Fun Summer Backyard Activity Ideas For Kids
If you are looking for some fun things to do in the backyard this summer, I’ve got a fun free printable list of activity ideas for you today!

Why use the backyard for summer fun?
The backyard is the perfect place to get some fresh air and explore in a safe space. From playing games like tag or hide-and-seek, to building sandcastles or having BBQs with friends and family, there are countless ways to make summer memories in your own yard! Plus, it’s always great to get outside and enjoy the sunshine and nature.
Here are some fun activities to help kids make the most out of your backyard this summer:
1. Create a scavenger hunt – Hide small objects around your yard or neighborhood and have friends or family members search for them, or try something like geocaching!
2. Set up an outdoor theater – Gather up some blankets, pillows, and cushions to create your own “theater” outside. Then, pick out a movie or TV show to watch together!
3. Set up a putting green – Get creative and make your own mini golf course with some cardboard or foam pieces, or buy a few mini-golf sets from the store.

4. Have an outdoor BBQ – Fire up the grill and have friends over for dinner! Add some fun games to your party like cornhole, horseshoes, or bocce ball.
5. Build a campfire – Have some fun around the fire with s’mores, storytelling and songs!
6. Go camping in your backyard – Pitch a tent in your yard and pretend you’re out in nature! Get creative by setting up an obstacle course, creating a treasure hunt or playing flashlight tag.
7. Plant a garden – Get the kids involved in planting and growing their own vegetables or flowers. Add some bird feeders to your yard and watch the birds come!
8. Paint rocks – Gather up some plain stones from around your yard and turn them into works of art.
9. Have a water balloon fight – Fill up some balloons with water and have a battle! Make sure to leave some space for running around, too.
10. Star gaze – Grab a blanket and look up at the stars together to spot constellations and planets!
These are just a few ideas of how to make the most out of your backyard this summer. What activities do you usually do in the summertime? Let us know in the comments!

Bonus Content: Here are some other fun backyard activity ideas to try out:
• Have an art show – Set up a spot in the yard where your kids can show off their masterpieces!
• Put on a play – Get creative and have your kids perform a favorite movie or book.
• Create an outdoor game room – Set up some fun games like Jenga, Twister, or bowling with plastic bottles and balls.
• Have a picnic – Spread out a blanket and set up all the treats and goodies for a picnic in your very own backyard.
• Build an outdoor fort – Grab some blankets or sheets and build a cozy spot to hang out in.
• Play ground freeze tag – Get everyone running around with this classic game!
• Have a water day – Set up a sprinkler, blow up some water balloons, or get a pool for some cool relief this summer.

• Go on a nature walk – Take a stroll around your backyard and look for bugs and animals. Make sure to bring an empty jar or container to collect treasures!
• Have an outdoor movie night – Set up the laptop or TV outdoors and play a movie with some popcorn and snacks.
• Bird watch – Hang up a bird feeder and keep an eye out for feathered friends.
• Play tag – A classic game that the whole family can enjoy!
• Play catch – Grab your favorite ball, frisbee, or even paddleball set and have some fun.
• Construct an obstacle course – Use items from around the house to create a challenging obstacle course for everyone to try!
• Have a sprinkler dance party – Turn up the music, turn on the sprinklers, and get ready to dance!
For some more fun Summer Backyard Activities be sure to download this Free Printable!
If you are looking for more fun Free Printables for the summer check out these posts below!
- 33 No Spend Summer Activities – Free Printable Checklist
- Summer Schedule Activities For Kids – Free Printable
- 36 Fun Family Summer Activities To Keep You Busy (Free Checklist)
- Kids Daily Summer Checklist (Free Printable)
- How To Create Your Own At Home Summer Camp (Free Printable)
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Hi! I’m Nellie. I am an entrepreneur, a busy mama of 3 and a wife to my high school sweetheart. I have been sharing content for over 12 years about how to cook easy recipes, workout tips and free printables that make life a little bit easier. I have been featured in places like Yahoo, Buzzfeed, What To Expect, Mediavine, Niche Pursuits, HuffPost, BabyCenter, Mom 2.0, Mommy Nearest, Parade, Care.com, and more!
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