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All American Yard Games that Can Travel

by Meghan Klave Filed Under: things to do

We were inspired recently by a large family reunion that stayed with us. The entire resort was full. Every cabin, motel room, our boats, motors and kayaks were put to use. Kids galore with their smiling faces and adults that were happy to play along. What we found so fascinating were some of the really cool DIY yard games they brought with them.

Entertainment and a lifetime of memories that every age could be involved in, that’s a summer vacation!

The Best All-American Yard Games

family friendly yard games

This post contains affiliate links. This means that if you click through and make a purchase, The Twin Cedars may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you…we appreciate your support. Full disclosure here.

Many of these yard games can be DIY for the budget conscience family or check out our, for purchase, links.

All of these fantastic family yard games are good for a stay-cation or easy to bring along on your next camping or cabin retreat.

Yard Games Pick #1 – Corn hole

diy-corn-hole-boards

You can’t get anymore “all-American” than this DIY Corn Hole version from – Alayna’s Creations

Not ready to bust out the power tools, sander and stain? Go Here! *Great tip from my sister-in-law (these are usually from experience…as this one is) – do not keep your corn filled bags in an area that mice or other rodents can get them. Winter months are especially prone to these pesky buggers getting into things and you may find several stashes or 2 around your garage.

Yard Games Pick #2 – Washers

This is certainly Bob’s pick! He’s been known to rig lights up to be able to play in the dark. Our grass by the lake probably has a permanent square imprint from our worn out wooden boxes.

DIY washers game from Making Mrs M

See this easy-to-follow DIY Washers Game Box tutorial from – Making Mrs M. See these for great purchase options.

Yard Games Pick #3 – Jenga

DIY lifesize jenga from Lemon Thistle

DIY Version from – Lemon Thistle and for some awesome options that you won’t need your chop saw for GO HERE!

Although this may not be an easy transport, depending upon your mode of transportation, I’m thinking of recruiting Bob for this DIY so we can have one right here at the resort. How cool! I’ve played this once at a Halloween party and it was great! You can have many players and it gets you up and moving. People go crazy for this one!

Yard Games Pick #4 – Ladder Ball

Pretty light weight but can be bulky if you don’t have a collapsible set.

DIY-Ladder-Golf-Game-from Twin Dragonfly Designs

Get the DIY tutorial from – Twin Dragonfly Designs

As promised here is your link to some great affordable (and collapsible) options!

Yard Games Pick #5 – Candyland

I’ve always loved playing this game as a kid. I’d imagine that I was really in a world of candy, hopping around like an oompa-loompa at the Chocolate Factory.

CANDYLAND on Pinterest

*Disclosure I could not find a website attached to this photo – so instead I will link to the image on Pinterest. And you can find awesome instructions and DIY tips here.

Get all the items needed to make this fun yard game:

  • Colored construction paper
  • Balloon kit
  • Life-size lollipops
  • Candyland cutouts

Yard Games Pick #6 – Flashlight Tag

Because it takes nearly nothing and is super fun for all ages.

Get the easy instructions from – Premeditated Leftovers

Of course you need flashlights for this game, which should be on your packing list!

Keep up with all our latest shenanigans by following along on Facebook!


Related posts:

Morel Mushroom Hunting, 10 tips you may not know

5 Things you must do before summer ends

5 Cabin Getaway Essentials you didn’t think of

Fisherman Approved Kayak Upgrades

Comments

  1. Joe E. Gibson says

    at

    These yard games are sooo amazing!!! Adults and children do need to play together with these games! It helps to create a closer connection! This is perfect for a family weekend!

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Bob & Meghan, husband and wife team as 2nd generation owners of Twin Cedars Resort in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula, Trout Lake. There's lots to explore under 'things to do.' Family friendly or grown-ups only outdoor adventuring! Glimpse our fascinating wildlife and go behind the scenes around the resort. We hope you enjoy our view! Keep reading...

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