Designing a personalized backyard playground might sound intimidating at first, but we found it surprisingly manageable—and incredibly rewarding.
This DIY project not only gave us a unique structure tailored to our garden but also allowed us to create a space our kids can grow into for years to come. Let’s walk through exactly how we made it happen.
Why This Playground Plan Works
- Includes a main cabin big enough for adults
- Features a future-ready second floor
- Equipped with a swing and a slide
- Entire structure is scalable for future additions
- Designed with budget-friendly materials
- Built for durability with weather-resistant wood
- Constructed using simple tools and hardware
- CAD-designed for precision and adjustability
What You Will Need
Wood: Impregnated pine
9x9cm posts (~55m)
7x7cm posts (~100m)
14.5×2.8cm planks (~110m for floors)
14×1.6cm planks (~90m for walls)
Hardware:
Galvanized steel anchors (70cm high)
Quick-set concrete (for swing posts)
Steel squares (4x6x6cm), M8 bolts and screws
Tools:
Miter saw
Power drill
Clamps and ratchet straps
Step 1. Create the Main Structure
We built the entire playground on stilts using 9x9cm vertical posts and 7x7cm horizontal joists. Though square joists aren’t standard, they were easier to source and cheaper than rectangular alternatives. The structure doesn’t touch the ground directly to prevent rot, even though we used class 4 wood.
We anchored the vertical posts using galvanized steel supports, sunk into the ground. The four swing posts were stabilized with quick-set concrete. A grid system made from string helped us space the anchors, but we adjusted for inaccuracies using the wood’s natural flexibility.
Step 2. Attach the Joists
This step took the most planning. Instead of using traditional wood joinery (which would require professional tools), we opted for sturdy steel squares to connect the joists to the posts.
Each steel square was screwed into the vertical studs and secured to the joists with M8 bolts and locking nuts.
Where joists intersected, we simply screwed them into place. This method kept things simple, strong, and beginner-friendly.
Step 3. Add Triangular Supports
To prevent shifting and create stability, we reinforced the frame with diagonal wooden braces—roughly 45cm long, cut at 45-degree angles.
These were clamped and screwed in using support scraps from angled cuts.
We used plenty of them—probably more than necessary—but it improved aesthetics and gave us peace of mind.
Using ratchet straps and anchor points helped straighten everything before locking it into place.
Step 4. Install Floor and Wall Panels
We laid floorboards and wall planks over the joists and vertical posts. Because we worked during a damp season, the planks were swollen, allowing us to install them tightly without worrying much about expansion gaps.
If you’re building in summer, leave expansion space, as the boards can shrink 5–10% in dry weather. For natural light, we installed a polycarbonate panel in place of a few wall planks—it gave the cabin a modern and functional touch.
We also framed out a second floor that can be accessed in the future with a ladder (still undecided between rope or wooden rungs). Until then, the opening is sealed with a removable manhole cover built from floorboard scraps.
Step 5. Build the Swing
The swing was crafted entirely from 9x9cm posts for maximum strength. The side supports form a triangle, and we used purpose-built metal ties from a specialty store—they were more affordable than fabricating our own.
The crossbar sits 240cm high, which matches public standards for swing sets and allows for typical swing ropes. We anchored the triangle legs with smaller steel brackets that required less precision in digging.
One minor hiccup—our stair design didn’t quite align. Instead of redoing the steps, we added an extra board to reduce the step height. Not perfect, but it works for now!
Step 6. Add the Slide
We installed a slide measuring 120cm high and 250cm long.
Access is provided by a climbing wall on the side, and we plan to add a rope ladder in the future for additional fun and challenge.
Step 7. Finishing Touches
This playground is a work in progress and will evolve as the kids grow. We used chalk and water-based paint for some playful customizations. Strings fill small gaps around the slide platform without darkening the area.
Inside the cabin, we added a hammock for naps and a small table and chairs for snack time on the balcony. These little additions really bring the whole structure to life.
Note: Always double-check your measurements and anchoring before finalizing. Small misalignments can usually be corrected with flexibility in the wood or extra bracing.
Other Details Display
- Base height from ground: Adjustable via post length
- Anchoring method: Galvanized steel supports + quick-set concrete
- Slide dimensions: 120cm height, 250cm length
- Swing height: 240cm
- Swing triangle angle: Custom-calculated using trigonometry
- Wall material: 14×1.6cm pine planks
- Roof not included: Can be added as an upgrade
- Lighting window: Polycarbonate insert
- Optional extras: Rope ladder, monkey bridge, hammock, balcony furniture
Summary
This DIY backyard playground is a scalable, sturdy, and stylish addition to any family garden.
With basic tools and a bit of planning, we created a safe, functional, and fun space for our kids to enjoy—now and as they grow.
If you’re searching for the perfect backyard playground plan, this one is worth building on.
This plan is a contribution by [njambe]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.
