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    Home » Gift Guides

    The 20 Best Outdoor Toys for Summer

    Published: Jun 17, 2025 by Vicky · This post may contain affiliate links · 4 Comments

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    Outdoor Toys for Summer

    Whether you're a parent or teacher, you know that keeping kids active and happy in the summer can be a challenge. That's why I am such a fan of these 20 Best Outdoor Toys for Summer. If you are looking for summer activities to keep kids busy and having fun, I think you'll love these toys too.

    These toys are sure to bring big smiles all summer long!

    Why You'll Love Outdoor Toys for Summer

    • Fun for toddlers, big kids, and even grown-ups
    • Get kids moving and off screens
    • Great for sunny days and backyard fun
    • Help burn off energy
    • Simple, low-mess, and no big setup needed

    Tips for Using Outdoor Toys

    Tip 1: Set up a play area to use these toys! A shady spot or a grassy area works great. Having a water station nearby is helpful for hot weather.

    Tip 2: Kids might try using the toys in a new way. That is fine. As long as they are being safe, it is a great way for them to stretch their imagination.

    Tip 3: To make cleanup easy, have a bin or basket ready so you’re not looking for pieces all over the yard.

    FAQs for Summer Outdoor Toys

    How do I pick the right outdoor toy?

    Consider your child’s age, how much space you have, and what kind of play they enjoy. Do they like water, climbing, or pretend play?

    Can I use these toys at the park or beach?

    Yes, as long as they are easy to pack, you can take them on the go.

    Can outdoor toys help with learning?

    They certainly can. Many of these toys build skills like coordination, sharing, and creativity while kids have fun.

    Best Outdoor Toys for Summer

    These toys make outdoor play new and exciting for kids of all ages. From water games to creative play, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your go-to list for the best outdoor toys this season!

