The Best Backyard Playsets & Swing Sets – 15 Fun Playground Games

If you are looking for inspiration and real user feedback on some of the most fun swing and playsets for your own backyard playground you are in the right place.

We have looked at dozens of models and selected 15 top-rated game sets that provide safe entertainment for energetic children without having to leave home.

Invite the neighbour kids over for some fun in the sun or just prepare your favorite beverage and get the camera ready to capture those smiley faces.

The Backyard Swing & Playsets Reviewed

*We select and review all products independently, based on our opinion and customer feedback. Some links on this page are affiliate links and if you make a purchase we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more info on our disclaimer page.

#1	1. Easy Outdoor Space Dome Climber – Age group: 3 to 9 y.o.- Weight capacity: 1000 pounds- Durable material, easy to move Read Our Review	Our Rating
#2	2. Gorilla Playset – Age group: 3 to 11 y.o.- Play deck height: 4′ – Plenty of play options, compact footprint  Read Our Review	Our Rating
#3	3. CTSC Zip Line – Age group: age 8 and up.- Maximum weight capacity: 250 pounds- 10-year warranty Read Our Review	Our Rating
#4	4. Little Tikes Inflatable Jump ‘n Slide Bounce House – Age group: preschoolers- Maximum weight capacity: 250 pounds- Rapid assembly and disassembly Read Our Review	Our Rating
#5	5. VW Wonder View Tree Swing – Quick and easy setup – Weight capacity: 600 pounds- Sturdy materials, plenty of eye appeal Read Our Review	Our Rating
#6	6. Step2 Playhouse – Age group: preschoolers- Weight capacity: 250 pounds for climber, 75 pounds for swings- Sturdy design, safety slide Read Our Review	Our Rating
#7	7. Flybold Ninja Obstacle Course – Age group: active older kids- Weight capacity: 300 pounds- Customizable design, portable Read Our Review	Our Rating
#8	8. Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars – Age group: 3 to 8 y.o.- Weight capacity: 150 pounds- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use Read Our Review	Our Rating
#9	9. Swurfer Swing – Age group: ages 6+- Weight capacity: 200 pounds- Sturdy, adjustable Read Our Review	Our Rating
#10	10. Gym Dandy Spinning Teeter Totter – Age group: 3 to 13 y.o.- Weight capacity 300 pounds- Unique design, sturdy construction Read Our Review	Our Rating
#11	11. Royal Oak Giant Platform Tree Swing – Weight capacity: 700 pounds- Heavy duty, attractive design – Weather resistant Read Our Review	Our Rating
#12	12. Sportspower Arcadia Swing Set – Age group: kids under 7 years old- Weight capacity: 600 pounds’ total- Stable, thoughtful safety features Read Our Review	Our Rating
#13	13. Trailblaze Ninja Course – Weight capacity: 250 pounds- Easy to transport – 1 year warranty Read Our Review	Our Rating
#14	14. Gym1 Deluxe Indoor Playground Set – Age group: 3-12 y.o.- Weight capacity: 300 pounds- Heavy duty, durable Read Our Review	Our Rating
#15	15. Squirrel Products Swing Seats – Age group: ages 3+- Weight capacity: 250 pounds- Comfortable, durable Read Our Review	Our Rating

#1
1. Easy Outdoor Space Dome Climber – Age group: 3 to 9 y.o.- Weight capacity: 1000 pounds- Durable material, easy to move Read Our Review
Our Rating

#2
2. Gorilla Playset – Age group: 3 to 11 y.o.- Play deck height: 4′ – Plenty of play options, compact footprint Read Our Review
Our Rating

#3
3. CTSC Zip Line – Age group: age 8 and up.- Maximum weight capacity: 250 pounds- 10-year warranty Read Our Review
Our Rating

#4
4. Little Tikes Inflatable Jump ‘n Slide Bounce House – Age group: preschoolers- Maximum weight capacity: 250 pounds- Rapid assembly and disassembly Read Our Review
Our Rating

#5
5. VW Wonder View Tree Swing – Quick and easy setup – Weight capacity: 600 pounds- Sturdy materials, plenty of eye appeal Read Our Review
Our Rating

#6
6. Step2 Playhouse – Age group: preschoolers- Weight capacity: 250 pounds for climber, 75 pounds for swings- Sturdy design, safety slide Read Our Review
Our Rating

