Best Backyard Playsets for Kids in 2023

If you’re looking for a way to keep your kids entertained and active during the summer months, a backyard playset might be just the thing you need. Not only do playsets provide hours of fun, but they also promote physical activity and help develop important motor skills.

When it comes to choosing the best backyard playset, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of your backyard and the available space for the playset. You’ll want to make sure there’s enough room for the playset and for kids to move around safely. Second, think about the age range of your children and choose a playset that’s appropriate for their age and skill level. Finally, consider the materials used in the construction of the playset to ensure it’s safe and durable.

After researching and testing various backyard playsets, we’ve identified the top picks for the best backyard playsets. These playsets offer a range of features from slides and swings to climbing walls and monkey bars. With these playsets, your kids will have a blast all summer long while staying active and engaged.

Best Backyard Playsets

If you’re looking for a way to keep your kids entertained and active during the summer months, a backyard playset is a great investment. Not only will it provide hours of fun, but it also encourages outdoor play and exercise. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your family. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best backyard playsets available, so you can make an informed decision and create a fun and safe play area for your kids.

UNICOO – Toddler Slide and Swing Set

UNICOO - Toddler Slide and Swing Set

If you are looking for an all-in-one backyard playset for your toddler, the UNICOO Toddler Slide and Swing Set is worth considering.

Pros

  • The set offers 8 functions suitable for indoor and outdoor backyard use, including a gentle slop slide, sturdy swing, easy-to-climb steps, adjustable basketball hoop, soccer goals, baseball rack, kids table, and ring toss game.
  • The set is made of high-quality, durable HDPE raw material and has passed ASTM and CPC certification, ensuring safety for your child.
  • The swing has a maximum weight capacity of 66lbs and is height adjustable.

Cons

  • The soccer net is too small for the space it’s meant to fit.
  • The swing set may not be as sturdy as some parents would like it to be.
  • The swing may be too small for older children.

The UNICOO Toddler Slide and Swing Set is easy to assemble and provides a never-ending adventure for your little ones. The climbing ladder provides a safe and easy challenge for children. The set’s bright and colorful design is sure to capture your toddler’s attention and inspire imaginative play.

Overall, if you are looking for a versatile and safe backyard playset for your toddler, the UNICOO Toddler Slide and Swing Set is a solid choice.

KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set/Playset with Swings, Slide, Rock Wall, Chalkwall, Clubhouse and Sandbox

KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set/Playset with Swings, Slide, Rock Wall, Chalkwall, Clubhouse and Sandbox

If you’re looking for a compact and fun backyard playset, the KidKraft Appleton Wooden Swing Set/Playset is a great option.

Pros

  • The high-rail wave slide is a big hit with kids and provides tons of giggles as they slide down to the ground.
  • The beginning-level climbing rock wall is a great way to build confidence in kids.
  • The covered deck provides a shaded, extra spot to play and draw on the vinyl chalkwall.

Cons

  • The assembly can be challenging and may take up to 8 hours to complete.
  • The swings may sink down pretty low even on the highest setting, causing toddlers’ feet to drag.
  • The tie downs are short stakes, which may not be suitable for all types of soil.

The KidKraft Appleton Swing Set is perfect for small spaces and can accommodate up to six children from ages 3-10. The adventure begins with the exhilarating high-rail wave slide, and continues with a quick scramble up the rock wall ladder to the shade of the gable-roofed upper deck.

The sandbox provides plenty of fresh air activity for kids to dig and play. Adults will appreciate the high-quality, 100% premium wood construction and ease of assembly.

Overall, the KidKraft Appleton Swing Set is a great investment for parents who want to provide their kids with a fun and safe outdoor play experience.

UNICOO – Toddler Slide and Swing Set

UNICOO - Toddler Slide and Swing Set

If you’re looking for a safe and fun playground set for your little ones, then the UNICOO – Toddler Slide and Swing Set might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

  • Passed ASTM and CPC certification for safety
  • Height adjustable swing and 67-inch long slide
  • 8-in-1 multifunction playground

Cons

  • Some missing parts reported by customers
  • Swing buckle doesn’t stay in place
  • Instructions could be more clear

This playground set is made of high-quality, durable HDPE material and features a stable triangle design with a reinforced wide base. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use and can be filled with water or sand to provide extra stability. The integrated swing and smooth edges ensure the safety of children during play.

The set offers a 67-inch long slide that is easy to climb and provides a gentle slope for kids to enjoy. The height of the swing can be adjusted to suit your child’s needs, and the maximum weight capacity is 66lbs. The playground set also offers 8 functions, including a basketball hoop, soccer goals, baseball rack, toddler desk, and ring toss game, all sized for toddlers.

Assembly is quick and easy, and all necessary hardware is included, so you don’t need complicated tools. The climbing ladder provides a safe and easy challenge for children.

