Just because you have a small backyard doesn’t mean it cant be fun and exciting for your kids! And just because its small doesn’t mean you have to settle for some flimsy, cheaply made playset that isn’t worth your money to begin with. We all want to buy the best for our kids, and when it comes to playsets, Gorilla is hands down, number one in the industry.
Gorilla Playsets has been around since 1993 and have continued to produce safe, innovative playsets that kids and parents both love. All of their products meet/exceed ASTM safety standards and come with built in safety features such as wide nonslip steps, rounded wooden edges, and strategically placed grab handles.
Included in their lineup of over 90+ playsets are space saver models designed specifically for small backyards and come loaded with lots of cool play features your children will love!
In this article we’re going to be looking at 5 of the best Gorilla playsets for small yards so you can decide which one is a good fit for you! Lets get into it!
Gorilla Five Star II Space Saver (Best Overall)

Dimensions: 13’6″ (D) x 10′ (W) x 10’6″ (H)
Assembly Time: 8-10 Hours
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Belt Swings – 2
- Built-In Sandbox Area
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Chalkboard Kit
- Steering Wheel
- Play Telescope
- Flag Kit
- All Cedar Construction
- Beautiful Redwood Stain
The Gorilla Five Star II Space Saver is hands down the best Gorilla playset for small backyards. Its compact design fits perfectly in most yards and it comes with tons of great play features your kids will love. Lets take a look at what makes this playset number 1 on our list
To start, this playset is designed specifically for smaller backyards, hence the name. Gorilla has done an amazing job of packing as many play features into this swing set as possible! While it may not have all the bells and whistles as some of the other high end Gorilla playsets, it has more than enough to keep your kids happy and entertained.
Whats unique about this playset is that the swing beam extends out from both sides of the upper level clubhouse. This is part of what makes this playset perfect for small yards. Most other playsets take up a lot of extra space by having the swing beam off to one side only.
Some of the great play features of this playset include: 2 swings, built in sandbox, Alpine Wave Slide, and the upper level clubhouse. Also included is a chalkboard kit, steering wheel, tic-tac-toe board, and some cool flags.
Like all Gorilla playsets, its made from high quality Cedar lumber and is finished off with a beautiful Redwood stain that not only looks amazing, but helps protect from damaging UV rays that can cause warping. This stain, coupled with the green slide and play accents, make this playset as nice to look at as it is to play on.
All in all, the Gorilla Five Star II is an amazing playset for small yards and is sure to provide your kids with hours of fun and entertainment! Additional pics below.
Play Features
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Belt Swings – 2
- Built-In Sandbox Area
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Chalkboard Kit
- Steering Wheel
- Play Telescope
- Flag Kit
Construction Features
- Tongue & Groove Wood Roof Featuring Sunbursts, Dormers, and a Chimney
- Roof also features Custom Design Patterns of Stars, Crescents, and Diamonds
- 4×4 Natural Cedar Posts & Main Beams
- 4×6 2-Position Swing Beam
- Grab Handles
- Safe Entry Ladder
- Semi-Enclosed Clubhouse with Decorative Window Inserts
- Cedar with a beautiful Redwood Finish
Gorilla Chateau Tower

Dimensions: 14’6″ (D) x 9’6″ (W) x 11′ (H)
Assembly Time: 6-8 Hours
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Deluxe Rope Ladder
- Safe Entry Ladder
- Built-In Picnic Table
- Built-In Sandbox Area with Corner Seats
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Steering Wheel
- Telescope
- All Cedar Construction
- Multiple Roof Options
- Beautiful Amber Finish
Depending on your situation, you may not need or want a playset with a swing. If that’s the case, the Gorilla Chateau Tower is the perfect playset for you!
It comes equipped with lots of great play features including: upper level clubhouse, built in sand box, Alpine Wave Slide, rock climbing wall, and a cool rope ladder. These features are more than enough to keep most kids happy for hours at a time!
The fact that it doesn’t have swings means that its even more compatible for use in small backyards. In terms of dimension, this is the smallest playset on the list, measuring in at 14’6″ (D) x 9’6″ (W) x 11′ (H). It also means it has the quickest assembly time. Most users have been able to put this playset together in around 6-8 hours.
Its made of high quality, heavy duty Cedar lumber which is naturally resistent to rot, insect damage, and moisture. Couple that with the beautiful Amber stain finish and you have a playset thats built to endure the elements for years to come. There are also multiple roof options to choose from if you’re not crazy about the one pictured.
Overall, the Gorilla Chateau Tower is a great playset if you dont need the swings. Its compact, space saver design is perfect for small yards and its quick assembly time makes it less of a hassle to put together than some other playsets.
Play Features
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Deluxe Rope Ladder
- Safe Entry Ladder
- Built-In Picnic Table
- Built-In Sandbox Area with Corner Seats
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Steering Wheel
- Telescope
Construction Features
- Tongue & Groove Wood Roof featuring Sunbursts
- Dormers and a Chimney
- 4×4 Posts & Main Beams
- Available in Cedar with a beautiful Amber Finish
Gorilla Nantucket Swing Set

