Playing outdoor games as a family is a great way to spend quality family time together. Many outdoor games also provide you with an opportunity to get some healthy exercise, in addition to simply having fun. If you love outdoor family activities but you could use some new ideas, here are some traditional fun outdoor games kids will love. These group games would be perfect for birthday parties outdoors. These children’s DIY outdoor game ideas are also perfect for every day use. In this article, we will dive into a world of outdoor games that will banish boredom and ignite the spirit for fun. These games for kids of all ages are not only bound to keep you on your toes but will also create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
A Big List of Exciting Outdoor Games For Kids
Get ready to showcase your competitive side with these thrilling outdoor games. Whether you’re into team sports or individual challenges, these games will provide endless hours of entertainment and friendly competition. But that is not all. Fun out door games are good for you too. From burning calories to reducing stress, outdoor games offer a fun and effective way to boost your health. Outdoor games are a fantastic way to keep kids active, engaged, and having fun outdoors. Here are some classic and popular outdoor games for kids:
Scavenger Hunt
Although scavenger hunts are certainly not new, you can add some new twists to the game to make it even more fun. Pre-planning is the key to a successful family scavenger hunt. To make things more challenging and fun, let everyone participate in the planning process. Instead of relying on one family member to hide all the items and prepare all the clues, let everyone participate in the process. Decide on the number of items to hide as well as how many clues will be provided. Then, have each family member hide the items and prepare the clues for another family member. On the day of the scavenger hunt, exchange clue sheets and let the fun begin. Alternately, you could simply take turns as the “scavenger hunt planning committee,” with a different family member planning the entire hunt each week. Planning a scavenger hunt is a great way to encourage your child’s creative thinking processes while also having fun together as a family.
Mystery Detective
Once everyone in your family has become accustomed to planning a scavenger hunt, try taking the basic concept to a whole new level. Instead of providing the clues needed to find the hidden objects, you’ll prepare detective clues instead. This game is usually best planned by one adult, especially if there are younger children. Think up a mystery then write a collection of clues on small pieces of paper. The clues should all lead up to being able to solve the mystery. For example, you could plan the “Mystery of the Missing Tomatoes.” Provide each player with clues to help them solve the mystery. Each clue should provide enough information to allow the player to find the next clue. After everyone has found all their clues, see who is able to solve the mystery. If you like the idea but don’t want to have to make your own game, you can always just download a kids detective mystery game.
Relay Race Physical Challenge
If you’re looking for a fun game that will provide everyone with plenty of exercise, a relay race physical challenge can be the perfect choice. Children in particular often love this game, especially if they enjoy watching physical challenge television shows. Set up several activity challenge stations around the yard. For example, you could design a jump rope challenge, a swing set challenge, a hula hoop challenge, and a “jumping jack” challenge. You’ll also need a stopwatch so that you can time how long it takes each family member to complete the challenge course. The person who completes all the activities in the least amount of time wins the physical challenge. You could also record the time it takes for everyone to complete each individual challenge, in addition to their total time. Because this method results in more individual winners, it can be a lot more fun.
Ultimate Frisbee: Flying Disc Fun for Everyone
Another thrilling outdoor game that will get your heart racing and your blood pumping is Ultimate Frisbee. Combining the best aspects of football and Frisbee, this high-energy game is perfect for those seeking an exciting challenge. Imagine running across a grassy field, the wind rushing through your hair as you skillfully maneuver the flying disc towards your teammates. With every throw and catch, experience a sense of exhilaration and accomplishment.
Ultimate Frisbee is not just a game of physical prowess; it also requires strategic thinking and teamwork. You and your teammates must work together, communicating and coordinating your moves to outsmart the opposing team and score points. The thrill of a perfectly timed throw or an incredible diving catch is unmatched, and the camaraderie developed through shared victories and defeats creates lasting memories.
Whether you’re a seasoned Ultimate Frisbee player or a beginner looking for a fun new challenge, this game has something to offer everyone. The rules are simple to learn, allowing players of all skill levels to participate and enjoy the excitement. So, gather your friends, grab a Frisbee, and prepare to soar to new heights of outdoor adventure.
Follow The Leader
Kids love following and leading and this game gives each child a chance to be in charge. What they do and say matters and the other kids all copy them. Naturally, they love that! Tell each child to create an imaginary path through, around, over, and under things in your yard and lead the others for 1 minute then rotate to a new leader. Follow the leader is a classic outdoor game that is especially great for younger children.
Sack Race
A sack race is one of the most traditional fun outdoor group games for kids. You can use old pillow cases for sacks and have the kids do a straight out sack race or a relay sack race. Kids must jump their way to the finish point. This fun outdoor game is just as fun for the observers as it is the participants because it is so funny to watch!
Water Games
Water Balloon War is the perfect game to beat the summer heat. As the temperatures rise, gather your friends, armed with buckets of water balloons, and prepare for an exhilarating clash. Whether you’re at a park, a backyard, or a beach, this game can be played anywhere that allows for a bit of open space. There are lots of outdoor water games you can play to get the kids having fun. From water balloons to games with cups of water, there are endless possibilities. See the link above for water game ideas and details. Also on this subject, here is my affiliate link to the coolest reusable water balloons. I think they are super cool because they are better for the environment, easy to fill, and so fun! You get them on the SOPPYCID website or order them through my Amazon affiliate link.
