure-treated lumber resists rot, but it should not be used for surfaces where hands or mouths contact often, so sealed plywood or cedar is a safer choice for boards. Rope should be UV-resistant if it will stay outside, and any metal parts should be galvanized or coated to resist rust. Sand off splinters and round all corners before the first game.

Plan the Play Area and Rules

Mark boundaries with stakes and string, or use existing features like a fence or patio edge. Keep the area clear of tripping hazards, garden beds and hard edges within a few feet of the play zone. Write down simple rules and post them near the game, especially for kids. Clear rules reduce arguments and keep the game moving.

Tools and supplies to have on hand

  • Tape measure and pencil
  • Jigsaw or circular saw, with safety glasses and hearing protection
  • Sandpaper (80 and 120 grit) or an orbital sander
  • Exterior paint or outdoor sealer
  • Drill with bits, plus exterior-grade screws or bolts
  • Stakes, string and a mallet for marking boundaries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the sanding step, which leaves splinters that can injure players.
  • Using untreated scrap wood that warps or rots after a few rainy weeks.
  • Setting up the game too close to a fence, shed or patio edge, leaving no room to move.
  • Forgetting to check screws and bolts every few weeks, especially after heavy use.
  • Building for adults only, when a lower target height or shorter throw distance suits younger children.

A few inexpensive supplies make DIY builds faster and safer. A quality set of sanding pads keeps edges smooth, a basic measuring tape keeps layouts accurate, and a weatherproof bag protects bean bags and balls from damp grass.

  • Sanding sponges for smoothing rough edges on wood game boards. View on Amazon
  • A 25-foot tape measure for marking court lines and target distances. View on Amazon
  • Weather-resistant storage bags for keeping bean bags and game pieces dry. View on Amazon

FAQ

What is the easiest cheap DIY outdoor game to build?

A bean bag toss or ring toss is usually the simplest, since it needs only scrap wood, a drill and a few bags or rings. Both can be finished in an afternoon.

Which materials last longest outdoors?

Sealed plywood, cedar and UV-resistant rope tend to hold up well in weather. Coated or galvanized hardware helps prevent rust.

Are DIY games safe for kids?

They can be, if you sand all edges, avoid sharp corners and keep the play area clear. Adults should supervise younger children, and any structure that could tip or hold weight should be checked by a qualified professional before use.

Conclusion

Cheap DIY outdoor games come down to matching a simple design to the materials and space you already have. Build carefully, sand well, seal the wood and set clear rules. With a little planning, a weekend project can give your backyard hours of play.

Ready to choose one?

Colin Foster

About Colin Foster

Colin Foster is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our backyard living & play guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.