#7
7. Flybold Ninja Obstacle Course – Age group: active older kids- Weight capacity: 300 pounds- Customizable design, portable Read Our Review
Our Rating

#8
8. Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars – Age group: 3 to 8 y.o.- Weight capacity: 150 pounds- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use Read Our Review
Our Rating

#9
9. Swurfer Swing – Age group: ages 6+- Weight capacity: 200 pounds- Sturdy, adjustable Read Our Review
Our Rating

#10
10. Gym Dandy Spinning Teeter Totter – Age group: 3 to 13 y.o.- Weight capacity 300 pounds- Unique design, sturdy construction Read Our Review
Our Rating

#11
11. Royal Oak Giant Platform Tree Swing – Weight capacity: 700 pounds- Heavy duty, attractive design – Weather resistant Read Our Review
Our Rating

#12
12. Sportspower Arcadia Swing Set – Age group: kids under 7 years old- Weight capacity: 600 pounds’ total- Stable, thoughtful safety features Read Our Review
Our Rating

#13
13. Trailblaze Ninja Course – Weight capacity: 250 pounds- Easy to transport – 1 year warranty Read Our Review
Our Rating

#14
14. Gym1 Deluxe Indoor Playground Set – Age group: 3-12 y.o.- Weight capacity: 300 pounds- Heavy duty, durable Read Our Review
Our Rating

#15
15. Squirrel Products Swing Seats – Age group: ages 3+- Weight capacity: 250 pounds- Comfortable, durable Read Our Review
Our Rating

These game sets provide endless fun for kids and for the whole family and are bound to be the highlight of every sleepover, birthday party, and family reunion. The best models on the market include key safety features and durable parts that will last for years to come.

Let’s see a quick comparison of the games we have reviewed in this article.

Easy Outdoor Space Dome Climber

With its bright yellow, blue, and red hues, this jungle gym is sure to catch the eye of every kid on the block. Because the steel is rust- and UV-resistant, it’s suitable for every climate.

The maximum weight capacity for this unit is 1000 pounds, and the layout is generous enough to allow up to 5 children to play at once. This model is designed for children aged 3 to 9 years old.

Features:

Dimensions	91″ W X 46″ H X 91″ D
Weight capacity	1000 pounds
Warranty	2 years

Pros

• Straightforward instructions
• Can be moved easily enough not to interfere with lawn maintenance
• Great eye appeal
• Material holds up well in inclement weather

Cons

• Some additional tools may be required for assembly
• Secondary hardware (such as screws) may be prone to rust

Gorilla Playset

We love the versatility of this wood-based playset. The design includes two belt swings, a sandbox area, an “alpine wave” slide, a rock wall with a climbing rope, and a treehouse component complete with steering wheel and telescope. A single trapeze bar is positioned between the two belt swings, but an accessory arm provides room for a second trapeze.

In order to access the slide, players must climb the sturdy ladder to the treehouse. The sandbox is positioned beneath the treehouse, providing the area with plenty of shade. The design has a compact footprint, so it can be enjoyed by families with limited backyard space. The company recommends this playset for children aged 3 to 11 years.

Features:

Dimensions	15′ W X 12.5′ D X 9.5′ D
Play Deck Height	4′
Construction	Cedar wood (pre-stained and pre-sanded)

Pros

• Durable construction
• Can be enjoyed by both younger and older kids
• Versatile layout with plenty of play options
• Small footprint

Cons

• Time-consuming assembly
• Fairly pricey

CTSC Zip Line

This zip line kit is sturdily constructed and comes equipped with a stainless steel spring break to prevent the ride from coming to a sudden stop. A non-slip rubber grip and built-in seat round out the safety features. The unit is recommended for children 8 and up. Since it has a generous weight capacity of 250 pounds, most parents should be able to take a turn here and there too—assuming the kids will let them.

This model is available in several different lengths, and CTSC offers customized sets as well. They also include a 10-year warranty with every purchase, along with a 30-day money back guarantee.

Features:

Maximum Weight Capacity	250 pounds
Warranty	10 years; full refund available for first 30 days
Safety Features	Stainless steel braking system, non-slip rubber grip, seat included

Pros

• Impressive safety features
• High maximum weight capacity
• Superb customer service

Cons

• Heavy line requires 2 people to install

Little Tikes Inflatable Jump ‘n Slide Bounce House

For preschoolers, this offering from Little Tykes will be a dream come true. The inflatable structure sits low enough to the ground to give parents peace of mind, while the generously-sized (12 by 9 feet) jumping area allows 3 players to bounce at one time. A built-in slide introduces a new element to the fun.

