Best Outdoor Equipment to Keep Older Kids Busy and Active

As kids get older, they still crave playtime—but their idea of “fun” shifts from simple swings and slides to bigger challenges, faster games, and gear that makes them feel more grown-up. Around here, I’ve learned that if I have the right outdoor equipment ready, my kids will actually choose to head outside instead of reaching for a screen.

Here are some of our family favorites that keep older kids moving, climbing, and laughing for hours:

1. Climbing Rope Tree Swing 🌳

Our kids are absolutely obsessed with this one. It’s more than just a swing—it’s part climbing adventure, part monkey gym. The rope has sturdy platforms, so they climb all the way up, swing back down, and then climb again.

And the best part (according to them) touching the leaves at the top! Every single time they reach the branches, you’d think they just won an Olympic medal with how loud they cheer. The adjustable attachment makes it easy to fit on whatever tree you’ve got, and honestly, it’s been the best way to get them outside without a single complaint.

👉 Check out the climbing rope tree swing here

2. Portable & Adjustable Net Set 🏸

If there’s one piece of equipment that earns the title “most versatile,” this is it. We set it up in the yard in just a couple of minutes (seriously, you only need one set of hands), and suddenly the kids have a dozen games going.

They play badminton, pickleball, and volleyball (well, at least try to play, they're getting better!) But then they get really creative—using it as a hurdle to see who can jump the highest or lowering it for limbo contests. We’ve even packed it up and brought it to the park for family picnics. It’s one of those things I didn’t realize we’d use so much, but now it’s in constant rotation.

👉 Grab the portable net set here

3. Tennis Rackets 🎾

There’s something about handing kids tennis rackets that makes them feel instantly grown-up. Ours love setting up little matches in the driveway, practicing serves, and yes—sometimes just hitting the ball against the garage for 30 minutes straight. We do have a tennis court in the neighborhood, so they will sometimes ride their bikes to the court to play too.

It’s a perfect mix of exercise and coordination, and it’s a game they can grow into. Start with fun volleys in the yard, then graduate to the neighborhood courts when they’re ready. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to wear them out in the best way possible.

👉 See a beginner-friendly tennis racket set here

4. Skip Hop / Skip Ball Game

Talk about a throwback! I had one of these when I was a kid, and now my kids can’t get enough of them. You strap the loop around your ankle, swing the ball in a circle, and jump each time it comes around. Simple, yes—but surprisingly addictive.

My kids compete to see who can get the highest streak without missing, and the giggles when someone trips up are the best. Bonus: it’s a serious cardio workout (but don’t tell them that). They just think it’s a fun challenge.

👉 Get a skip ball set here

5. Spikeball Set

If you haven’t seen Spikeball yet, imagine a cross between volleyball and four square, but with a round net on the ground. Our kids love it because it’s fast-paced and keeps everyone on their toes.

It’s also the kind of game that gets the whole family involved, or their friends when they come over. We’ve had some pretty epic parents-vs-kids matches, and let’s just say—we don’t always win! The best part is it folds up easily, so it’s just as fun at the beach or park as it is in the backyard.

👉 Check out a spikeball set here

6. Kan Jam Game 🥏

Kan Jam is another backyard favorite that has become a staple for us. It’s easy to learn but so addictive—throw the disc, deflect it, and try to land it in the can. The moment someone makes that perfect slot shot? Instant cheers and bragging rights.

We love that it’s portable, quick to set up, and works for kids, teens, and adults alike. Whether it’s in the backyard, at the park, or even a beach day, Kan Jam is always a hit.

👉 Check out the Kan Jam game here

Why Outdoor Equipment Works for Older Kids

Older kids want more than just a way to burn energy—they want to compete, create, and challenge themselves. Each of these pieces of equipment does exactly that, whether it’s racing to the top of a climbing rope, inventing new net games, or setting up a family disc game.

And the best part? With this kind of gear in the yard, screen time doesn’t stand a chance.

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