Kids love time in the backyard. From summer barbecues to pool parties with friends, it may feel like your kids live in this area of the home. While having a pool, games, and other fun outdoor activities is pretty awesome for your children, nothing is more exciting than a playground.
Are you thinking of building an outdoor jungle gym? Or how about a kids outdoor fort? Whether you hire a professional team to build a playground paradise, or you try to tackle a DIY project, there are many backyard playground ideas to consider.
Keep reading as we list 35 backyard playground ideas to help you design the outdoor space your kids will love:
But first, here is a small gist of the backyard playground ideas for your kids have fun with:
- Small Rock Climbing Wall
- DIY Backyard Slide
- Giant Jenga Set
- Outdoor Reading Nook
- Tire Tunnel
- DIY Seesaw
- Vertical Climbing Rope
- Swinging Ropes
- Carousel
- And more!
Small Rock Climbing Wall
A lot of kids love rock climbing. And they’re usually really good at it too! This is a very exciting and safe sport if you do it properly. Building a small DIY backyard rock climbing wall is easy! All you need to do is build a structure made out of wood, screw in the rock holds, and you’re all set. Once you build the wall, try painting a fun art mural with your kids. This is a great way to get them involved in the building process, and they can also show off their awesome art skills!
Sailboat Sandbox
Most kids love playing in the sand. That said, a DIY sandbox project is a great backyard solution! One unique idea that looks amazing is building a sandbox that looks just like a sailboat. This outdoor play structure should be a small, rectangular shape; around 3 feet by 6 feet. Then, all you have to do is find a beach-inspired shade sail to drape over the top. Not only does the final product look incredible, but the structure also protects your kids from the harsh sun.
Plastic, Colored Backyard Jungle Gym
One simple outdoor playground solution is a colored, plastic backyard jungle gym. You can find tons of these options online or at your local outdoor store. These come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. Colored, outdoor playsets can add a nice vibrant pop to your backyard space, and these structures can also bring tons of fun for your kids!
DIY Backyard Slide
Another easy DIY playground idea is a DIY backyard slide. These amazing playsets can be built within a few hours and cost barely anything! It’s also very easy to customize your setup however you wish. You can even have the backyard slide running down a small hill, or these can be built as a standalone outdoor play structure.
Large Dice
Some homeowners don’t have the ability to build large structures in their yards. In that case, you may want to get creative with some fun outdoor games. One way to achieve this is by building large dice for your children to play with. Not only can this help to stimulate their brains, but it can also be super fun!
Simple, Log-Style Structure
If you want something rustic and less noticeable, you may choose to build a simple wooden structure made out of logs. This can include a swing, wall to climb, and anything else! This method involves connecting logs vertically and horizontally to create a simple structure that can provide tons of excitement in a backyard space.
Giant Jenga Set
Although this is one of the easier outdoor play equipment ideas, building a DIY Jenga set can bring tons of excitement for the whole family! As seen in the example above, this idea is brought to life by simply cutting pieces of wood.
Outdoor Reading Nook
Want your kids to read more? If so, go ahead and build them an awesome outdoor reading nook! These can cost under $200 for all of the building materials, and you can customize these nooks however you wish! Focus on adding a nice shaded area, including comfort items like pillows and blankets.
Cornhole
Do your children love a good game of cornhole? If so, it’s super easy to bring this excitement to your own backyard! A cornhole setup can be built within an hour or two, and the results can look amazing in your backyard space.
Carriage-Style Outdoor Play Structure
This incredible carriage-style backyard playground idea can take your home to another level! This unique project can take some time to put together, but the final look can be amazing! Just like the example above, play around with different colors and try maintaining a theme.
Tire Tunnel
Have a bunch of tires lying around? If so, these can be used as exciting outdoor play equipment! All you have to do is dig a long hole, place your tires together in the dirt, and bury them right in place. You could even paint these tires to create a fun and unique DIY project!
DIY Seesaw
One of the most popular playground structures ever invented is a seesaw. Kids have been enjoying these for years, and now you can bring one to your own backyard! Just like in the picture above, you can easily build this with a big log and a few other materials.
Wooden Swing Set
While there are many DIY playground ideas, DIY swing sets are among the most popular. After all, who doesn’t love to swing? These play structures take very few materials and barely any time to put up. For a simple yet effective setup, go for something like this:
Tire Dome
Another exceptional way to use tires is to build a tire dome! This is an easy DIY project that only takes a few hours to put together, depending on how many tires you have. Kids love these play structures, and you can even paint them for an added touch.