This unit is made of puncture-resistant material, and boasts a weight capacity of 250 pounds. Included in the set are a heavy-duty air blower, 4 blower stakes, 6 bouncer stakes, a storage bag, and 4 repair patches.

Features:

Dimensions	84″ L X 84″ W X 47.5″ H
Maximum Weight Capacity	250 pounds
Maximum Number of Players	3

Pros

• Durable material
• Rapid assembly and disassembly
• Cost is low enough to justify purchasing as an alternative to renting

Cons

• Blower takes a lot of energy to run continuously
• Seams aren’t as well-constructed as the rest of the unit

VW Wonder View Tree Swing

With its green-and-black polyester construction and circular design, the VW Wonder View Tree Swing resembles a flying saucer. Since it’s capable of supporting a whopping 600 pounds of weight, it’s destined to become a backyard favorite for the whole family.

Thanks to its carefree design and easy-to-follow instructions, it can be set up in a matter of minutes. Although the swing can be installed on an existing playset, we would recommend hanging it from a tree as the name suggests.

This swing is constructed of 900D Oxford polyester that’s both waterproof and UV-resistant. The steel frame is padded with thick foam for comfort and safety. Reinforced stitching and an extra-strong rope help to ensure that the swing will deliver years of enjoyment.

Features:

Dimensions	40″ in diameter
Weight Capacity	600 pounds
Material	900D Oxford polyester

Pros

• Clever design with plenty of eye appeal
• Sturdy materials
• Excellent customer service

Cons

• Some shipping issues reported

Step2 Playhouse

The Step2 “Naturally Playful” Playhouse is a multi-purpose playset that’s ideal for preschool-aged children. In addition to the well-designed playhouse, the unit is equipped with two belt swings and a 5-1/2-foot slide. The slide’s loading area is located on top of the playhouse, with a wall on either side to help prevent falls.

This model is composed of durable plastic, which is slightly lacking in eye appeal. However, what it loses in aesthetics, it makes up for in longevity. Besides, the kids who play on it aren’t likely to care what it looks like. Note that while the maximum weight capacity for the climbing section is 250 pounds, the swings are only capable of holding up to 75 pounds each.

Features:

Dimensions	115″ W X 75″ H X 110″ D
Weight Capacity	250 pounds for climber, 75 pounds for swings
Material	Weather-resistant plastic

Pros

• Kid-friendly design
• Relatively small footprint
• Affordable price point

Cons

• Confusing instructions
• Kids tend to outgrow it quickly

Flybold Ninja Obstacle Course

An appealing option for active older kids, this obstacle course offers great value for the price. Included in the set are 40 feet of line with a twin-gear ratchet set, 4 gymnastic rings, 2 fist holds, 2 monkey bars, 13 safety strap buckles, tree protectors, and a carry bag. Users are free to customize the course as they see fit.

Because this kit can be assembled and dissembled within minutes, it’s a great choice for family reunions or vacations. It arrives in an attractive gift box and is equipped with a money-back guarantee, in addition to a one-year warranty.

Features:

Length	40 feet
Weight Capacity	300 pounds
Warranty	1 year

Pros

• Quick, easy installation
• Generous weight capacity makes it a good choice for the whole family
• Customizable design
• Portable

Cons

• Monkey bars may be too big around for smaller hands to grip comfortably
• Actual length is a good deal shorter than 40 feet after installation

Eezy Peezy Monkey Bars

Weighing in at just 27 pounds, this jungle gym is small enough not to dominate the entire backyard. Its blue and green bars have great visual appeal as well. This set is suitable for children from ages 3 to 8, but the maximum weight limit is fairly low at 150 pounds, so we would recommend close supervision during play.

The jungle gym is comprised of interlocking plastic tubes and locking springs that can be assembled quickly. The plastic is UV-protected, but the set can also be moved inside in case of inclement weather. Be aware that while locking anchors are available to keep the unit in place, they’re not included in this set.

Features:

Dimensions	70.07″ X 65.53″ X 46.65″
Weight Capacity	150 pounds
Material	UV-protected plastic

Pros

• Lightweight
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Long-lasting materials

Cons

• On the small side
• Confusing instructions

Swurfer Swing

The Swurfer is an ingenious contraption that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. This “swing board” is shaped like a curved wooden skateboard, affixed to a set of ropes. Two adjustable wooden handles allow for a firm grip, making this an appealing choice for exercise as well as play.

