Beyond Bouncing: Discover 25 Cool Things to Do With a Trampoline

Trampolines aren't just for bouncing around anymore. If you have one in your backyard, you've probably wondered what else you can do with it. Turns out, there are tons of cool things to do with a trampoline that go way beyond just jumping. Whether you're looking for a new way to relax, play games, or hang out with friends, your trampoline can be the center of it all. Here are some fun ways to get the most out of your trampoline this season.

Key Takeaways

• Trampolines can be used for more than just bouncing—think movie nights, outdoor sleepovers, and art projects.
• Adding a projector or stringing up lights turns your trampoline into a cozy backyard theater.
• Throwing a tent or sleeping bags on the trampoline makes for a comfy and fun sleepover spot.
• Simple items like sidewalk chalk, balloons, or glow sticks can make trampoline time even more exciting.
• Mixing in water toys, sports gear, or even yoga mats keeps things fresh and fun for everyone.

1. Projector

Transform your trampoline into the ultimate backyard movie theater with just a simple projector setup. There's nothing quite like watching your favorite film outdoors while lying back on the soft trampoline mat.

Here’s a quick way to set it up:

1. Hang a white sheet or light-colored curtain on the side of the trampoline netting or nearby fence. Make sure it's pulled tight to avoid wrinkles in your screen.
2. Place your projector at the right distance for a clear focus—the further back, the larger the screen, but check your projector specs.
3. Grab an extension cord and connect your laptop or streaming device to the projector.
4. Pile up some blankets and pillows on the trampoline for the coziest seating; don’t forget snacks.
5. Wait until dusk so the picture glows, then hit play!

• Easy setup with minimal equipment
• Great for family movie night, date night, or kids’ sleepovers
• Comfortable lounge seating that can fit a crowd

This setup always ends up being the highlight of summer for my family—just being together in the yard under the night sky, and somehow the movies feel so much more special when you’re outside. The occasional firefly or cool breeze doesn’t hurt, either.

2. Tent

There’s something special about turning your trampoline into a tented hangout—it's a straightforward way to make outdoor nights unforgettable. Whether you use a store-bought tent made for your trampoline or just drape a tarp or blanket over your net enclosure, you’ll have an instant backyard escape.

Here’s how to pull it off:

1. Clear off any toys and sweep the trampoline clean so it’s ready.
2. Bring out your tent or choose big sheets and blankets, securing corners with clamps, bungee cords, or even shoes if you must.
3. Fill it up with cozy stuff: sleeping bags, cushions, string lights, snacks, and a flashlight.

Suddenly, you’ve created a hidden fort for daytime fun or a place for backyard camping at night. Some people even go all out and add a trampoline clubhouse with walls and a roof for added privacy and comfort, just like a 15-foot trampoline clubhouse transforms a trampoline into an enclosed outdoor space.

Spending the night on a trampoline—hearing the wind in the trees, feeling the mat give a little, and staring up at the stars through a tent flap—has a way of making everyone feel like a kid again. It’s not just a place to sleep; it’s a great way to spark stories and laughs with family or friends.

A few practical notes:

• Don’t forget to check the weather beforehand.
• Keep bug spray handy just in case.
• Takedown is a snap—just pull the blankets and clips, and you’re bouncing again.

Turning your trampoline into a tent is proof you don’t need to leave your yard to have an adventure. It might even become your new favorite summer tradition.

3. Sleeping Bags

Forget indoor sleepovers—take them outside with your trampoline and a couple of sleeping bags. Laying out sleeping bags on the trampoline turns it into the most comfortable outdoor bed you could imagine. The soft surface and gentle bounce make it surprisingly cozy, and you get a clear view of the stars above if the weather is good. Even the small squeaks from the trampoline springs become part of the experience.

If you want to try this, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Check for dew or moisture—sometimes that bouncy surface gets damp overnight and nobody likes a soggy sleeping bag.
• Bring extra blankets or a thick pad for more comfort, especially if you have an older trampoline.
• Bug spray or a zip-up mesh tent over the trampoline can help save the night from unwelcome critters.

Spending the night on the trampoline gives you that backyard camping vibe without the hassle of tents or rocky ground. It feels a bit adventurous, especially for kids, and there’s something fun about slowly bouncing around as you roll over to get comfy.