Wooden Bridge
If you have an existing outdoor play structure or you’re thinking about building a new one, try adding a bridge! There are many DIY bridge ideas to consider, but the example above shows one of the more popular options. Kids love trying to keep their balance on these structures while hopping from one piece of wood to the next.
Outdoor DIY Kitchen
If you know children, you know they always want to be just like mom and dad. That being said, build them an outdoor kitchen that looks just like the real thing! This can be a super fun and easy backyard DIY project that can lead to awesome results.
Splash Pad
Most children love playing in water, so building an outdoor splash pad can be the perfect backyard solution! This DIY project can be as simple as lying down a concrete slab and adding some water. This will keep your kids splashing around for hours!
Vertical Climbing Rope
Do you have some young climbers in the family? If so, why not build them a vertical backyard climbing rope?! These can be thrown together within a few minutes and the fun can last all day long! These ropes can easily be added to existing outdoor structures or built as a standalone backyard feature.
Check out these Top Sellers on Amazon:
Green Climbing Rope for Kids Disc Swing
Red Climbing Rope for Kids Disc Swing
Treehouse-Style Jungle Gym
If you want something to take your outdoor playground to another level, you could design a treehouse-style jungle gym! This backyard idea should be left to the professionals, but a DIY project is possible. A treehouse jungle gym can provide fun for many years to come!
Hopscotch
Hopscotch is a classic game that’s been around forever. To get your kids active, this easy DIY playground idea can be brought to your own backyard in as little as a few minutes! This project is also a great opportunity to have your kids help out with the painting process.
Baby DIY Swing Sets
Want to build backyard playground sets for a small child? If so, a great idea is a DIY baby swing! All you need is some wood, a little bit of rope, and a few screws. This is the perfect way to get your baby to love the outdoors and have some fun!
Wooden Play Tunnel
Another fun idea is to build a wooden tunnel. These come in various shapes and sizes, and you can even build a few of them for added excitement! To add a few added features your kids will love, carve holes inside these tunnels and connect them together.
Tire Outdoor Swing Sets
Another useful way to utilize those tires you never use is to make a tire swing! These outdoor swing sets will never go out of style. They’re easy to install, are a great way to recycle old tires, and they’re extremly fun to use!
Triangle Play Structure
If you’re looking for a multi-use outdoor play area, a triangular-shaped backyard jungle gym can do the trick! Whether it’s small or massive, kids love the activities this outdoor play equipment can provide. As an added tip, try building a rock climbing wall on one of the sides!
Rope Outdoor Playsets
You probably know by now that kids love to climb. That said, another perfect outdoor playground idea is to build a rope structure! Not only is this equipment exciting for your kids, but it also helps them get stronger and work on their balance. Homeowners typically build these structures as climbing walls or bridges.
Small Wooden Playsets
Instead of building a massive, elaborate playset, sometimes the best solution is to create a few small wooden structures. These can be built within days and the results can blend well in your outdoor space.
Check out this example that shows simple structures that perfectly match the surroundings:
Swinging Ropes
Putting these swing ropes together takes some skill, but it is very possible; even if you aren’t the best builder in the world. Instructions for these DIY projects are found across the internet, making this idea even easier to execute. These ropes work great in an existing setup or as their own standalone structure.
Carousel
Kids really love carousels. Rather than going to the fair, now you can bring the magic to your own backyard! Many professional outdoor builders can easily throw together a carousel, but it can also be a simple DIY project. Try adding some pop to this outdoor play equipment by painting in some color.
DIY Pole Swing
If you’re searching for a more unconventional swing set, shoot for a pole swing! This DIY project can be put together in just a few hours, and they’ll keep your kids playing for hours on end.
Tire Wall
Another awesome way to use those tires is to build a wall! This project can easily be accomplished by simply stacking some tires, connecting them together, and attaching them to a few wooden poles for support.
DIY Wooden Boat
To let your kids’ imaginable shine, build them a wooden pirate boat! We’re not talking about a real boat, but even a simple DIY make-believe boat can provide tons of magic for your children. This DIY project can be built very quickly and the final result can look just like the real thing!
Kids Table
Now your children can really feel like grownups at this fun outdoor table! Just some wood and screws are needed for this DIY project, or hire a professional team for a polished look. This can provide the perfect area for your kids to relax, maybe while reading a book or enjoying some lunch.
