20 Fun Outdoor Games For Youth
Outdoor activities are a great way for youth to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air, and have fun with their friends. If you’re looking for some new and exciting games to play outdoors, look no further! Here are 20 fun outdoor games for youth that are sure to keep everyone entertained.
1. Capture the Flag
Capture the Flag is a classic outdoor game that is perfect for large groups. Split the players into two teams and designate a «jail» for each team. Each team’s goal is to capture the other team’s flag and bring it back to their own territory without getting tagged. It’s a game of strategy, speed, and teamwork.
2. Kickball
Kickball is a popular game for youth that is similar to baseball, but with a few key differences. Instead of using a bat and a small ball, players kick a large rubber ball and run the bases to score points. It’s a simple and fun game that anyone can play.
3. Water Balloon Toss
On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than a water balloon toss. Pair up players and have them stand a few feet apart. One player tosses a water balloon to their partner, who catches it and takes a step back. The game continues until all the balloons have been popped, and the pair with the least amount of water on them wins.
4. Freeze Tag
Freeze Tag is a classic game that is always a hit with youth. One player is designated as the «tagger» and tries to tag the other players. When a player is tagged, they must freeze in place until another player unfreezes them by tagging them. The game continues until all players are frozen.
5. Three-Legged Race
The Three-Legged Race is a hilarious game that requires pairs of players to work together to run to the finish line. Each pair ties one leg together and must coordinate their movements to move as quickly as possible. It’s a great game for building teamwork and communication skills.
6. Sardines
Sardines is a fun and exciting twist on the classic game of Hide and Seek. One player hides while the rest of the players close their eyes and count. Once the counting is done, the players search for the hidden player. When they find the hider, they must quietly join them in their hiding spot. The game continues until everyone is packed into the hiding spot like sardines.
7. Red Light, Green Light
Red Light, Green Light is a simple but entertaining game that is perfect for younger players. One player is the «stoplight» and stands with their back to the other players. When the stoplight says «green light,» players can move forward, but when they say «red light,» players must freeze. Any players caught moving after «red light» are out.
8. Tug of War
Tug of War is a fun game that pits two teams against each other in a test of strength and teamwork. Each team holds onto one end of a long rope and tries to pull the other team across a designated line. It’s a great game for building camaraderie and sportsmanship.
9. Water Balloon Piñatas
Water Balloon Piñatas are a refreshing take on the traditional piñata game. Hang several water balloons from a tree or a rope, and players take turns trying to break them open with a stick while blindfolded. It’s a fun way to cool off on a hot day.
10. Obstacle Course
Setting up an obstacle course is a great way to challenge youth both physically and mentally. Use cones, ropes, and other props to create a course that requires players to climb, crawl, and jump their way to the finish line. You can even add in some water or mud obstacles for an extra challenge.
11. Duck, Duck, Goose
Duck, Duck, Goose is a fun and energetic game that is perfect for large groups. Players sit in a circle, and one player walks around the outside tapping each player on the head and saying «duck.» When they say «goose,» the tapped player must jump up and chase the first player around the circle. It’s a great game for getting everyone moving and laughing.
12. Hula Hoop Contest
A Hula Hoop Contest is a simple and entertaining game that is sure to get everyone involved. See who can keep the hula hoop spinning around their waist the longest, and award a prize to the winner. You can also add in some fun challenges, like spinning the hula hoop around their arm or neck.
13. Sidewalk Chalk Art
Sidewalk Chalk Art is a creative and relaxing game that can be enjoyed by youth of all ages. Provide a variety of sidewalk chalk colors and let the players unleash their creativity on the pavement. You can even hold a contest for the best sidewalk chalk art.
14. Balloon Pop Relay
The Balloon Pop Relay is a fast-paced and exciting game that requires players to work together in teams. Players race to a designated point while carrying a balloon between their legs. Once they reach the point, they must pop the balloon using only their bodies, and then run back to tag the next player in line.
15. Pin the Tail on the Donkey
Pin the Tail on the Donkey is a classic party game that is always a hit with youth. Blindfold a player, spin them around, and have them try to pin the tail on the donkey. It’s a simple but entertaining game that is sure to get everyone laughing.
16. Ultimate Frisbee
Ultimate Frisbee is a fast-paced and challenging game that is a great way to get youth up and moving. Players pass a frisbee down the field and try to score points by catching it in the opposing team’s end zone. It’s a game that requires both physical skill and strategic thinking.
17. Simon Says
Simon Says is a classic game that is perfect for getting youth to listen and follow directions. One player is «Simon» and gives commands to the rest of the players, such as «Simon says touch your toes.» Players must only follow the commands that begin with «Simon says,» and anyone who follows a command without «Simon says» is out.
18. Nature Scavenger Hunt
A Nature Scavenger Hunt is a great way to get youth exploring the outdoors and learning about the environment. Create a list of items for players to find, such as a feather, a pinecone, or a specific type of leaf. The first player or team to find all the items on their list wins.
19. Human Knot
The Human Knot is a challenging and fun game that requires players to work together to untangle themselves. Players stand in a circle and hold hands with two different players. They must then work together to untangle themselves without letting go of each other’s hands. It’s a great game for building teamwork and problem-solving skills.
20. Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest
A Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest is a messy but hilarious game that is sure to get everyone laughing. See who can spit a watermelon seed the farthest, and award a prize to the winner. You can even have different categories, such as most accurate seed spitter or longest distance.
Conclusion
These 20 fun outdoor games for youth are a great way to get everyone outside and enjoying the fresh air. Whether you’re planning a youth group outing, a birthday party, or just a day at the park, these games are sure to provide hours of entertainment for players of all ages. So gather up your friends, grab some sunscreen, and get ready to have a blast with these fun outdoor games!