Cornhole vs. Other Backyard Games: Which Outdoor Game Is Best?
Cornhole vs. Other Backyard Games: Which Outdoor Game Is Best?
Nothing brings friends and family together quite like a little friendly competition in the backyard.
Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue, planning a family reunion, tailgating before the big game, or just enjoying a sunny afternoon, outdoor games are a great way to get everyone involved.
But with so many backyard games to choose from, which one is right for your next gathering?
Cornhole, bocce ball, horseshoes, ladder toss, and Spikeball are all popular choices, but each offers a different experience. Some are perfect for laid-back socializing, while others are better suited for energetic competition.
In this guide, we'll compare five popular outdoor games based on gameplay, skill level, physical activity, portability, and family friendliness to help you find the best fit.
1. Cornhole: The Backyard Favorite
Cornhole, sometimes called bean bag toss or baggo, is one of America's most recognizable backyard games.
Players take turns tossing fabric bags toward an angled board with a hole near the top. Bags that stay on the board typically earn one point, while bags that go through the hole earn three points.
Games are commonly played to 21 points using cancellation scoring, in which only the difference between opponents' round totals is added to the score.
Cornhole can be played individually or in teams of two, making it a versatile option for different group sizes.
Why People Love Cornhole
Easy to learn: Most beginners can understand the basic rules in just a few minutes.
Great for socializing: Players can talk, laugh, and enjoy time together between throws.
Suitable for different ages: Throwing distances and equipment can be adjusted for younger players and beginners.
Fun at every skill level: Casual players can enjoy backyard games, while experienced competitors can practice advanced shots and strategies.
Highly customizable: Boards and bags are available in countless colors, designs, and themes.
Best Occasions for Cornhole
Backyard barbecues and family gatherings
Tailgating parties
Breweries and outdoor patios
Weddings and corporate events
Neighborhood competitions
Casual afternoons with friends
Are There Any Downsides?
Full-size regulation cornhole boards take up storage space and can be relatively heavy, although smaller and more portable sets are available.
You'll also need a reasonably clear throwing area for safe gameplay.
Our take: Cornhole is an excellent all-around backyard game for groups that want a balance of friendly competition, easy gameplay, and social interaction.
2. Bocce Ball: Relaxed Strategy and Friendly Competition
Bocce ball is a traditional Italian game that combines accuracy, strategy, and friendly competition.
Players roll or toss larger balls toward a smaller target ball called the pallino.
The goal is to position your team's balls closer to the pallino than your opponents' balls.
Depending on the rules and playing surface, players may also knock opposing balls out of position.
Why People Love Bocce Ball
Simple gameplay: The basic objective is easy to understand.
Strategic competition: Players must consider positioning, angles, and how to move opponents' balls.
Relaxed pace: Bocce allows plenty of time for conversation between turns.
Flexible playing options: Recreational bocce can be played on grass or other suitable surfaces, although dedicated courts provide a more consistent experience.
Best Occasions for Bocce Ball
Family gatherings
Backyard parties
Picnics and park outings
Relaxed adult get-togethers
Outdoor social events
Are There Any Downsides?
Bocce balls can be heavy, and the playing surface can significantly affect gameplay.
A rough or uneven lawn may make accurate rolling difficult.
Our take: Bocce ball is an excellent alternative to cornhole for groups that enjoy relaxed, strategic games with minimal physical exertion.
3. Horseshoes: Traditional Backyard Competition
Horseshoes has been a familiar outdoor game for generations.
Players toss horseshoes toward a metal stake, attempting to land a ringer around the stake or position their horseshoe closer than their opponent's.
It's a game that rewards accuracy, consistency, and throwing control.
Why People Love Horseshoes
Classic backyard appeal: Horseshoes has a traditional feel that many players enjoy.
Friendly competition: Players can compete casually or follow more formal scoring rules.
Durable equipment: Quality horseshoe sets can last for years with proper care.
Best Occasions for Horseshoes
Backyard cookouts
Family reunions
Outdoor recreation areas
Traditional lawn-game competitions
Are There Any Downsides?