Chilling in a sleeping bag on the trampoline is honestly much better than I expected—between the quiet backyard, cool air, and soft bouncing, it's hard not to fall asleep quickly.

4. Sidewalk Chalk

Drawing with sidewalk chalk on your trampoline isn't just a rainy-day backup—it turns the whole surface into a creative playground. The trampoline mat becomes a giant canvas, perfect for all sorts of artistic ideas and active games like hopscotch, twister, or even giant murals. Kids can stretch out, move around, and make large hand and arm movements, which is actually a fun way to practice gross motor skills and spark their imagination—just like how sidewalk chalk murals help develop creativity and skill.

If you're giving this a shot, here are three ways to get started:

• Draw a classic hopscotch board on the mat; take turns making up the rules for each round.
• Mark out shapes and patterns, then challenge each other to jump, spin, or balance on them.
• Work as a team to cover the entire surface with one big picture—your own backyard masterpiece.

There’s something about scribbling, doodling, and laughing outside on a trampoline that you just don’t get with a paper and pencil at the table. Chalk art is easy to clean up—one round of bouncing, or just wait for a light rain, and you’ll have a blank slate for your next creation.

5. Sprinkler

On a really hot day, bringing a sprinkler into the trampoline mix totally changes up the fun. The simple act of turning on a sprinkler under or beside the trampoline can turn the entire thing into a bouncy splash zone. You don’t need any fancy setup; just lay a regular garden sprinkler below the mat, crank the water, and suddenly you’ve got an at-home water park.

Here are some ways you can get creative:

• Put the sprinkler underneath for steady drips coming through the mat as you jump
• Place it off to the side for an arcing spray that soaks the surface (and everyone on it)
• Try different types of sprinklers—rotating, spray sticks, or misting hoses—for unique splash effects

Safety does matter, though, so keep an eye on extra slippery spots. Bathing suits and a lot of sunscreen are basically required! I’ve seen my kids playing with friends for ages this way, laughing nonstop while they bounce and get drenched at the same time.

Even on the hottest afternoons, a little water and a trampoline make summer feel a lot less sticky and way more fun for everyone involved.

6. Yoga Mat

Yoga on a trampoline is something most people don’t think of, but it’s honestly worth a try. The gentle, flexible surface makes it easier on your joints, which makes stretching and holding poses way more comfortable than on the floor. It becomes a surprisingly soothing spot for morning or evening routines. No more digging your elbows into a hard mat!

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are a few ideas for a trampoline yoga session:

• Try simple moves like child’s pose, cat-cow, or even seated meditation to start.
• Gentle bouncing can help warm up your muscles before getting into deeper stretches.
• Use the trampoline for balance training – standing poses get a new twist with the shifting surface.

When you practice on a trampoline, it turns everyday yoga into an adventure. The little wobbles force you to focus, and the quiet outside adds something you can’t get in a studio.

No need for a fancy mat—just hop on and start moving. You might not hit every pose perfectly, but that’s part of the fun.

7. Pillows

Adding pillows to a trampoline instantly transforms it from a simple bouncer to a cozy hangout spot. Throwing a bunch of soft pillows onto the trampoline surface turns it into a giant outdoor cushion—perfect for lazy afternoons, reading sessions, or just cloud watching. If you’ve never tried it, you’re seriously missing out. The springiness of the trampoline paired with a pile of pillows makes for a ridiculously comfy nook that beats any lawn chair.

Here are some ways to try out the pillow pile trampoline:

• Make a reading den: Grab a few pillows, a blanket, and your favorite book. Settle in for an outdoor reading hour.
• Chill zone: On warm evenings, bring out some snacks and pillows and just sprawl out with friends or family.
• Picnic pad: Stack your pillows, throw down a tray of treats, and now you’ve got a soft, relaxing space to snack and chat.

Lying out under the sky, with nothing but soft pillows under your back and the world above you, makes everything just a little simpler and sweeter.

Just a quick tip: when you’re done, bring any pillows inside or stash them away so they don’t get soggy—or covered in leaves. This simple touch can turn your trampoline into everyone’s favorite outdoor lounge spot.

