Space-Saving Small Backyard Setup Ideas
So your backyard isn’t exactly the size of a footy field. Maybe it’s more of a courtyard, a sliver of grass, or a long, narrow side patch that currently houses a wheelie bin and a faded tricycle. But just because space is tight, doesn’t mean the fun has to be.
With the right setup, and a little outside-the-box thinking, you can turn even the tiniest yard into a kid-powered adventure zone. Climbing, swinging, flipping upside down... It's all possible, even when space is at a premium.
Here are our top small backyard setup ideas for families who want to make the most of what they’ve got, without compromising on fun.
1. Turn the Side Yard into a Secret Play Lane
That often-forgotten side passage next to the house? It’s got hidden potential. Think of it as a ready-made play lane.
Install a monkey bar frame like The Orangutan tight along the fence. Add a swing or a trapeze bar on one end and a combat ladder or cargo net on the other. You transform dead space into a full-blown obstacle course—without taking over your main lawn.
Plus, it keeps the action off the patio and away from the garden beds. Win-win.
2. Build a Corner Jungle
Corners are often tricky to decorate or landscape, but they’re perfect for play. The Lemur frame fits neatly into a corner and packs plenty of play into a small footprint.
Add a swing, a set of monkey bars, and a set of grips or Roman rings, and you’ve got a compact jungle gym that keeps the kids busy and the rest of your backyard open for entertaining, relaxing, or the occasional game of backyard cricket.
3. Go Up, Not Out
If floor space is limited, think vertical. Climbing frames and monkey bars create height and challenge without spreading out across the whole yard.
A frame like The Gorilla Plus Combat focuses on upper-body play, with bars, ladders, and grip holds that rise instead of sprawling out. It’s great for narrow yards, sloped spaces, or anywhere you want to keep the ground free but still offer plenty of movement and fun.
Vertical setups also feel less invasive visually, especially when placed along a fence or behind a garden bed.
4. Keep It Flexible for the Whole Family
In a small backyard, it helps if your play space can multitask. With Funky Monkey Bars, you can add accessories that work for both kids and adults.
A pull-up bar becomes part of a morning fitness circuit. Gym rings are just as fun for teens as they are for six-year-olds. Use a single swing frame for sensory swings, solo play, or a quiet spot to chill with a book. One setup, loads of use—and no wasted space.
5. Play Along the Fence Line
Installing your frame along a back or side fence helps keep the centre of your yard free for kicking a footy, hosting a barbie, or simply not tripping over stuff.
Frames like The Tamarin sit snug against a fence and still offer all the swinging, hanging, and climbing fun the kids crave. It keeps things tidy and makes the layout feel more intentional and integrated.
6. Blend It into the Backyard You Love
We know you want the backyard to look good and keep the kids happy. Thankfully, it doesn’t have to be one or the other.
Choose sleek frame colours like black or stainless steel to match your outdoor style. Use mulch, pebbles, or artificial turf underneath to create a clean, polished look. Add a few native plants nearby or pop it beside a raised garden bed for a natural blend between play and greenery.
It’s functional, fun, and easy on the eyes.
7. Start Small, Build Bigger
You don’t have to commit to a full jungle gym on day one. One of the best things about Funky Monkey Bars is that every frame is modular, so you can start small and add to it over time.
Begin with a simple monkey bar frame and a swing. As your kids grow (and their energy levels skyrocket), you can add ninja grips, a climbing net, a dip bar, or even a flying fox. Your backyard setup evolves with your family, your space, and your budget.
8. Choose a Compact Frame Made for Tight Spots
We’ve designed a whole range of compact frames that pack a lot of fun into a small footprint.
The Lemur, The Tamarin, The Orangutan—these aren’t just great names, they’re clever solutions for courtyards, duplexes, side yards, and smaller suburban blocks. We design each one to deliver maximum play in minimal space, without compromising on strength, safety, or style.
9. Use the Space Underneath
The area under your frame doesn’t have to sit empty. It’s perfect for a sandpit, a mud kitchen, a chalkboard wall, or even a soft space to spread a picnic rug.
Double the function, double the fun—and no extra room needed.
10. Keep it Simple (and Still Super Fun)
You don’t need an entire playground to keep the kids happy. A single swing, a few monkey bars, and room to hang upside down can go a long way.
Sometimes the simplest setups are the most used. It’s not about cramming everything in—it’s about choosing the right pieces for your space, your kids, and your lifestyle.
Why Funky Monkey Bars Work So Well for Small Spaces
We design for real Aussie backyards, the big ones, the awkward ones, and the blink-and-you-miss-it ones too. Every frame is modular, customisable, and built to handle the weather (and the wild).
We make everything right here in Australia, so you can count on gear that’s tough, tested, and built to last.
Ready to Bring Big Fun to Your Small Backyard?
Plan cleverly, choose the right setup, and install a frame that fits; transform your backyard into a hub of fun, movement, and imagination. Whether you’ve got 3 metres to play with or 10, there’s a Funky Monkey Bars solution that’ll fit like a glove.
Explore our collection, or get in touch with our team, we’ll help you design a setup that’s just right for your family and your space.
Because big fun can absolutely happen in small spaces.