Sidewalk Chalk Games
From coloring to hopscotch there are many simple games to play with chalk. You can also draw out board games or create your own games with chalk. You can even make a tic tac toe sidewalk game with foam sheets and duct tape.
Capture the Flag: A Classic Game with a Twist
When it comes to classic outdoor games, Capture the Flag stands out as a timeless favorite for older kids (usually middle school and teenagers). This thrilling game combines elements of strategy, teamwork, and stealth to create an unforgettable experience. But what sets this game apart from other outdoor activities is the element of surprise that keeps players on their toes.
In traditional Capture the Flag, two teams compete to capture each other’s flags while defending their own. The goal is simple: sneak into the enemy territory, snatch their flag, and bring it back to your own base without getting caught. However, with a twist, this game can become even more exciting and challenging.
One popular variation is Glow-in-the-Dark Capture the Flag. Imagine the thrill of running through the darkness, armed with a glowstick, trying to outsmart your opponent. The glowsticks not only add a visual element but also make it easier to spot your teammates and strategize in the dark. This twist on the classic game takes it to a whole new level of adventure and excitement.
Another twist on Capture the Flag is incorporating additional obstacles or challenges. For example, you could designate specific zones on the playing field where players must complete a physical or mental challenge before they can proceed. This is a great way to make it even more fun for teens and adults.
One of the best things about Capture the Flag is its versatility. Whether it’s a backyard, a park, or even a campground, Capture the Flag can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. As the sun sets and the excitement builds, get ready for an evening filled with laughter, camaraderie, and epic flag captures.
Outdoor Chess: Combining Strategy and Sunshine
Outdoor Chess takes the beloved game of chess and adds a whole new dimension to it. As you sit in a serene garden or a park surrounded by nature, you’ll feel a refreshing sense of tranquility mixed with the exhilaration of outsmarting your opponent. The click of the chess pieces hitting the board echoes through the air, a symphony of strategy playing out under the open sky.
Unlike traditional indoor chess, the outdoor version offers an added element of physicality. As you ponder your next move, you might find yourself reaching for your water bottle or stretching your legs under the sun’s warmth. The outdoor environment provides not only mental stimulation but also a chance to soak in the beauty of nature while engaging your mind.
Traditional Games
And there there are always the time honored classic backyard games:
- Tag: A timeless favorite where one player is “it” and tries to tag other players, who then become “it.”
- Hide and Seek: One person closes their eyes and counts while the others hide. The seeker then tries to find everyone.
- Red Light, Green Light: One player is the “traffic light” and calls out “red light” to stop and “green light” to go. Players must freeze when “red light” is called.
- Duck, Duck, Goose: Children sit in a circle while one player walks around tapping each on the head, saying “duck” until they choose someone as “goose.” The goose then chases the tapper around the circle trying to tag them before they take their seat.
- Simon Says: One player is “Simon” and gives commands to the other players. Commands must be followed only if they begin with “Simon says.”
Outdoor Group Games List Conclusion
These games are not only fun but also promote physical activity, teamwork, and creativity while enjoying the outdoors. There is something truly special about being outside, soaking up the sunshine, and immersing yourself in fun-filled adventures. Outdoor games not only engage your body but also stimulate your mind, allowing you to unleash your creativity and strategic thinking. Whether you’re chasing after water balloons, strategizing your next move in chess, or exploring the thrill of capture the flag, the outdoor world becomes your playground.
As you step outside and dive into these exciting games, you’ll discover that they offer more than just entertainment. They foster connections with family and friends, creating lasting memories that you’ll cherish for years to come. The laughter, friendly competition, and shared experiences bond people together, strengthening relationships and building a sense of community. It’s a chance to escape the monotony of daily life and immerse yourself in the present moment.
There are so many outside games for kids to play. Sometimes they just need a few ideas to get them started. The time to start playing is now. Find your favorite outdoor game, gather your loved ones, and venture into the great outdoors. Feel the rush of adrenaline as you compete, strategize, and laugh together. I hope you enjoy these ideas for fun outdoor games kids will love. What are their favorite outdoor group games for kids? Which of these new ideas for fun outdoor games do you think they will like the best?
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Coast says
Very cool list of outside games for kids. I think I would also like to play these outdoor group games with my kids. For younger kids I would add to the list Red Light Green Light and Red Rover. These outdoor games will be great for the neighborhood kids. Thanks for sharing so many childhood favorites.
Alan says
Thanks for the information on outdoor games for kids. I love all the fun variations of these games to play outside.
Jack says
This tips are very useful for my kids because they always spend too much time on mobile phone. I think this outdoor games list can help them to change and be more active. Thanks for sharing.
Rex says
This was so nice. I like your ideas and these fun outdoor games for kids will help to stop kids spending so much time with gadgets.
Thanks for this useful blog on fun games to play outside.
starlit says
Nice list of outdoor games. Feeling great after reading your blog. The way you enjoy your family time and keep time for kids is awesome. Best of luck for all time.
George Nixon says
What a great list of kid games to play outside. Camping with kids can also be a rewarding and memorable experience for the whole family. It allows you to bond with your children.