Swurfer recommends this product for ages 6 and up. With a weight capacity of 200 pounds, it can be enjoyed by parents as well as kids. Its unique curved design gives it a range of motion that’s lacking in most flat-bottomed swings.

Each wooden swing is shaped and finished by hand, supported by double-braided UV- and mildew-resistant rope. The kit comes with everything you’ll need for installation, including clear and concise instructions. Note that the higher you hang the swing, the more maneuverable it will be. A maximum height of 30 feet is recommended for “extreme” performance.

Features:

Dimensions	33″ X 10″ board, 60′ rope
Weight Capacity	200 pounds
Materials	Responsibly sourced wood, braided terylene rope

Pros

• Provides hours of fun for kids and adults
• Suitable for use as exercise equipment
• Environmentally sound materials
• Sturdy construction

Cons

• Not suitable for preschoolers
• Requires perfect branch configuration in order to get the full effect

Gym Dandy Spinning Teeter Totter

Unlike most seesaws, which only go up and down, this cleverly designed unit is also able to rotate in a complete circle. This takes the fun to a whole new level and is sure to be enticing to grade-schoolers.

Two soft-cushioned seats and rubber-coated ergonomic handlebars offer comfort, and urethane roller wheels beneath the seats have shock-absorbing capabilities for safety purposes. The powder-coated metal frame is rust-resistant and capable of withstanding all kinds of weather. Although this seesaw delivers plenty of fun, its use may also help to improve coordination and muscle tone.

Share the fun with friends – you no longer having to worry about your child going to the park alone. This spinning seesaw is easy to install in an area 99″ X 38″ X 45″ and holds up 300 lbs. Turn your backyard into a playground full of laughter Instantly!

Features:

Dimensions	99″ X 38″ X 45″
Weight Capacity	300 pounds
Safety Features	Roller wheels for shock absorption, padded seat backs, rubber hand grips

Pros

• Unique design
• Great eye appeal
• Good value for the price

Cons

• Padding is not as durable as the metal frame
• Players need to be roughly the same weight for the seesaw to work properly

Royal Oak Giant Platform Tree Swing

The ample surface area and high weight capacity of this platform swing make it easy for kids to pile on with a group of friends. That’s a good thing, because it would be difficult to get them to take turns. The design is eye-catching, especially when the removable flag attachments are in place, and the structure provides a ride that runs the full gamut from mellow to exciting.

This swing is constructed of 900D Oxford fabric, supported by an industrial-strength steel frame. It can be hung from either an existing swing set or a tree branch, but the “Easy Hang” straps are sold separately. Note that in order to be eligible for the 12-month warranty, buyers must purchase directly from the manufacturer.

Features:

Dimensions	40″ X 30″ swing, ropes can be adjusted from 47″ to 63″
Weight Capacity	700 pounds
Warranty	1 year

Pros

• Can hold several kids at once
• Heavy-duty, weather-resistant construction
• Versatile; can hang from a tree or a swing set
• Attractive design with removable flag decals

Cons

• Hanging strap kit not included

Sportspower Arcadia Swing Set

The Arcadia from Sportspower is a basic swing set, offering 2 sturdy-bottomed swings, a two-person glider, a trapeze bar, and a slide. With a total weight capacity of 600 pounds, up to 6 children should be able to play at once.

The unit features a heavy-duty steel construction with a powder-coated paint finish for longevity. The chains are coated in vinyl to prevent pinching, and the playset meets all ASTM safety regulations. An anchoring set is available, but not included in the purchase price.

This is a solid unit, available at a decent price. Be forewarned, however, that its components aren’t particularly sophisticated, and that it’s a little bit too small for kids over the age of 7.

Features:

Dimensions	11.1′ L X 8.3′ W X 6.1′ H
Weight Capacity	600 pounds’ total (each individual child should weigh under 100 pounds)
Maximum Number of Players	6

Pros

• Clear instructions
• Thoughtful safety features
• Stable construction with sturdy materials

Cons

• Basic design
• Slightly undersized

Trailblaze Ninja Course

This obstacle course features a number of intriguing components that are sure to delight even the most screen-obsessed kid on the block. Included in the set are a 50-foot line, 3 gymnastic rings, 3 fist holds, 2 monkey bars with safety strap buckles and delta rings, tree protectors, a seat swing, and a twin-gear ratchet set. A carry bag is also included, so the set can be packed up for camping trips or visits to the beach.