Horseshoes generally require a suitable playing area with securely installed stakes.
Metal horseshoes are also relatively heavy and require additional safety precautions, especially when children or spectators are nearby.
Our take: Horseshoes is a great choice for players who enjoy traditional skill games and have a dedicated outdoor playing area.
4. Ladder Toss: Easygoing Fun for Parties
Ladder toss, also called ladder golf, is another popular outdoor game that's easy to introduce at parties.
Players toss bolas, which consist of two weighted balls connected by a cord, toward a ladder-shaped target with three horizontal rungs.
Points are awarded when a bola wraps around a rung, with different rungs typically carrying different point values.
Why People Love Ladder Toss
Beginner friendly: The basic throwing concept is easy to understand.
Portable equipment: Many sets are designed for assembly and transport.
Quick rounds: Games can move relatively quickly.
Party atmosphere: Ladder toss works well for casual competition and group activities.
Best Occasions for Ladder Toss
Backyard parties
Camping trips
Tailgating
Family gatherings
Picnics and outdoor celebrations
Are There Any Downsides?
Some lightweight ladder toss sets can be less stable, especially on uneven ground.
Bolas can also tangle, and the equipment may require assembly before playing.
Our take: Ladder toss is a fun choice for casual gatherings where portability and simple gameplay are priorities.
5. Spikeball: Fast-Paced, Athletic Backyard Fun
Spikeball, commonly used to refer to the sport of roundnet, offers a very different experience from traditional lawn games.
Instead of tossing objects toward a stationary target, two teams compete around a small circular net.
Players hit a ball onto the net, attempting to make it difficult for the opposing team to return.
The result is a fast-moving game involving quick reactions, teamwork, and athletic movement.
Why People Love Spikeball
High-energy gameplay: Great for players who enjoy physical activity.
Teamwork: Doubles play encourages communication and coordination.
Portable equipment: Roundnet sets can often be packed into a carrying bag.
Competitive excitement: Fast rallies make the game entertaining to play and watch.
Best Occasions for Spikeball
Beach outings
College gatherings
Active family events
Parks and open lawns
Competitive outdoor recreation
Are There Any Downsides?
Spikeball generally requires more running, bending, and quick movement than cornhole or bocce ball.
It may be less suitable for gatherings where participants have widely different mobility levels or prefer a relaxed activity.
Our take: Spikeball is an excellent option for active groups looking for energetic competition.
Backyard Games Comparison Chart
Here's how these five outdoor games compare.
Game
Learning curve
Physical activity
Portability
Best for
Cornhole
Easy
Low
Moderate
Parties and mixed-skill groups
Bocce ball
Easy
Low
Moderate
Relaxed social gatherings
Horseshoes
Easy to learn, harder to master
Low–moderate
Moderate
Traditional backyard competition
Ladder toss
Easy
Low
Good
Camping and casual parties
Spikeball
Moderate
High
Good
Active groups and athletic competition
These are general comparisons. Equipment choices, playing conditions, and house rules can change the experience.
Cornhole vs. Bocce Ball: Which Is Better?
Cornhole and bocce ball have a lot in common.
Both are easy to learn, encourage friendly competition, and allow players to socialize throughout the game.
The biggest difference is how they're played.
Cornhole uses tossed fabric bags and angled boards, while bocce ball relies on rolling or tossing balls toward a smaller target.
Cornhole also offers more opportunities for customized equipment, including boards with names, logos, photos, and themed artwork.
Choose cornhole if: You want a recognizable party game with easy scoring, customizable equipment, and a mix of casual and competitive gameplay.
Choose bocce ball if: You prefer a slower-paced strategy game and have a suitable playing surface.
Cornhole vs. Horseshoes: Which Is Better for Families?
Both games reward throwing accuracy, but cornhole generally offers more flexibility for families with younger children.
Cornhole bags are softer and lighter than traditional metal horseshoes, and throwing distances can easily be shortened for beginners.
Horseshoes can be great fun, but metal equipment and fixed stakes require careful attention to safety.