8. Balloons

Adding balloons to your trampoline routine is a simple way to turn casual bouncing into a real event. Toss a bunch of balloons on the trampoline and suddenly you've got a floating, colorful sea that makes every jump more fun. It's not just for birthdays—not even close. Balloons bring out that giddy feeling in everyone, no occasion needed.

Here are a few ways people get creative with trampoline balloons:

• Fill the whole mat with balloons so they bounce with you. Try counting how many you can keep floating at once.
• Use balloons for games like “hot potato,” passing them while jumping, careful not to let any touch the ground.
• Hide tiny prizes or glow sticks inside the balloons for a treasure hunt when the sun goes down.

Balloons on the trampoline make every bounce feel like a celebration, even if it’s just you and a handful of balloons on a regular weekday.

Safety tip: Always use latex or lightweight balloons instead of water or heavy ones, and keep an eye on kids to avoid tripping or slipping when balloons pile up near their feet. Trust me, one popped balloon will send everyone into giggles—and maybe a mild heart attack if you weren't expecting it.

9. Jump Rope

Jump rope on a trampoline? Absolutely. The extra bounce takes a classic playground activity and makes it far more interesting (and unpredictable). On the trampoline, the rope glides faster and your jumps stretch higher, so it's a real challenge even for folks who think they've mastered basic skipping. It's perfect for all ages, whether you're looking to spice up your workout or just want a good laugh with friends.

Here's how to get started with a jump rope on your trampoline:

1. Use a soft rope for safety—no heavy handles or wires.
2. Keep enough distance from the trampoline edge to avoid awkward tangles.
3. Try solo jump routines first, then add more people for group skipping games.

You can even switch it up by making the rope move in a snake-like pattern while someone jumps, or by counting tricky footwork sequences. For more inspiration, check out some engaging jump rope routines—they're a great way to make your trampoline time more fun and boost coordination.

The first time I tried this with my nephew, I thought we'd get through five jumps before he tripped, but somehow we made it past thirty. Turns out, a trampoline adds just the right mix of chaos and hilarity to a simple jump rope.

10. Glow Sticks

Bringing glow sticks onto the trampoline instantly changes the atmosphere, turning regular evening jumps into something special. Once the sun sets, you crack a handful of vibrant glow sticks and toss them across the trampoline mat—the whole place lights up like a private light show.

If you've got a pack of glow sticks lying around, here are a few ways to use them for trampoline fun:

• Scatter glow sticks across the trampoline and play tag or simple jumping games, trying not to step on the glowing trails.
• Make glow stick bracelets or necklaces for each person, then play a game of freeze dance to music.
• Stuff glow sticks into balloons and watch them bounce and glow everywhere while you jump.

When you mix glow sticks with a trampoline, you don’t just get games. Suddenly, kids and adults are giggling in the dark, inventing silly new rules, and making up their own light dances. The routine changes completely—there’s a rush of excitement simply because everything glows and shadows bounce around in weird ways.

If you've never tried a glow-in-the-dark trampoline night, you’re missing out. It’s a cheap, easy way to make regular family time feel like a mini-celebration.

11. Basketball Hoop

Who says trampolines are just for bouncing? Adding a basketball hoop completely changes the game. You can get hoops specifically designed to attach to the safety enclosure of many trampolines, turning your backyard into a mini-arena. It's a fantastic way to get some exercise and friendly competition going.

Playing basketball on a trampoline adds a whole new level of fun. Imagine trying to sink a shot while you're already bouncing! It's a great challenge for coordination and accuracy. You can play classic games like H.O.R.S.E. or Around The World, or just set up a target and see who can make the most shots.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• One-on-One: Grab a friend and play a quick game. The bouncing makes defense and offense pretty interesting!
• H.O.R.S.E.: This is a classic for a reason. One person makes a shot, and the other has to copy it. Miss, and you get a letter. First to spell H.O.R.S.E. loses.
• Target Practice: Set up a bucket or a hoop off to the side and see how many shots you can make in a row while bouncing.

These hoops are usually pretty easy to install, and they can make your trampoline a central hub for active play. You can find trampolines with integrated basketball hoops in various sizes, like 12-foot and 14-foot models, often featuring an adjustable hoop for different skill levels. It’s a simple addition that brings a ton of replayability to your outdoor setup. Check out some options for a trampoline basketball hoop to get started.

