In this guide, you’ll learn how to transform your backyard into the ultimate kids’ play space with DIY structures designed for adventure and imagination.

    Perhaps you have several young children in your home and feel like something’s been missing. If you have a backyard, a DIY playground can be a great place for the whole family to play together, and kids can have a safe environment to work off their energy.


    The Projects

    Here’s a quick example of how we added a playground to a backyard. 

    We’ll use the existing playhouse to anchor a fenced area that will become a pretend neighborhood with oversized games for family fun.

    We’ll build a treehouse off the deck.

    Behind that, we’ll make a climbing wall with a cargo net.

    We’ll create an obstacle course along the backyard’s edge.


    Building the Playhouse Neighborhood

    Transforming your backyard into an immersive playground for kids starts with designating a play space. A small fenced area anchored by an existing or new playhouse structure works perfectly.

    We erected a picket fence around the playhouse to create a play area. This defines the space while keeping kids contained. Inside, we added structures like a lemonade stand, bus stop bench, and raised beds.

    We also included oversized backyard games like giant checkers, Connect Four, cornhole, and dominoes for family fun. It’s now a whimsical oasis where kids can imagine and play.


    Constructing a Treehouse

    treehouse
    Image Credit: Canva

    Are you looking to add a classic backyard treehouse for kids? Building a DIY treehouse is a great weekend project for handy homeowners.

    We built a simple A-frame design from pressure-treated pine for durability. It’s anchored securely between two sturdy trees and is accessible by a ladder. For safety, there are handrails on the front platform. The inside is open, so kids can decorate it as a secret fortress. 

    Building a DIY treehouse is rewarding for handy parents and kids. It provides lasting memories and space for creative play.


    Adding a Climbing Wall and Cargo Net

    playground
    Image Credit: Canva

    Next to the treehouse, we made an eight-foot climbing wall out of wood. A mix of colored grips was screwed in, creating fun hand and foot holds for climbing. As kids traverse the wall, they build strength, coordination, and agility.

    On the back is a braided nylon net with knotted handholds — this cargo net leads to a platform at the top.

    Now, a challenging vertical structure introduces adventure to the backyard.


    Building an Obstacle Course

    obstacle course
    Image Credit: Canva

    An obstacle course engages physical abilities while keeping kids active outside. Ours zigzags across the yard. It starts with a balance beam made of a 2 x 6 board between the stumps. Stepping stones offer alternate paths. Next, there’s a plastic culvert tunnel to crawl through. 

    Then, there’s an elevated bridge with rope rails. Underneath, we put a limbo bar at varying heights to test flexibility.

    Finally, an angled ladder against a tree builds coordination. Kids can race friends or challenge themselves. Running the course routinely will build fitness.


    So, Is a Backyard Playground a Good Idea?

    Creating a play space has many benefits. It encourages active outdoor time, improving health. Imaginative play develops creativity. Building structures like a treehouse, climbing wall, and obstacle course challenges abilities. Including family games builds stronger bonds. 

    A playground entertains kids at home for years and memories of playing together last lifetimes. With supervision and safety precautions, a backyard playground can be a rewarding family DIY project.


    FAQs About Backyard Playgrounds

    What are budget-friendly backyard playground ideas?

    Some inexpensive ideas include hopscotch, foursquare, chalk art, tire swings, sprinklers, trails, and sandboxes. Repurposing household items works, too.


    How much does a backyard playground cost?

    Costs can range from a few hundred dollars for basic equipment to several thousand for more elaborate structures. The sky’s the limit for backyard play.


    What safety steps should I take?

    Actively supervise play on structures like climbing walls and treehouses. Routinely check structures for stability and wear. Use ground cover like mulch or rubber mats. Make appropriate use of helmets, harnesses, gloves, and other safety gear.


    What materials work best?

    Use weather-resistant materials like pressure-treated pine, outdoor plywood, galvanized hardware, plastic or composite lumber, and mildew-resistant nylon.


    Should I hire a contractor?

    While DIY builds are rewarding, complex structures benefit from contractor expertise in proper techniques and safety. Consult codes and get permits if needed.


    Editorial Contributors
    avatar for Jonathon Jachura

    Jonathon Jachura

    Contributor

    Jonathon Jachura is a two-time homeowner with hands-on experience with HVAC, gutters, plumbing, lawn care, pest control, and other aspects of owning a home. He is passionate about home maintenance and finding the best services. His main goal is to educate others with crisp, concise descriptions that any homeowner can use. Jon uses his strong technical background to create engaging, easy-to-read, and informative guides. He does most of his home and lawn projects himself but hires professional companies for the “big things.” He knows what goes into finding the best service providers and contractors. Jon studied mechanical engineering at Purdue University in Indiana and worked in the HVAC industry for 12 years. Between his various home improvement projects, he enjoys the outdoors, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with his family.

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    photo of Lee Ann Merrill

    Lee Ann Merrill

    Chicago-based Lee Ann Merrill has decades of experience writing and editing across a wide range of technical and scientific subjects. Her love of DIY, gardening, and making led her to the realm of creating and honing quality content for homeowners. When she's not working on her craft, you can find her exploring her city by bike and plotting international adventures.

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