Poles and Rings
To really get your kid’s brain moving, build them outdoor games with rings and poles! This can be a perfect opportunity for your children to learn and educate themselves, all while having fun in the great outdoors!
Ball Pit
Does your child absolutely love those massive ball pits at indoor playgrounds? Well now you can bring the excitement to your own backyard! All you have to do is build a pit, purchase the colored balls, and throw them in! Your children will absolutely love this outdoor play equipment, and some of the adults might jump in too!
Basketball Hoop
Tons of kids love shooting hoops. To get in on the action, a basketball hoop can be a great addition to your backyard space. To make this area even more fun, try installing a flat concrete slab for your kids to dribble and run around. This space could also be used for hopscotch, using chalk, and other fun activities!
Give Your Children the Backyard of Their Dreams!
Are you an outside-of-the-box thinker? Want to build something your kids will cherish forever? Well, now you can with any one of the ideas you see in this post! By using a little creativity, including some sweat, you can give your kids the backyard of their dreams!
About The Author
Zach Richter
Writer
Zach has a passion for the outdoors. Whether it's hiking up a steep mountain or enjoying a poolside barbecue, you can count him in. Zach is an experienced freelance writer who enjoys sharing his enthusiasm for backyard living.
By Zach Richter
Kids love time in the backyard. From summer barbecues to pool parties with friends, it may feel like your kids live in this area of the home. While having a pool, games, and other fun outdoor activities is pretty awesome for your children, nothing is more exciting than a playground.
Are you thinking of building an outdoor jungle gym? Or how about a kids outdoor fort? Whether you hire a professional team to build a playground paradise, or you try to tackle a DIY project, there are many backyard playground ideas to consider.
Keep reading as we list 35 backyard playground ideas to help you design the outdoor space your kids will love:
But first, here is a small gist of the backyard playground ideas for your kids have fun with:
- Small Rock Climbing Wall
- DIY Backyard Slide
- Giant Jenga Set
- Outdoor Reading Nook
- Tire Tunnel
- DIY Seesaw
- Vertical Climbing Rope
- Swinging Ropes
- Carousel
- And more!
Small Rock Climbing Wall
A lot of kids love rock climbing. And they’re usually really good at it too! This is a very exciting and safe sport if you do it properly. Building a small DIY backyard rock climbing wall is easy! All you need to do is build a structure made out of wood, screw in the rock holds, and you’re all set. Once you build the wall, try painting a fun art mural with your kids. This is a great way to get them involved in the building process, and they can also show off their awesome art skills!
Sailboat Sandbox
Most kids love playing in the sand. That said, a DIY sandbox project is a great backyard solution! One unique idea that looks amazing is building a sandbox that looks just like a sailboat. This outdoor play structure should be a small, rectangular shape; around 3 feet by 6 feet. Then, all you have to do is find a beach-inspired shade sail to drape over the top. Not only does the final product look incredible, but the structure also protects your kids from the harsh sun.
Plastic, Colored Backyard Jungle Gym
One simple outdoor playground solution is a colored, plastic backyard jungle gym. You can find tons of these options online or at your local outdoor store. These come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and styles. Colored, outdoor playsets can add a nice vibrant pop to your backyard space, and these structures can also bring tons of fun for your kids!
DIY Backyard Slide
Another easy DIY playground idea is a DIY backyard slide. These amazing playsets can be built within a few hours and cost barely anything! It’s also very easy to customize your setup however you wish. You can even have the backyard slide running down a small hill, or these can be built as a standalone outdoor play structure.
Large Dice
Some homeowners don’t have the ability to build large structures in their yards. In that case, you may want to get creative with some fun outdoor games. One way to achieve this is by building large dice for your children to play with. Not only can this help to stimulate their brains, but it can also be super fun!
Simple, Log-Style Structure
If you want something rustic and less noticeable, you may choose to build a simple wooden structure made out of logs. This can include a swing, wall to climb, and anything else! This method involves connecting logs vertically and horizontally to create a simple structure that can provide tons of excitement in a backyard space.
Giant Jenga Set
Although this is one of the easier outdoor play equipment ideas, building a DIY Jenga set can bring tons of excitement for the whole family! As seen in the example above, this idea is brought to life by simply cutting pieces of wood.
Outdoor Reading Nook
Want your kids to read more? If so, go ahead and build them an awesome outdoor reading nook! These can cost under $200 for all of the building materials, and you can customize these nooks however you wish! Focus on adding a nice shaded area, including comfort items like pillows and blankets.