Remember to always supervise children when they are playing on the trampoline, especially when adding accessories like a basketball hoop. Ensure the hoop is securely attached and that players are aware of their surroundings to avoid any accidental bumps or falls.

12. Beach Ball

A trampoline and a beach ball together are a recipe for wild, unpredictable fun. Rolling a huge beach ball onto the trampoline transforms the entire experience—no one knows where it will bounce next! The unpredictability keeps everyone on their toes and the laughter going nonstop. Here are some awesome beach ball games you can try the next time you roll one onto your trampoline:

• Keep It Up: See how long the group can keep the ball from hitting the mat using only hands, feet, or even your head. Record your best streak!
• Beach Ball Dodge: Everyone jumps and tries to avoid the ball as it's bounced or tossed around. If it touches you, you’re out (or switch roles).
• Racing Ball: Set a timer and have each person attempt to run a full circle around the ball without knocking it over or touching it. Sounds easy, but on the trampoline, good luck keeping a straight path.

The best part about beach balls on the trampoline is how even the grown-ups want to join in. You might start off just supervising, but pretty soon you’re the one trying not to laugh as you crash into your own kids. You can make up your own rules, use more than one ball, or turn it into a wild group challenge. There’s no wrong way to play.

If you’re wondering what kind of beach ball to use, go for a lightweight jumbo one for the wildest bounces. Make sure everyone’s aware of their balance—those big bounces go every which way, and it’s easy to lose your footing if you’re not careful. But when it comes to bringing out goofy teamwork and total chaos, nothing beats beach ball games on a trampoline.

13. Hopper Ball

A hopper ball on a trampoline takes your regular bouncing and cranks it up another notch. The soft, bouncy surface makes it easy to bounce higher safely, and adding a hopper ball means you get the challenge of coordination and control. Kids don’t just bounce—they try to steer, race, and even compete in little challenges with friends or siblings.

Here are a few easy ways to enjoy hopper balls on your trampoline:

• Set up a friendly race from one end to the other (watch out for the net!).
• Try a balance contest—who can stay on the hopper ball the longest without tipping?
• Invent your own obstacle course using pillows, soft toys, or a beach ball as markers to bounce around.

If you give this a try, be prepared for a lot of giggling, a few tumbles, and maybe a bit of friendly competition. Hopper balls turn a regular trampoline day into something unforgettable, especially when everyone gets a turn.

Sometimes, the simplest toys—combined with a little creativity—make for the best afternoons in the backyard.

14. Water Balloons

There’s just something about water balloons on a trampoline that feels extra fun—maybe it’s the bounciness, maybe it’s the fact that everyone ends up soaked and laughing. Turning your trampoline into a splash zone takes almost no setup and guarantees a good time.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Change into swimwear or clothes you don’t mind getting wet.
• Fill up a big bucket of water balloons (go for the self-sealing kind if you want to save time).
• Toss them onto the trampoline and let the chaos begin—kids can throw them, stomp them, or play games like tag or dodgeball using the balloons.

Want to boost the excitement? Try games like “Bombs Away,” where people outside the trampoline toss water balloons and everyone inside tries to dodge them. It’s a hit with bigger kids—and grown-ups too. Learn more about wild trampoline games in this guide to ‘Bombs Away’ and other fun trampoline activities.

Water balloon days are often the most remembered ones of summer. The mess is real, but so is the fun—it’s worth every splash.

15. Chinese Jump Rope

Remember those stretchy elastic ropes you used to loop around your ankles? You can bring that classic game right onto the trampoline! It's a fun way to challenge coordination and balance.

Here's how to set it up:

• Stretch the ropes: Lay a few Chinese jump ropes across the trampoline mat. You can arrange them in different patterns or just stretch them taut from one side to the other.
• Choose your player: One person steps onto the trampoline to be the jumper.
• Start the rhythm: The jumper follows a pattern, like "in, out, side, side," while chanting the steps. You can also have someone off the trampoline call out random sequences for the jumper to follow.

This game is great because you can easily adjust the difficulty. Make the rope patterns more complex or have the caller speed up the instructions. It's a fantastic way to get kids moving and thinking at the same time.

