I’m on a mission to parent a little more like it’s the ’90s. Where summer meant being outside all day, riding bikes until your legs gave out, and only heading home when someone yelled your name from the front porch at dinnertime. No packed schedules, no constant screen time, just long, carefree days spent outdoors. And while times have changed, I still want to recreate a bit of that magic for my kids. That’s where the right kids outdoor toys come in. They help keep them outside, busy, and happy.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know before shopping, so you can choose the best outdoor toys for kids that keep them engaged, active, and coming back for more—all summer long.
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How we chose the best kids outdoor toys
We chose the best outdoor toys with one goal in mind: getting kids outside and keeping them there longer. That meant focusing on toys that are durable, easy to use, and actually fun enough to compete with screens. We looked for pieces that encourage movement, spark imagination, and work for a range of ages, so siblings and friends can play together without constant setup or supervision. The result is a mix of tried-and-true favorites and versatile picks that make outdoor time feel effortless, active, and exciting.
More things to consider when shopping for outdoor toys for kids:
- Age Appropriateness: Always check recommended age ranges to ensure safety and usability. Toys that are too advanced can lead to frustration, while overly simple ones may lose appeal quickly.
- Space Considerations: Think about where the toy will live. Measure your outdoor area and consider storage when the toy isn’t in use.
- Durability and Weather Resistance: Outdoor toys should be able to withstand sun exposure, moisture, and regular wear and tear. Look for high-quality plastics, treated wood, or rust-resistant metals.
- Ease of Setup: If it takes an hour to assemble every time, it’s probably not going to get used often. Opt for toys that are quick to set up and easy to maintain.
- Longevity: Choose toys that can grow with your child or be used in multiple ways to get the most value over time.
The best outdoor kids toys
From simple classics to more interactive setups, these toys turn any outdoor space into a place kids actually want to be all day long.
Active play toys
These outdoor toys are designed to get kids moving and are perfect for high-energy play.
Is American Ninja Warrior a family favorite late-night watch in your household? This backyard obstacle course will make your kiddos feel like they’re on the show, and get them moving in the summertime!
3 sizes available
This swing comes with ropes and latches that make it easy to attach to other playground equipment you may already have. For long summer nights spent with family, your kiddos will love this.
3 colors available
For the little ones who love to climb trees, these holds make it a fun and safe experience, offering parents some more peace of mind. They also hold up to 230 pounds, so they’re fun for adults and kids!
4 color sets available
For your little athlete, this goal set will be an excellent tool to get them outside and moving while introducing them to a sport they could grow to love! It can also easily be used indoors for rainy days.
Having a durable and reliable outdoor play set is a must with little ones. This one includes a slide, rock climbing wall, and swings!
2 colors available
The best part about this mat? It comes with an electronic air pump, making set up easy as can be. For your budding gymnast or dancer, this is a must have.
14 colors available
This board will make your kiddos feel like they’re riding the waves even when they’re on solid ground. They can ride it to school, take it to the skate park, and more.
This set of four skateboarding ramps is connected by several slopes and a large tabletop connector. It’s safe, fun, and just what your kiddos need to get moving this summer!
Another staple for kids who love to be outside, this 44-inch basketball hoop has a shatter-proof backboard and 11 levels of height adjustment.
2 colors available
Suitable for beginners and little pros, this rebounder net will turn your backyard area into a training arena. Set up takes minutes and the pay off—especially for kids training for travel sports or teams—is huge.
4 sizes available
This is a great toy for kids who love to jump rope, but with a twist! Just turn on the switch and the wheel will light up. Then, jump over the skip ball with one foot, and the other foot follows the rhythm to jump continuously.
5 colors available
A classic for a reason! This game works for a wide range of ages and is a great way to keep kids busy and engaged on long summer days.
8 colors available
This all-in-one climbing set, sandbox, and play tent will keep children entertained for hours on end. They’ll love using it to play with their friends and lounge around on a hot afternoon.
Toys for creative and imaginative play
These toys encourage kids to build, pretend, and explore their creativity outdoors.
This set includes a child-sized wheelbarrow, watering can, gloves, a washable apron, and more. For your little one with a green thumb, this is a must-have.
Play kitchens are household staples, and this one is built for imaginative play out in nature, with areas for cooking, water play, and more.
If you have a kiddo who loves to stare out the window while your lawn is getting mowed, this is the toy for them. Fill the inside with bubbles, sit back, and watch them have a blast!
The rainfall effect on this water table will make your little ones feel like they have a mini water park right in their backyard. Buckets and spinning wheels make it great for interactive play!
This set includes two lightweight bats, one real pickleball, and an adjustable pole for fast-paced rallies anywhere. Even little kids will love to play with this one!
2 colors available
This toy offers your toddler the chance to experience a mini amusement park right in your home! Climbing the steps and boarding the car will help develop coordination skills while making for a fun and active play experience.