Cornhole
Do your children love a good game of cornhole? If so, it’s super easy to bring this excitement to your own backyard! A cornhole setup can be built within an hour or two, and the results can look amazing in your backyard space.
Carriage-Style Outdoor Play Structure
This incredible carriage-style backyard playground idea can take your home to another level! This unique project can take some time to put together, but the final look can be amazing! Just like the example above, play around with different colors and try maintaining a theme.
Tire Tunnel
Have a bunch of tires lying around? If so, these can be used as exciting outdoor play equipment! All you have to do is dig a long hole, place your tires together in the dirt, and bury them right in place. You could even paint these tires to create a fun and unique DIY project!
DIY Seesaw
One of the most popular playground structures ever invented is a seesaw. Kids have been enjoying these for years, and now you can bring one to your own backyard! Just like in the picture above, you can easily build this with a big log and a few other materials.
Wooden Swing Set
While there are many DIY playground ideas, DIY swing sets are among the most popular. After all, who doesn’t love to swing? These play structures take very few materials and barely any time to put up. For a simple yet effective setup, go for something like this:
Tire Dome
Another exceptional way to use tires is to build a tire dome! This is an easy DIY project that only takes a few hours to put together, depending on how many tires you have. Kids love these play structures, and you can even paint them for an added touch.
Wooden Bridge
If you have an existing outdoor play structure or you’re thinking about building a new one, try adding a bridge! There are many DIY bridge ideas to consider, but the example above shows one of the more popular options. Kids love trying to keep their balance on these structures while hopping from one piece of wood to the next.
Outdoor DIY Kitchen
If you know children, you know they always want to be just like mom and dad. That being said, build them an outdoor kitchen that looks just like the real thing! This can be a super fun and easy backyard DIY project that can lead to awesome results.
Splash Pad
Most children love playing in water, so building an outdoor splash pad can be the perfect backyard solution! This DIY project can be as simple as lying down a concrete slab and adding some water. This will keep your kids splashing around for hours!
Vertical Climbing Rope
Do you have some young climbers in the family? If so, why not build them a vertical backyard climbing rope?! These can be thrown together within a few minutes and the fun can last all day long! These ropes can easily be added to existing outdoor structures or built as a standalone backyard feature.
Treehouse-Style Jungle Gym
If you want something to take your outdoor playground to another level, you could design a treehouse-style jungle gym! This backyard idea should be left to the professionals, but a DIY project is possible. A treehouse jungle gym can provide fun for many years to come!
Hopscotch
Hopscotch is a classic game that’s been around forever. To get your kids active, this easy DIY playground idea can be brought to your own backyard in as little as a few minutes! This project is also a great opportunity to have your kids help out with the painting process.
Baby DIY Swing Sets
Want to build backyard playground sets for a small child? If so, a great idea is a DIY baby swing! All you need is some wood, a little bit of rope, and a few screws. This is the perfect way to get your baby to love the outdoors and have some fun!
Wooden Play Tunnel
Another fun idea is to build a wooden tunnel. These come in various shapes and sizes, and you can even build a few of them for added excitement! To add a few added features your kids will love, carve holes inside these tunnels and connect them together.
Tire Outdoor Swing Sets
Another useful way to utilize those tires you never use is to make a tire swing! These outdoor swing sets will never go out of style. They’re easy to install, are a great way to recycle old tires, and they’re extremly fun to use!
Triangle Play Structure
If you’re looking for a multi-use outdoor play area, a triangular-shaped backyard jungle gym can do the trick! Whether it’s small or massive, kids love the activities this outdoor play equipment can provide. As an added tip, try building a rock climbing wall on one of the sides!
Rope Outdoor Playsets
You probably know by now that kids love to climb. That said, another perfect outdoor playground idea is to build a rope structure! Not only is this equipment exciting for your kids, but it also helps them get stronger and work on their balance. Homeowners typically build these structures as climbing walls or bridges.
Small Wooden Playsets
Instead of building a massive, elaborate playset, sometimes the best solution is to create a few small wooden structures. These can be built within days and the results can blend well in your outdoor space.
Check out this example that shows simple structures that perfectly match the surroundings:
Swinging Ropes
Putting these swing ropes together takes some skill, but it is very possible; even if you aren’t the best builder in the world. Instructions for these DIY projects are found across the internet, making this idea even easier to execute. These ropes work great in an existing setup or as their own standalone structure.