This activity is a neat twist on a familiar game, turning the trampoline into a giant, bouncy playground for a classic challenge. It requires focus and quick feet, making it more than just a simple bounce.

16. Velcro Balls

Velcro balls bring a surprising amount of fun to trampolines, especially if you like mixing a little friendly competition with bouncing. Basically, you toss soft, Velcro-covered balls and try to get them to stick to a vest or even a homemade target taped up on the enclosure. It sounds simple, but suddenly you’re dodging, leaping, laughing, and stretching in mid-air to make a catch or avoid being tagged.

Here are some ways to use Velcro balls on your trampoline:

• Put on Velcro vests (you can buy a set or make your own with old clothes and a strip of Velcro) and play a game of tag—if a ball sticks to you, you’re it.
• Set up targets on the trampoline net, and see who can hit the most with the balls while bouncing.
• Play a relay where each person must jump, stick a Velcro ball to a certain spot, and then tag the next person.

There’s something about the way these balls stick that makes everyone laugh, and the random bounces keep the game fresh every time you play. It doesn’t matter how old you are—Velcro tag on a trampoline is practically guaranteed to get even the most stubborn teens and adults moving.

17. Hose

Who knew grabbing the garden hose could bring new life to your trampoline? A simple hose turns your trampoline into a splash zone, slip 'n slide, or even a cleaning party. There's something almost magical about mixing water play with bouncing. Kids will find dozens of ways to use a hose on the trampoline, and honestly, adults might join in too.

Here are a few ideas for using a hose with your trampoline:

• String the hose along the safety net and poke little holes for a homemade trampoline sprinkler.
• Turn on the water and do a full trampoline wash—just add a bucket, some soap, and let the kids scrub (or skate around on the suds!)
• Try simple games like "run from the spray" or bring out sponges to soak and toss while bouncing.

Adding water isn’t just fun—on hot days, it’s a game changer, making outside time last way longer than usual.

If you’re looking for more structured play, check out the quick table below for activity ideas and what you’ll need:

Honestly, you never know what’ll happen when you add water, but you can bet everyone ends up laughing, soaked, and a lot less bored.

18. Softball

Grab a softball and you’ll quickly find there’s a whole new way to play on your trampoline. Whether you’re tossing it with someone standing outside the net or inventing games as you go, adding a ball changes things up fast. Trampolines add a surprising twist to simple games you already know, making everything just a bit more unpredictable.

Here are a few fun ways to use a softball on a trampoline:

• Have one person outside the trampoline and one inside, tossing the ball back and forth—simple, but the bounce keeps you on your toes.
• Play a friendly game of four corners or “keep away” where you try to avoid being tagged (or hit) by the rolling ball.
• Try airborne hot potato: jump and toss the ball back and forth, but don’t be the one holding it when a timer or music stops.

Using a trampoline for ball games is always more about laughter than points—it’s wild, unpredictable, and gets everyone moving.

19. Volleyball

Trampoline volleyball is a game-changer if you want to shake up the usual backyard fun. The way you can launch yourself for wild spikes or crazy saves makes volleyball on a trampoline nothing like playing it in the grass. I tried this last summer with a couple of cousins and, honestly, it was more laughs than actual points—timing jumps with the ball is trickier than it sounds!

Here’s how to get started:

1. Grab a lightweight or foam volleyball—regular ones can be a little rough for bouncing.
2. Set up a makeshift net using a string, jump rope, or even a row of pillows right across the middle of the trampoline.
3. Decide on some loose rules, like how many hits per side or if you’re allowed bounces between hits.
4. Go for two-on-two, or rotate if you’ve got a bigger group. It’s a fast switch-up.

• You’ll get a ton of accidental team jumps (yup, full-on midair collisions).
• Expect plenty of missed swings and theatrical falls.
• And for sure, water breaks unless you like playing in a puddle of sweat.

On a trampoline, volleyball manages to be both exhausting and hilarious—you’ll end up with sore cheeks from laughing as much as from jumping. Don’t worry about being good at it; that’s not even the point.