Dimensions: 13’6″ (D) x 16′ (W) x 10’6″ (H)
Assembly Time: 6-8 Hours
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Upper-level Clubhouse featuring Two Windows with Real Working Shutters
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Safe Entry Ladder
- Belt Swings – 2
- Trapeze Swing
- Built-In Sandbox Area
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Steering Wheel
- Telescope
- All Cedar Construction
- Beautiful Redwood Stain
The Gorilla Nantucket is one of Gorilla’s best selling models and has been for a while now. It has so much to offer and for the price, its pretty hard to beat.
To start, its has Gorilla’s beautiful Redwood stain that really makes it stand out, especially when compared to metal and plastic swing sets. Wooden swing sets and playsets tend to look better in the backyard anyways, but then again, its all a matter of personal preference.
Packed with amazing play features such as an upper level clubhouse, two swings, a trapeze bar, rock climbing wall, and the famous Alpine Wave Slide, this playset has more than enough to keep your kids outdoors and having a blast. And because its built to exceed ASTM safety standards, as all Gorilla playsets are, you can rest assured that your child is playing on the safest and most reliable playset money can buy.
The average assembly time usually runs between 6-8 hours with two people. However, Gorilla makes assembly super easy by providing in depth assembly instructions. They also pre-cut, pre-sand, and pre-stain all the wood to help make the assembly process even faster.
If you want a top notch playset with built in safety features that’ll fit nicely in your backyard, look no further than the Gorilla Nantucket. Its a little bit larger than the first two swings on the list but still fits well in most backyards.
Play Features
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Upper-level Clubhouse featuring Two Windows with Real Working Shutters
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Safe Entry Ladder
- Belt Swings – 2
- Trapeze Swing
- Built-In Sandbox Area
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Steering Wheel
- Telescope
Construction Features
- Tongue & Groove Wood Roof featuring Sunbursts, Dormers and a Chimney
- 4×4 Solid Cedar Wood Framing
- 4×6 3-Position Swing Beam
- Patented A-Frame Bracket
- Available in Cedar with a beautiful Redwood Finish
Gorilla High Point II

Dimensions: 9′ (D) x 18’6″ (W) x 9 (H)
Assembly Time: 6-10 Hours
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Deluxe Rope Ladder
- Belt Swings – 2
- Trapeze Swing
- Punching Ball
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Telescope
- All Cedar Construction
- Beautiful Amber Finish
The Gorilla High Point II is one of the best playsets for small yards, hands down. Not only does it feature a space saver design, its not too hard on the wallet either.
This playset has a unique design that your kids are sure to love. Instead of the built in sand box that comes standard on some other Gorilla playsets, this one is left open with a punching ball hanging down from the ceiling below. This open area is great for allowing kids some time to cool off in the shade, or to unleash their inner Mike Tyson. Whichever they prefer.
The Deluxe Green Vinyl Canopy is perfect for quick roof assembly and keeping your kids protected from the sun. However, this is the only roof option available for this playset. If this is a deal breaker, you’ll have to check out some of the other options on the list.
The average assembly time is 6-10 hours with two people. Maybe you can find a buddy that owes you a favor or get your spouse to help you out. For the most part, assembly isn’t too difficult, just time consuming. With a little patience you’ll get it together no problem!
If you want an amazing Gorilla playset at an amazing price, definitely check out the Gorilla High Point II. Its unique design along with its great play features are sure to make it your childs favorite favorite piece of outdoor play equipment!
Play Features
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Deluxe Rope Ladder
- Belt Swings – 2
- Trapeze Swing
- Punching Ball
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Telescope
Construction Features
- Deluxe Green Vinyl Canopy
- 4×4 Solid Cedar Wood Framing
- 4×6 3-Position Swing Beam
- Large Safe Entry Ladder
- Patented A-Frame Bracket
- Available in Cedar with a beautiful Amber Finish
Gorilla Mountaineer Swing Set