2 colors available
Already sewing your kids’ pirate Halloween costumes? Make sure to grab this pirate ship sandbox for your backyard space this summer. Its large interior offers your kiddos plenty of space to explore their imaginations together.
This play grill is outfitted with all the details of the real thing: a hinged lid, grates, side play burner, side table, pretend propane tank, and more! For the little cook in the family, this is perfect.
Water play favorites
Perfect for warmer weather, water-based toys bring a whole new level of excitement to outdoor play.
Whether you’re planning a summer birthday party or are just in need of a fun weekend activity for your family, this inflatable water slide has got you covered. Your kiddos will be obsessed.
This exciting summer toy offers four fun ways to play: single-hole water spray for baseball practice, three-hole spray nozzle for hitting up to three balls at once, 360° rotating sprinkler for wide-range water play, and six reusable water balls for backyard battles and pool fun!
Reusable and washable, your kids will love these colorful water balloons for a little bit of friendly summer fun (or competition).
2 sizes available
Planning on throwing lots of pool parties this summer? You won’t want to go without a water-friendly basketball hoop. They’re great for getting kids and adults involved in the fun!
This inflatable set encourages interactive water play with friends and siblings! With two water slides, a climbing wall, and splash pools, none of your little ones will get bored.
Do you have kids who love to run through sprinklers on a hot day? Elevate their experience with this giant inflatable sprinkler, which also happens to be a dinosaur—a bonus, in our books.
2 colors available
Perfect for kids and pets, this splash pad offers the ideal way to cool off on a hot summer day. Plus, it’s slip-proof, making it safe and fun.
3 colors available
Backyard games & group activities
Ideal for siblings, play dates, or family time, these backyard games and toys bring everyone together.
This was a classic childhood birthday party game I would have loved to have in my own backyard as a kid. Your little ones can safely roughhouse with one another using these inflatable suits.
Designed by aeronautical engineers, your kids will love the chance to launch these rockets in their own backyard—especially after all the Artemis mission excitement!
Get your kids excited about a classic game in a new format. They’ll love how hands-on and interactive this is, especially those kiddos who are especially rambunctious.
2 sizes available
This is a safe and exciting version of a game that would otherwise be off limits to little ones. It’s built to withstand continued use and can be used indoors or outdoors!
2 colors available
Spikeball may be my favorite outdoor lawn game, and the great thing about this set is that it’s portable and easy to set up. Whether you’re in your backyard or on-the-go, this set can come with you and your family.
Bring the arcade into your home with this set of four laser tag blasters. They’re colorful, rechargeable, and excellent entertainment for all your kiddos—even on rainy days.
4 colors available
This set includes everything your family will need for some friendly competition: two targets with score trackers, six rubber bolos, carrying case, and the rules. It’s a perfect game for birthday parties, summer dinners, and more.
Kids and adults will love to try their hand at this classic bean bag toss game! Plus, the wood finish on this set is stunning.
12 colors and sizes available
This bounce house combines a high slide, climbing wall, ball pit, basketball hoop, throwing net, and target practice into one play set! It’s the kind of one-stop purchase that will keep your kids busy for years to come.
A backyard childhood classic that transcends age groups entirely! Whether you have a toddler or a teenager, they’ll love having a trampoline to enjoy with their friends and family. There’s even lights around the edges on this one!
Got a budding golfer in the family? Or a husband who spends more time on the green than off? This practice net will be widely used by kids and adults alike!
Outdoor toys for kids FAQs
1. How do I keep outdoor toys in good condition?
Store them in a covered area when not in use and clean them regularly to prevent wear from weather exposure.
2. Are expensive outdoor toys worth it?
Not always. Focus on durability, versatility, and how often the toy will actually be used rather than price alone.
3. How many outdoor toys do kids really need?
Less is often more. A curated selection of high-quality toys tends to keep kids more engaged than an overwhelming number of options.
Why You Can Count On Us
The Everygirl Media Group has brought valuable content to our readers for 12+ years. In 2018, The Everymom set out to ensure that all moms know they’re not alone. If you find yourself seeking advice on how to style the latest fashion trend or searching for the best kid-friendly coffee table, we have the answers. And if you’re wondering what’s actually worth it from a sale or looking for a review of the hottest new kids’ product, we’ve got that covered too. From our annual Registry Awards and beloved holiday gift guides to the shopping round-ups you find on our site every day, The Everymom commerce team is well-versed in sifting through thousands of products to curate a digestible list for you. We combine our own experience with in-depth research to bring you a selection that meets our high standards for both fashion and function.
Alina Orozco, Commerce Editor
Alina Orozco is the Commerce Editor at The Everymom, where she combines her editorial experience with a love for finding products that make everyday life easier and more stylish. To The Everymom, Alina brings over 10+ years of editorial publishing and digital storytelling experience, as well as snippets of her real-life mom style, making fashion trends accessible and fun for every mom. She now lives in a cozy beach town in Southern California with her husband and their two boys, but she’ll always be a Philly girl at heart.
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