In summary, the UNICOO – Toddler Slide and Swing Set is a safe and fun playground set that offers many activities for your little ones. If you’re looking for a quality playground set, this might be the perfect choice for you and your family.

Backyard Discovery Briarcliff All Cedar Wooden Swing Set

Backyard Discovery Briarcliff All Cedar Wooden Swing Set

If you’re looking for a fun and safe backyard playset for your kids, the Backyard Discovery Briarcliff All Cedar Wooden Swing Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • The sturdy A-frame structure provides added stability.
  • The 8-foot super speedy slide and two belt swings with coated chains offer hours of fun for kids aged 3-6 years old.
  • The covered upper deck with colorful canopy offers UV ray protection and serves as a great space for imaginative play.

Cons

  • Assembly can take some time and effort, so be prepared to spend a few hours putting it together.
  • The swing set is on the smaller side, so it may not be ideal for larger families or older kids.
  • Some customers have reported issues with missing or damaged parts upon delivery.

Overall, the Backyard Discovery Briarcliff All Cedar Wooden Swing Set is a great starter swing set for younger kids. The rock wall ladder combination is challenging and helps improve coordination, while the reinforced steel support brackets provide added safety and stability. The set is easy to assemble with the step-by-step interactive BILT App and comes with a 5-Year Limited Warranty. If you’re looking for a safe and entertaining frolic right in your own backyard, this wooden swing set is definitely worth considering.

Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley All Cedar Wood Swing Set

Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley All Cedar Wood Swing Set

If you are looking for a backyard playset that offers unique features and looks great, the Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley All Cedar Wood Swing Set is a great choice.

Pros

  • The full-width double rock wall with climbing rope and 9 climbing rocks offer plenty of space for up to 2 children to use at the same time.
  • The 6.5 ft rope ladder extends higher than normal rope ladders, making it a fun way to get kids to stay fit.
  • The large open-air canopy fort allows for up to 6 kids and includes a car wheel and telescope playscape.

Cons

  • Some places did not have predrilled holes like they should have, making assembly more difficult.
  • It needs to be waterproofed every year, which can be time-consuming.
  • There are a lot of parts to this playset, so it may take a while to assemble.

The Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley All Cedar Wood Swing Set is perfect for all aspiring climbers, offering loads of fun in a compact footprint that is perfect for any size yard. The swing set is made of 100% Cedar wood and is pre-cut, pre-drilled, and pre-stained to create an easier assembly experience.

The playset offers 3 unique climbing features, including the full-width double rock wall with climbing rope and 9 climbing rocks, 6.5 ft rope ladder, and easy-to-climb flat step ladder, allowing kids of all abilities to safely test their climbing skills. The large, breezy upper fort can cater to several children with a 16 sq. ft. wooden deck that includes a high-performance steering wheel and a pretend telescope.

The Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley All Cedar Wood Swing Set also includes all the standard features you want in an outdoor playset, such as an 8 ft. wave slide and 3 position swing beam complete with 2-26 inch heavy-duty belt swings and a suspended trapeze bar. The open-air lower fort gives you the option to create a personal sandbox.

Backyard Discovery has been offering ready-to-assemble outdoor play and patio structures for over 35 years, bringing joy to children and adults from their swing sets and playhouses to wooden and metal pergolas, cabanas, and gazebos. The playset comes with a flat step ladder that provides a safe and easy entry point for all kids with all abilities. The wave slide has higher rails than the competitors, providing additional safety while sliding all the way down.

In conclusion, the Backyard Discovery Mount McKinley All Cedar Wood Swing Set is a great investment for parents looking for a fun and safe outdoor playset for their children.

Backyard Discovery Tanglewood All Cedar Wood Playset Swing Set

Backyard Discovery Tanglewood All Cedar Wood Playset Swing Set

If you’re looking for a high-quality backyard playset that will last for years, the Backyard Discovery Tanglewood All Cedar Wood Playset Swing Set is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • The Tanglewood has all the essentials for an ultimate outdoor playground experience for your kids.
  • The cedar wood is durable and rot-resistant, making it able to withstand many weather conditions.
  • The cottage-like design of the Tanglewood allows your kids to play and pretend like they are in their own little home.

Cons

  • The Tanglewood is ideal for ages 5-8, so it may not be suitable for older children.
  • Some of the lumber may be bowed, which can make assembly a bit more challenging.
  • Assembly can take some time, so be prepared to spend a few days putting it together.

The Backyard Discovery Tanglewood All Cedar Wood Playset Swing Set is an excellent investment for parents who want a high-quality, long-lasting backyard playset for their kids. The Tanglewood has all the essentials for an ultimate outdoor playground experience, including an upper and lower fort cottage design, snack stand, coated rope swings, acrobat bar, rock climbing wall, and an 8ft super speedy slide. The cottage-like design of the Tanglewood allows your kids to play and pretend like they are in their own little home, with a covered snack stand and built-in bench providing safe haven and well-deserved R&R.