20. Flashlight

There’s something instantly magical about hanging out on the trampoline at night, and a flashlight opens up a whole new set of things to do. The trampoline becomes your stage, your secret hideout, or even a full-blown theater when paired with a basic flashlight. You don’t need impressive gear; even a simple battery-powered flashlight can turn your backyard into an adventure.

Here are a few flashlight trampoline activities to try:

• Shadow Puppet Show: Clip a sheet to the side of the trampoline, shine your flashlight behind it, and put on goofy puppet shows with your hands or toys.
• Nighttime Obstacle Course: Use the flashlight for each player to find and race to scattered objects on the trampoline mat in the dark.
• Flashlight Tag: One person is “it” and tries to tag others with the light beam, while everyone else scrambles (carefully!) to avoid it.

The best part about flashlight trampoline games is how they can make the most ordinary night feel like something totally new, just by adding a little bit of light and a dash of imagination. There’s a different kind of fun out there when the sun goes down—just remember to be safe and watch your step!

21. Silk Scarves

Silk scarves on a trampoline are a total game changer, especially for kids looking for something different to do outside. The lightness of silk scarves makes them float and flutter with every bounce, turning simple jumps into swirling, colorful fun. It’s almost impossible not to smile when tossing scarves into the air and watching them drift slowly down, only to bounce them right back up again. If you’re feeling creative, you can come up with tons of new games that use scarves and the bouncy trampoline surface.

Here are some ways to use silk scarves on your trampoline:

• Try a scarf dance session—play music and toss scarves around, making up routines on the spot.
• Play a catch game, throwing scarves into the air while others try to snag them before they touch the mat.
• Challenge everyone to keep as many scarves floating as possible, only using their hands or feet.

Sometimes the best trampoline activities are the ones that get everyone moving and laughing, and scarves just make the simple act of bouncing way more interesting.

If you don’t have fancy silk scarves, even old lightweight ones or scraps of fabric will work. Just make sure the kids are supervised—scarves can get tangled if you’re not paying attention. Give it a try, and you’ll probably find it keeps everyone busy a lot longer than you’d expect.

22. Parachute

Who says trampolines are just for bouncing? You can totally transform your trampoline into a cool hangout spot or a fun play zone with a simple parachute. Imagine turning your trampoline into a cozy fort or a magical play tent. It's surprisingly easy to do.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• DIY Tent Roof: Grab a large play parachute and some elastic ties. Drape the parachute over the top of your trampoline enclosure and secure it. Boom! Instant shade or a fun, colorful roof for your trampoline fort.
• Stir the Soup Game: Have the kids sit in the middle of the trampoline. One person walks around the outside, picking up speed. As they go faster, the kids inside bounce more, like ingredients in a boiling pot. It’s a simple game that gets everyone moving.
• Indoor Fun: On a rainy day, a parachute can be a lifesaver. You can use it for games that keep kids active indoors, like shaking lightweight objects on it to make them bounce. Check out some ideas for indoor gross motor activities if you need more inspiration.

It’s amazing how a simple piece of fabric can add so many new ways to play with your trampoline. You can create a whole new world right in your backyard.

23. Curtains

Sometimes the simplest things—like hanging up some colorful curtains—can totally change how you use your trampoline. It's surprising, but just by draping light fabric around the posts or netting, you've got a private spot for relaxing, reading, or chatting with friends. Curtains can turn your trampoline into a cozy lounge, secret clubhouse, or even a mini outdoor playhouse.

If you don't want to sew, you can just use spring clips or fabric ties to attach the curtains. Here are a few quick ideas for getting started:

• Pick sheer, lightweight curtains for a breezy, magical feel.
• Try heavy blackout panels when you want shade or a cool movie-night setup.
• Use colorful shower curtains for something bright, easy to clean, and waterproof.

You might be surprised how much kids (and adults too) love a space that feels just a little bit hidden away, with sunlight peeking through the fabric on a summer day.

If you're looking for more ways to let your creativity loose outdoors, especially when it comes to backyard makeovers, there are some creative suggestions for imaginative playhouse ideas for kids you might want to check out as well.

24. Paper Airplanes

Who knew something as basic as folded paper could add so much fun to trampoline time? Launching paper airplanes from the trampoline turns a boring afternoon into an instant challenge. If you've never tried it, it's surprisingly addictive—you fold up a few sheets (everyone has their go-to design), climb on the trampoline, and see just how far or high they can get their planes to fly with a little bounce for a boost.