    1
    Play Tent
    This play tent is perfect for backyard camping adventures. It has a waterproof floor and mesh top, so kids can stay dry and still enjoy the view. It’s great for sleepovers or just a cozy hideaway during the day.
    Click here for this fun toy
    2
    Scoop Ball Set
    Scoop Ball Set
    This toss-and-catch game comes with two scoops and two balls, making it perfect for playing with a friend. It’s great for outdoor fun at the park, beach, or backyard. Plus, it helps kids improve their hand-eye coordination while they play.
    Click here for this fun toy
    3
    Kids Camping Set with Tent
    This camping playset comes with a tent and lots of fun accessories like sleeping bags and camping tools. It’s perfect for kids who love pretend play and outdoor adventures. Easy to set up, it turns any backyard into a camping spot full of imagination.
    Click here for this fun toy
    4
    Hopscotch Mat
    Hopscotch Mat
    This hopscotch playmat features 10 interlocking foam tiles, each numbered for a classic hopping game. The soft, cushioned surface makes it safe for indoor or outdoor play. It's a fun way for kids to develop balance, coordination, and number recognition while staying active.
    Click here for this fun toy
    5
    Bug Catcher Set
    This bug-catching set is great for little explorers. It has a tank with a clear window and tools to safely catch and study bugs. It makes outdoor adventures even more fun!
    Click here for this fun toy
    6
    Water Table
    This water table lets kids scoop water and watch it rain down through spinning wheels and ramps. It comes with 13 fun accessories for creative play and can hold sand too. Perfect for backyard fun and playdates!
    Click here for this fun toy
    7
    Crayola Ultimate Washable Chalk Collection
    Crayola Ultimate Washable Chalk Collection
    Kids love how the bold colors make their driveway doodles pop. This chalk is a summer staple and brings their imagination to life. The best part is it can be washed all away to start fresh the next day!
    Click here for this fun toy
    8
    Flower Sprinkler
    Flower Sprinkler
    This flower sprinkler sprays water all around, making it perfect for running through and cooling off. Just attach it to a hose for easy, fun outdoor play on hot days.
    Click here for this fun toy
    9
    Egg and Spoon Race
    Egg and Spoon Race
    This classic egg-and-spoon race game brings outdoor fun to any gathering. It includes colorful spoons and lightweight eggs, perfect for kids to balance and race without the mess of real eggs. Ideal for birthdays, picnics, or school events, it encourages friendly competition and helps develop coordination.
    Click here for this fun toy
    10
    Colorful Cones
    Colorful Cones
    Colorful cones are fantastic for sparking outdoor fun and creativity in kids. They can be used to set up obstacle courses, mark boundaries for games, or create fun challenges that improve coordination and teamwork. Their bright colors make them easy to spot, adding an extra element of excitement to any activity.
    Click here for this fun toy
    11
    Water Balloons
    Water Balloons
    Water balloons are a classic summer treat, and these self-sealing ones make cleanup a breeze. They fill up quickly and tie themselves off, so kids can get back to the fun faster. Perfect for backyard battles, birthday parties, or just cooling off on a hot day.
    Click here for this fun toy
    12
    Monkey Kite
    Monkey Kite
    This is a big kite shaped like a happy monkey. It has long arms and a tail that move in the wind. It’s easy for kids to fly and great for outdoor fun.
    Click here for this fun toy
    13
    Bubble Machine
    This bubble machine is a must-have for summer fun. It blows hundreds of bubbles in seconds, filling the yard with floating, shiny bubbles. Its cute design and easy button make it perfect for kids to enjoy at outdoor parties or sunny day play.
    Click here for this fun toy
    14
    Plasma Car
    The Plasma Car is a ride-on toy that moves without pedals or batteries. Kids just turn the steering wheel and it goes in that direction. Kids can zoom around driveways or sidewalks using only their hands to steer. It's a fun and smooth ride that’s perfect for active summer play.
    Click here for this fun toy
    15
    turtle target game
    Target Game
    This is a fun target game shaped like a smiling turtle. Kids throw bean bags at the numbered spots on its back to score points. It's great for improving aim and having fun outdoors.
    Click here for this fun toy
    16
    Bowling Set
    This bowling set is a fun way for kids to play indoors or outdoors. It includes 10 colorful pins and 2 soft balls, making it safe and easy for little hands. Children can enjoy learning numbers and improving their hand-eye coordination while playing.
    Click here for this fun toy
    17
    Scooter
    This scooter is perfect for kids who love to zoom around outside. It has three wheels to keep them steady and fun lights that flash as they ride. The seat folds up so it can be used as a regular scooter or a ride-on, making it great for different ages and lots of outdoor fun.
    Click here for this fun toy
    18
    Beach Set
    This beach set is perfect for kids who love playing in the sand and water. It’s easy to carry with a handy mesh bag, making it great for trips to the beach. The bright colors and fun shapes keep kids busy and happy for hours.
    Click here for this fun toy
    19
    Tee Ball Set
    The Tee Ball Set is a fun way for kids to learn baseball basics. It has an adjustable tee, making it easier for children to hit the ball. This toy helps improve hand-eye coordination and is great for outdoor play.
    Click here for this fun toy
    20
    Hula Hoops
    Hula hoops are a fantastic way for kids to stay active and have fun outdoors. They help improve coordination, balance, and rhythm while encouraging creative play. Whether used for traditional hooping, obstacle courses, or group games, hula hoops offer endless entertainment for children of all ages.
    Click here for this fun toy

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    1. Lyla Morris says

      September 10, 2018 at 3:54 am

      I was searching for the toy for my son for his birthday which is in next month. he is interested in Bowling so, bowling set will be the perfect gift for him. Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
    2. Emilie J. Hedegaard says

      August 07, 2018 at 11:08 pm

      I like all these toys, especially the beach set. Although I am not a child.

      Reply
    3. Ellie Bell says

      March 21, 2017 at 11:04 pm

      Great post. I would like to add one more toy i.e rocket copter, which is an excellent outdoor toy for kids.

      Reply
    4. Suzanne Schlechte says

      June 06, 2014 at 7:39 pm

      These are great toys! We own many of the same ones you've mentioned. I haven't found my buddies to be as fond of the catchers, though. The water table is our number one fave and we have the exact same one as you - I've owned others but that particular one is the best.

      Reply
    Vicky from Mess for Less

    I'm Vicky, the founder of Mess For Less, which I started in 2011 to share easy, family-friendly recipes. With over a decade of experience as a home chef and recipe developer, I love creating meals that bring people together. I also design play and learning activities for kids, using my background as a former teacher with a Master’s degree in education. Learn more about me.

    Summer

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