The cedar wood is durable and rot-resistant, making it able to withstand many weather conditions. The Tanglewood is engineered to meet or exceed ASTM standards, ensuring that it is safe for your kids to use. The Tanglewood comes with a 5-year warranty, so you can rest assured that your investment is protected.

Assembly can take some time, so be prepared to spend a few days putting it together. Some of the lumber may be bowed, which can make assembly a bit more challenging. The Tanglewood is ideal for ages 5-8, so it may not be suitable for older children. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality backyard playset that will provide your kids with hours of fun and entertainment, the Backyard Discovery Tanglewood All Cedar Wood Playset Swing Set is an excellent choice.

Avenlur Juniper Outdoor and Indoor Playset

Avenlur Juniper Outdoor and Indoor Playset

If you’re looking for a versatile and durable playset for your little ones, the Avenlur Juniper Outdoor and Indoor Playset is a great option.

Pros

  • 5-in-1 functionality for ultimate outdoor and indoor play experience
  • Easy assembly and storage for convenience
  • Made with premium quality pinewood and certified safe for children

Cons

  • The slide has a small drop, which may cause discomfort for some children
  • The entire structure moves back and forth when someone is swinging
  • Assembly can be a bit time-consuming, especially for one person

This playset is designed for children aged 18 months to 5 years and includes an interchangeable baby/toddler swing, a smooth slide, a non-slip ladder, and a rock-climbing wall. The set grows with your child, allowing you to switch between the infant/baby swing and the toddler/child swing as they grow.

Assembly is hassle-free, and the playset can be easily folded and stored when not in use. The Juniper is made with 100% pinewood, a high-quality industrial-grade wood designed to withstand outdoor elements. It has an additional coat of varnish and rust-free hardware, making it robust, sturdy, and built to last for years.

Safety is a top priority for Avenlur, and the Juniper is regularly quality checked in production and certified in safety and composition. The set is also made with non-toxic paints and sealants, and every corner is smooth and free of burrs to prevent children from being injured.

Overall, the Avenlur Juniper Outdoor and Indoor Playset is a great investment for families looking for a versatile and durable playset that will provide hours of fun for their little ones.

TKK High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing Seat

TKK High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing Seat

If you’re looking for a safe and fun swing set accessory for your little one, the TKK High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing Seat is a great choice.

Pros

  • ASTM certified for safety
  • Durable and high-quality materials
  • Suitable for infants, toddlers, and kids up to 36 months

Cons

  • Only compatible with a single seat
  • May require additional hardware for installation
  • Chain may need to be adjusted for height

This swing seat is made of highly durable plastic and features zinc-plated hardware for long-lasting use. It’s also ASTM certified for safety, making it a great choice for parents who want to ensure their child’s well-being.

One of the best things about this swing seat is that it’s suitable for infants, toddlers, and kids up to 36 months, so your child can enjoy it for years to come. Playing on the jungle gym or swing set is one of the most popular activities for kids, and with the TKK High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing Seat, even the littlest ones can join in on the fun.

While the swing seat is easy to install, you may need additional hardware depending on your swing set’s configuration. Additionally, the chain may need to be adjusted for height, which can be a bit of a hassle. However, once it’s set up, your child will love swinging back and forth on this sturdy and comfortable seat.

Overall, if you’re looking for a safe and durable swing set accessory for your little one, the TKK High Back Full Bucket Toddler Swing Seat is definitely worth considering.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best backyard playset for your family, there are several factors to consider. Here are some features to look for:

Size and Space

Consider the size of your backyard and the available space for the playset. Measure the area and ensure that the playset will fit comfortably. Also, make sure that there is enough space around the playset for children to play safely.

Materials

The materials used to construct the playset are also important. Look for playsets made from durable materials such as wood or metal. These materials are sturdy and can withstand the elements. Avoid playsets made from cheap plastic as they may not last long.

Safety Features

Safety should be a top priority when choosing a backyard playset. Look for playsets with safety features such as non-slip surfaces, sturdy handrails, and safety nets. Also, ensure that the playset meets safety standards set by organizations such as ASTM and CPSC.

Features and Accessories

Consider the features and accessories included with the playset. Look for playsets with swings, slides, and climbing walls. These features provide hours of fun for children. Also, consider accessories such as canopies or umbrellas that provide shade during hot summer days.

Maintenance

Finally, consider the maintenance required for the playset. Look for playsets that are easy to clean and maintain. Also, ensure that the playset comes with a warranty that covers any defects or damage.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best backyard playset for your family that provides hours of fun and entertainment.