Carousel
Kids really love carousels. Rather than going to the fair, now you can bring the magic to your own backyard! Many professional outdoor builders can easily throw together a carousel, but it can also be a simple DIY project. Try adding some pop to this outdoor play equipment by painting in some color.
DIY Pole Swing
If you’re searching for a more unconventional swing set, shoot for a pole swing! This DIY project can be put together in just a few hours, and they’ll keep your kids playing for hours on end.
Tire Wall
Another awesome way to use those tires is to build a wall! This project can easily be accomplished by simply stacking some tires, connecting them together, and attaching them to a few wooden poles for support.
DIY Wooden Boat
To let your kids’ imaginable shine, build them a wooden pirate boat! We’re not talking about a real boat, but even a simple DIY make-believe boat can provide tons of magic for your children. This DIY project can be built very quickly and the final result can look just like the real thing!
Kids Table
Now your children can really feel like grownups at this fun outdoor table! Just some wood and screws are needed for this DIY project, or hire a professional team for a polished look. This can provide the perfect area for your kids to relax, maybe while reading a book or enjoying some lunch.
Poles and Rings
To really get your kid’s brain moving, build them outdoor games with rings and poles! This can be a perfect opportunity for your children to learn and educate themselves, all while having fun in the great outdoors!
Ball Pit
Does your child absolutely love those massive ball pits at indoor playgrounds? Well now you can bring the excitement to your own backyard! All you have to do is build a pit, purchase the colored balls, and throw them in! Your children will absolutely love this outdoor play equipment, and some of the adults might jump in too!
Basketball Hoop
Tons of kids love shooting hoops. To get in on the action, a basketball hoop can be a great addition to your backyard space. To make this area even more fun, try installing a flat concrete slab for your kids to dribble and run around. This space could also be used for hopscotch, using chalk, and other fun activities!
Frequently Asked Questions
With so many backyard playground options out there, you may be confused on where to start. Whether you want to hire a professional or you’re considering a DIY project, you might have a lot of questions regarding these topics.
Check out the answers to some frequently asked questions about backyard playgrounds:
How do I make my backyard into a playground?
Transforming your backyard into a playground is easy! All you have to do is add a few pieces of outdoor play equipment and you’re all set! If you want a quick fix, you could buy a pre-built backyard jungle gym that has everything your kids will need. If you want a more customized solution, go the DIY approach. Any of the ideas above can instantly create amazing backyard playgrounds!
How do I make my yard child-friendly?
Many backyards provide tons of room for kids to run and play, but some of them aren’t kid-friendly. Here are some ways you can make your outdoor space ready for children:
- Never leave out power tools, scissors, or any other unsafe items
- Build a fence around your pool
- Don’t grow anything with dangerous leaves or thorns
- Install child-safe protectors on power outlets
- Never build anything that has a high-risk of injury
- Encourage kids to never shove or push
- Remind kids to stay safe on playground equipment
- Limit outdoor items that can be choking hazards
Are backyard playsets worth it?
If your kids love being outside, then a backyard playset is 100% worth it! Not only do playsets encourage children to explore the great outdoors, but they also keep kids fit and healthy. And if you’re worried about the cost of this outdoor play equipment, these solutions are extremely affordable — especially if you go for a DIY option. Even if your kids don’t play in the backyard often, adding some cool outdoor play equipment can get them out there!
How do you make an outdoor space fun for kids?
While you may have an outdoor space for kids to play, it may not be the most enjoyable. In fact, if you built a playset 10 years ago, kids today may think it’s boring. To create a vibrant, fun environment for children to have the time of their lives, add some classic playground equipment. Shoot for swing sets, jungle gyms, and maybe something modern and unique! Adding various options can keep their minds moving and help them maintain a high level of excitement!
Are backyard playgrounds expensive?
Many homeowners want to build a backyard playground but think it’s way too costly. But with the multitude of DIY ideas available today, building a child’s backyard paradise is now easier and more cost-effective than ever! Even if you’re on a super tight budget, adding some type of outdoor play equipment is very achievable for pennies on the dollar.
Give Your Children the Backyard of Their Dreams!
Are you an outside-of-the-box thinker? Want to build something your kids will cherish forever? Well now you can with any one of the ideas you see in this post! By using a little creativity, inlcuding some sweat, you can give your kids the backyard of their dreams!