17 easy backyard ideas so you don’t go crazy during the summer

The backyard becomes a bit of a haven during the summertime. Parents need their kids to have a fun place to play. So, why not make it a place that everyone can enjoy? Here’s 17 awesome backyard must-haves to brighten your days all summer long.

As a child, I have fond memories of playing in my backyard. It doesn’t take much to make your backyard a place where many memories are formed. Here’s a few ideas to get you started.

1. Climbing trees

Aside from the great shade, kids love to climb trees. I would recommend a Fruitless Mulberry. They grow fast and the roots down disturb the ground around it. Or you can try an apricot tree. They are sturdy and give you fruit too!

2. Hammock

Everyone loves our hammock. And we’ve gone through so many. Find two trees to hang it. Hours of fun. If you don’t have any trees, these self-standing hammocks are great too.

3. Trampoline

A trampoline is the one thing my kids ALWAYS play on no matter what. I wouldn’t be able to survive without one.

4. Open grass area

Kids love to run and play on the grass.

5. Outdoor drinking fountain

I can’t count how many times my kids ask for a drink in the summer. Make your life easier and buy an outdoor drinking fountain. They work great!

6. Zip line

A zip line will provide literally hours of fun and the kids just don’t seem to get tired of these. Just make sure they use the zip line safely. You can buy one here.

7. Fort or tree house

You don’t have to spend thousands on a tree house. There are a lot of affordable options online. You can also try building your own. Or you can do what we did and turn your lilac tree into a fort. Works just as good.

8. Homemade slide

If you can fasten a pile of logs or if you already have a hill or a deck in your backyard, just add a slide. You can also buy a self-standing slide too.

9. Old tires

People give these things away all the time. Although it’s a little bit of an effort, my kids love playing on them. Check out these DIY crafting ideas for old tires.

10. Sandbox

A sandbox is like the trampoline, it never gets old. If you don’t want your sandbox to take up too much space, check out this cabana sandbox. Or build your own sandbox (step-by-step instructions here). Here’s some sandbox tips and trips that might help too.

11. Swings

I like the self-standing swing sets that aren’t connected to a jungle gym. But regardless, get some swings! Kids love them. Check out these awesome swing saucer sets.

12. Chickens

These little ladies are so cute and super easy. Plus, they teach your kids how to take care of animals. Check out my blog post on backyard chickens to learn how to do it yourself.

13. Fire pit

Kids and fires, they are such a bad combination and yet such great combination as the same time! Ha ha. You can buy a simple fire pit that can be moved around the yard or make your own!

14. Pool or slip n’ slide

I don’t have a real swimming pool in my backyard because I’m terrified my kids will drown. However, a miniature pool or a slip n’ slide will do the trick on those hot summer days. Or you can go all out and buy a water bounce house. Here’s how to make your own slip n’ slide in two steps!

15. Garden

We love picking fresh fruits and veggies from the garden. It’s a tradition that my husband grew up with and we’re passing it on to our kids. Plus picking weeds is a great chore in the summertime.

16. Teeter totter

These are super fun. We got an airplane teeter totter from my brother and this thing is built to last and my kids love it.

17. Dome climber

I love these dome climbers. My kids love to climb, make forts and just have fun on ours. Great investment.

What ideas do you have to make your backyard fun for your kids? Leave your comments below.

Related link: 10 Tips to a germ-free home (advice from a real mom)