Choose cornhole if: You're hosting mixed-age family gatherings or want equipment that's easier to adapt for younger players.
Choose horseshoes if: You enjoy traditional throwing games and have an appropriate dedicated playing area.
Cornhole vs. Ladder Toss: Which Is Better for Tailgating?
Both games are popular at tailgates because they're easy to understand and encourage friendly competition.
Ladder toss equipment can be lightweight and portable, making it convenient for travel.
Cornhole, however, has a strong connection to tailgating culture, and boards can be customized with favorite team colors and designs.
Choose cornhole if: You want a classic tailgate experience and enjoy personalized boards.
Choose ladder toss if: Lightweight equipment and compact storage are your biggest priorities.
Cornhole vs. Spikeball: Relaxed Fun or Athletic Competition?
This comparison comes down largely to the kind of gathering you're hosting.
Cornhole works well when guests want to socialize, enjoy refreshments, and play at a comfortable pace.
Spikeball is better suited for people who want to move around, react quickly, and engage in a more athletic game.
Choose cornhole if: You want an inclusive, relaxed backyard activity.
Choose Spikeball if: Your group prefers high-energy, fast-paced competition.
Which Backyard Game Is Best for Your Next Party?
The best game depends on your guests, available space, and the atmosphere you want to create.
Best for Family Gatherings: Cornhole
Its simple rules and adjustable difficulty make it a strong choice for different generations and experience levels.
Best for Relaxed Adult Gatherings: Bocce Ball
Bocce is ideal for groups who enjoy conversation and strategy without a fast pace.
Best for Traditional Competition: Horseshoes
A classic choice for players who enjoy accuracy-based throwing games.
Best for Camping and Portable Fun: Ladder Toss
Many ladder toss sets are easy to transport and assemble.
Best for Active Groups: Spikeball
A great option for people who enjoy movement, teamwork, and fast competition.
Why Cornhole Is One of the Best All-Around Backyard Games
While every game on this list has something special to offer, cornhole stands out for its combination of accessibility, social appeal, and versatility.
You can introduce someone to the game in minutes, yet players can spend years developing more advanced techniques.
You can play casually at a family barbecue or join a local competitive league.
And you can personalize your equipment to match your home, favorite team colors, business, or special occasion.
For beginners, the most important thing is choosing equipment that fits how and where you plan to play.
Cornhole, bocce ball, horseshoes, ladder toss, and Spikeball are all popular choices. Cornhole is particularly versatile because it works for both relaxed gatherings and competitive play.
What is the easiest outdoor game to learn?
Cornhole, bocce ball, and ladder toss all have relatively simple basic rules. Most beginners can start playing after a brief explanation.
What backyard games are good for families?
Cornhole and bocce ball are excellent choices for many family gatherings. Equipment and rules can be adapted to suit different ages and skill levels.
Is cornhole better than horseshoes?
It depends on your preferences. Cornhole offers softer throwing equipment and flexible setup options, while horseshoes provides a more traditional throwing challenge.
What is a good backyard game for a party?
Cornhole is a strong option because players can rotate in and out, socialize between throws, and participate without extensive experience.
How much space do you need for cornhole?
Regulation cornhole uses boards positioned 27 feet apart, measured between their front edges. You'll also need additional clearance around the playing area.
For recreational games, you can shorten the distance to suit your space and players.
Can you play cornhole on grass?
Yes! Cornhole is commonly played on grass, provided the boards are stable and the playing area is reasonably level.
Final Thoughts: The Best Backyard Game Is the One That Brings Everyone Together
Whether you prefer the precision of cornhole, the strategy of bocce ball, the tradition of horseshoes, the simplicity of ladder toss, or the fast-paced action of Spikeball, outdoor games offer something for almost everyone.
They encourage friendly competition, create opportunities for conversation, and help turn ordinary gatherings into memorable experiences.
If you're looking for a backyard game that's easy to learn, fun to master, and suitable for a wide range of players, cornhole is hard to beat.
At CornholeBags.com — The Cornhole Superstore, we're here to help you find the right bags, boards, and accessories for your next gathering.