Here’s a quick way to make trampoline paper airplane competitions even more exciting:

• Set a timer for building your airplanes—say, 5 minutes per round.
• Compete for different records: furthest flight, highest launch, craziest loop, or most interesting design.
• Use a chalk line or rope on the grass to mark where each plane lands.

You’ll notice that the trampoline’s surface really changes how your airplane leaves your hand, often giving it an unpredictable lift, like a real airborne bonus that feels just like the thrill of flight.

There’s nothing like the combination of a soft bounce and a good breeze to turn basic paper and a trampoline into an all-ages outdoor game.

Rainy day? No problem! Just set up a backboard with a box or a target and see who can bounce (and aim) their plane right on target. If you’re looking for one of those activities that pulls everyone outside—kids, parents, even reluctant teens—give trampoline paper airplanes a go. The laughter and silly competition are hard to beat.

25. Hopper Ball and more

Let's get a little wild with your trampoline by tossing in a hopper ball. Jumping and bouncing around with one of these bouncy balls isn't just goofy fun—it changes up the whole trampoline vibe. Once you throw in a hopper ball, suddenly everyone wants a turn, and things get a little more unpredictable (in a good way).

The best part is you don’t have to stop at just one game—there are plenty of oddball activities you can invent when you mix balls, hop toys, and a trampoline. Here are a few ways to turn your backyard trampoline into a mini adventure zone:

• Try a hopper ball race—who can bounce from one side to the other the fastest while staying upright?
• Have someone toss soft balls onto the mat while you try to dodge them from atop the hopper ball.
• Connect the fun: jump off the hopper, grab a soft scarf and play trampoline twister, or lay down an obstacle course by adding small cones or toys around the edges.

Every time we get the hopper balls out, there’s a new made-up rule. Last week was ‘no-touch freeze bounce’—nobody could touch anyone else, but the first to fall had to do a silly dance in the middle. Does it get chaotic? Always. But it keeps everyone laughing.

If you’re feeling really ambitious, you can combine a bunch of items from this list for a true mash-up. Use glow sticks for bounce tag in the evening or set up a race to see who can pop balloons fastest with a hopper ball. You might be surprised at how creative (and loud) things can get when everyone’s bouncing around together.

Keep the Fun Going!

So there you have it – 25 ways to go way beyond just basic bouncing on your trampoline. It’s pretty amazing how much you can do with this one backyard item, right? From movie nights and fort building to science lessons and family band practice, the possibilities really are endless. Don't let your trampoline just sit there waiting for a jump. Grab some ideas from this list, get creative, and make some awesome memories. Happy bouncing, and happy everything else!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to use a trampoline for things other than jumping?

Yes, you can use a trampoline for many activities, but always make sure to follow safety rules. Don't overload the trampoline, and always have an adult watching when kids are playing. Make sure the trampoline is in good shape and has safety nets or pads.

Can I put a tent or sleeping bags on my trampoline?

You can set up a small tent or lay out sleeping bags on your trampoline for backyard camping or sleepovers. Just make sure the tent is not too heavy and that everyone is careful not to jump while these items are on the trampoline.

Will sidewalk chalk damage my trampoline?

Sidewalk chalk is safe for most trampoline mats. You can draw and create art, and the chalk will wash away with water or rain. Just make sure the mat is dry before jumping again to avoid slipping.

Can I use water toys like sprinklers or water balloons on my trampoline?

Yes, water toys like sprinklers and water balloons can make trampoline time even more fun, especially in the summer. Be careful, though—the surface gets slippery when wet, so always watch younger kids and avoid running or rough play.

How do I clean my trampoline after playing with chalk, water, or other messy items?

To clean your trampoline, just use a hose to wash off chalk or dirt. For bigger messes, you can use a soft brush and soapy water. Always let the trampoline dry before using it again.

What are some fun games I can play on a trampoline besides just bouncing?

There are lots of games you can try! Play basketball with a hoop, have a dance party with music, use glow sticks for night jumping, draw hopscotch with chalk, play catch with a beach ball, or set up an obstacle course. The ideas are endless—just remember to keep it safe!