Oh, you think this is over? This is not over! Fall is the perfect time to enjoy even more time outdoors at your lakehouse. The hot summer months give way to lower humidity and milder temperatures, creating the perfect conditions for outdoor activities. Even as swimming and boating begin to wind down, the fun at the lake never goes out of season.
As the water toys are put away and the boats are stored, it’s time to make way for a new kind of entertainment—lawn games. These activities keep the energy alive at the lake while giving families and friends a reason to stay outdoors well into the cooler months.
Lake-Friendly Classics
Some games are staples at lake homes because they’re easy to play, don’t require much setup, and can be enjoyed by all ages.
Cornhole remains a go-to lake game. Whether you’re tossing bean bags on the grass, the dock, or even a sandy beach area, it’s a competitive yet relaxed way to bring everyone together.
Ladder Toss is another favorite, known for its casual pace. Players can easily chat and hold a drink while taking turns, making it ideal for dockside fun. Its lightweight design also makes it easy to pack and carry.
Horseshoes or Rubber Quoits bring a touch of nostalgia to lake living. While traditional horseshoes are classic, rubber versions are safer near docks and boats while still keeping the competition fierce.
Bocce Ball is a versatile option that works beautifully on grassy yards or sandy shorelines. The game is simple enough for kids to learn, yet strategic enough to keep adults engaged.
Competitive and Team Games
For those who enjoy more fast-paced or strategic challenges, there are plenty of games that bring extra excitement to the lake.
Spikeball has quickly grown in popularity for its high-energy, action-packed style. Played on grass or sand, it’s a workout disguised as a game, perfect for teens and active adults.
KanJam combines frisbee throwing with the strategy of cornhole. Lightweight and portable, it’s easy to carry to the shoreline or set up in the backyard, making it a great option for groups.
Giant Jenga is perfect for porch gatherings or entertaining on the dock. The oversized wooden blocks create suspense with every move, and the dramatic crashes are always a crowd-pleaser.
Kubb, also known as Viking Chess, adds a mix of strategy and skill to the lineup. Players take turns tossing wooden batons to knock down their opponent’s blocks, making it a great balance of teamwork and competition.
Why Lawn Games Make Fall at the Lake Special
As the season shifts, lawn games fill the gap left by summer’s water-based activities. They bring people together in friendly competition, encourage time outdoors, and add laughter to cool fall evenings. These games are also affordable, easy to store, and adaptable to various outdoor spaces, ranging from wide, grassy lawns to sandy beaches.
Fall may mark the end of long summer days on the water, but it also opens the door to a new kind of lake lifestyle. Whether you’re tossing a bean bag, rolling a bocce ball, or balancing a Giant Jenga tower, one thing is certain—fun at the lake never goes out of season.