All of the obstacle course components feature an easy-grip design, and the course can be customized to your liking. The set includes 3 extra strap buckles, so more obstacles can be added if you have them. Trailblaze backs up its product with a money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty.

Features:

Dimensions	50 feet
Weight Capacity	250 pounds
Warranty	1 year

Pros

• Customizable obstacle courses with numerous components
• Easy to transport
• Features a longer line than most of the competition

Cons

• Relatively low maximum weight capacity
• Trees need to be set just the right distance apart

Gym1 Deluxe Indoor Playground Set

What we love most about the Gym1 Deluxe Indoor Playground is the flexibility. The components can be installed in any regular doorway from 25 to 36 inches wide, with no drilling required. Included in the set are a climbing rope with knots, a belt swing, a ladder, a trapeze, and a core doorway unit for easy installation. The set has a weight capacity limit of 300 pounds for each component.

The manufacturer claims that this product is suitable for ages 3 through 12, giving it a broader range than most of the units listed here. Budding gymnasts can use the trapeze and ring attachments to practice at home, while the climbing rope helps build core strength. The price tag is a bit high, but not prohibitive, especially considering how versatile this set is.

Features:

Weight Capacity	300 pounds
Materials	Heavy-duty steel and durable plastic
Age Range	3-12 years

Pros

• Can be installed easily in most standard doorframes
• Offers plenty of options
• Suitable for tweens and middle-school aged children as well as preschoolers

Cons

• Slightly pricey
• Doors can’t be closed when components are installed in the frame

Squirrel Products Swing Seats

If you’ve built or inherited an empty swing set, this two-pack from Squirrel Products is designed to fill in the blanks. While some basic hardware is included, these belt-style swings are designed for installation on an existing frame. Note that in addition to providing the frame, you’ll have to purchase the installation hooks separately.

Dark green in color, the swing seats are large and sturdy enough to be enjoyed by adults as well as children. The chains are coated in yellow plastic to keep young ones’ fingers from getting pinched. Squirrel Products recommends this swing for children ages 3 and up.

Features:

Dimensions	Swing seats—26.5″ W X 5.5″ D, Chains—66″ long
Weight Capacity	250 pounds
Safety Features	30″ of plastic coating on chains

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Makes a great replacement set for an existing swing set
• Durable construction
• Coated chains provide a comfortable grip

Cons

• Some shipping issues reported
• Swing seats may crack if exposed to extreme temperatures

FAQ

What’s the best swing set to buy? 

There’s no definitive answer to this question, as there are many quality products on the market. Which one you select depends on personal preference, as well as extenuating factors such as location, yard size, and the ages of the children who’ll be using it (see What should I look for when buying a swing set? below). Once you’ve narrowed down the field based on your personalized criteria, choosing the best swing set will be that much easier.

What should I look for when buying a swing set?

Here are some of the most important features to keep in mind while shopping:

Budget—Look for the highest possible quality, but at a price you can afford. If you’re expecting the kids to outgrow the unit in a year or two, it might be better to wait and save up for a better model.

Size—Make sure the unit will be able to fit inside the designated area. Measure the space beforehand, and take these dimensions into account while shopping.

Construction—The swing set should be made of durable, weather-resistant materials that won’t fade or weaken over time.

Age — How old are the children now, and will there be others in the near future? Look for a set that can accommodate a range of ages. You’ll be more likely to get your money’s worth.

Are backyard swing sets worth it?

Most buyers agree that backyard swing sets are indeed worth the cost. For one thing, there’s no need to shuttle children back and forth to the park or playground in order to keep them entertained.

In some cases—for example, during the widespread community lockdowns caused by the threat of the coronavirus in 2020—having a backyard play set can be a dream come true, for parents as well as kids. If you’ve purchased a quality product, you can expect to get a great return on your investment.

How long do wood playsets last?

Playsets constructed of cedar or other wood are designed to last for a long time. In fact, some might even last up to 20 years with the proper maintenance. Here are a few suggestions for extending the life of your wooden playset:

• Perform thorough inspections every six months or so to check for splintering or loose hardware. Make any necessary adjustments.
• Clean the playset periodically, using the outdoor hose and a mild soap.
• Apply a fresh coat of sealant every 1-2 years, and restrain the wood every 3 years.
• Immediately replace any loose or defective items.