3 DIY Backyard Games From Household Items

You can create three exciting backyard games using everyday household items. Transform ten plastic soda bottles into a bowling alley by filling them with sand or rice for stability. Cut out the centers of paper plates to make rings, then toss them onto cardboard tubes for a ring toss challenge. Fill old pillowcase scraps with dried beans and throw them at holes cut into a decorated cardboard box. Each game offers simple setup instructions and customization tips below.

Bottle Bowling Alley With Recycled Plastic Containers

Transform your empty plastic bottles into a fun bowling alley that’ll keep the whole family entertained for hours. Collect ten clean bottles of similar size—two-liter soda bottles work perfectly. Add sand, rice, or water to each bottle for stability, adjusting the weight based on your players’ ages.

Set up your pins in a traditional triangle formation on flat grass or a paved surface. Mark a throwing line about fifteen feet away using chalk or tape. Grab any medium-sized ball you have on hand—a soccer ball, basketball, or rubber playground ball works great.

You can customize your bottles with spray paint or colored tape to create team colors. Keep score on a whiteboard, and rotate throwers to maintain excitement throughout your backyard tournament.

Ring Toss Challenge Using Paper Plates and Cardboard Tubes

Whip up an exciting ring toss game using materials you already have in your recycling bin. Cut the centers out of paper plates to create rings, then decorate them with markers or paint for easy scoring identification.

Stand cardboard tubes upright by attaching them to a sturdy base made from flattened cardboard boxes.

Here’s how to set up your challenge:

1. Secure 5-7 tubes at varying heights using hot glue or tape on your cardboard base
2. Assign point values to each tube based on difficulty
3. Mark a throwing line with tape at an appropriate distance for players

You’ll find this game works perfectly for all ages. Simply adjust the throwing distance to increase or decrease difficulty, keeping everyone entertained for hours.

Bean Bag Target Game From Old Pillowcases and Cardboard Boxes

Create a simple yet entertaining bean bag target game by repurposing old pillowcases and cardboard boxes you’ve got lying around.

Fill small pillowcase sections with dried beans or rice, then sew or tie them shut to form sturdy bean bags.

Transform old pillowcases into tossable fun by filling sections with beans or rice and securing them tightly.

For the target board, flatten a large cardboard box and cut three to five holes of varying sizes.

Assign point values to each hole—smaller openings earn higher scores.

Paint or decorate the board with bright colors to make it visually appealing.

Prop your target against a fence or lean it at an angle using additional cardboard supports.

Mark a throwing line with tape or chalk, and you’re ready to play.

This game works perfectly for all ages and keeps everyone active outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Make These Games Waterproof for Outdoor Play in Rainy Weather?

You can waterproof your games by applying clear polyurethane sealant, using outdoor spray paint, or covering wooden pieces with marine varnish. You’ll also want to store them under tarps when you’re not playing.

What Age Groups Are These DIY Backyard Games Most Suitable For?

You’ll find most DIY backyard games work best for kids aged 4-12, though you can easily adjust difficulty levels. Simpler versions suit toddlers, while you can add challenging rules to engage teenagers and adults.

How Do I Store These Homemade Games During Winter Months?

You’ll want to store your homemade games in a dry garage, basement, or storage bin. Clean them first, let everything dry completely, and use labeled containers to keep pieces organized until spring arrives.

Can These Games Be Adapted for Children With Physical Disabilities?

You can absolutely adapt these games for children with physical disabilities. You’ll want to lower targets, widen playing areas, add tactile elements, use lighter materials, and create seated versions to guarantee everyone joins the fun.

What Scoring Systems Work Best for Organizing Tournaments With These Games?

You’ll find round-robin formats work best, letting everyone play multiple times. Use simple point systems—first to 10 or best of three rounds. Track scores on a whiteboard and create bracket charts for elimination rounds.