Dimensions: 15′ (D) x 21′ (W) x 11′ (H)
Assembly Time: 12-16 Hours
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Extreme Tube Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Deluxe Rope Ladder
- Belt Swings – 2
- Trapeze Swing
- Built-In Picnic Table
- Built-In Sandbox Area with Corner Seats
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Steering Wheel
- Telescope
- All Cedar Construction
- Multiple Roof Options
- Beautiful Amber Finish
If you’re looking to push the limits on what you can fit in your yard, the Gorilla Mountaineer Playset may be a good fit for you. Its the largest playset on the list, but depending on what you need, it may be perfect for you.
Measuring in at 15′ (D) x 21′ (W) x 11′ (H), the Gorilla Mountaineer is going to take up a little bit more real estate than the other playsets mentioned above. But it does come with some extra features that the other dont have including the Extreme Tube Slide and the Deluxe Rope Ladder.
With that being said, the extra play features and bigger size may be appealing to you and your family if you want to get the most for your money and you have lots of kids to entertain at the same time. However, if your yard is really small, this probably isn’t the set for you.
The great thing about this playset, along with all Gorilla playsets, is its heavy duty construction. All of the main posts and beams are made from heavy duty 4×4’s and the main swing beam is made from a 4×6. All of the hardware used is heavy duty commercial grade, along with the assembly brackets.
If you want the most bang for your buck and have a little more space than you initially thought, the Gorilla Mountaineer may be a great fit for you and your family!
Play Features
- Alpine Wave Slide™
- Extreme Tube Slide™
- Rock Wall with Climbing Rope
- Deluxe Rope Ladder
- Belt Swings – 2
- Trapeze Swing
- Built-In Picnic Table
- Built-In Sandbox Area with Corner Seats
- Tic-Tac-Toe Panel
- Steering Wheel
- Telescope
Construction Features
- Safe Entry Ladder
- Tongue & Groove Wood Roof featuring Sunbursts, Dormer and a Chimney
- 4×4 Posts & Main Beams
- 4×6 3-Position Swing Beam
- Patented A-Frame Bracket
Playset Buying Guide
As with any purchase we make in life, there are always considerations to make first. Playsets are no different. Lets take a look at some considerations you should make prior to buying your childs playset.
Budget
Of course, one of the primary concerns is how much you can spend. Playsets can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousands. With that in mind, its important to do some research to make sure you’re getting the best playset you can for your money.
Generally speaking, you get what you pay for. And often times, at least in the world of playsets, higher price tags mean higher quality and unique play features. Definitely take some time to research the brands you’re considering buying.
If you’re reading this article, I’ll assume you’re interested in Gorilla playsets. If you’ve done any research at all, you know that they can be a bit pricey, but to most buyers, their prices aren’t unjustified.
Type of Playset
There are lots of different styles of playsets on the market today. The vast majority of them are made from either wood, metal, or some form of plastics.
The type of playset you choose will largely come down to personal preference about looks, and the required maintenance needed to keep them in good shape.
Generally speaking, metal and plastic playsets require less maintenance than wood. Thats because you dont have to stain them every year or so to keep them protected from the elements. Most metal and plastic playsets hold up well outdoors but most people prefer the looks of a wooden playset.
Again, it all boils down to what you like and if you really want to take the time to re-stain a playset every couple of years or so.
Related Article: Wood vs. Metal Swing Sets: Which One Is Right For You?
Available Space
If you’re reading this article, then you’ve already considered the amount of space you have. Its important to note that just because a playset will technically fit in your yard, doesn’t mean that you should buy it.
According to ASTM guidelines, there should be a 6′ safety perimeter around the entire playset. This means that there should be nothing within 6′ feet of the playset including trees, fences, the side of the house, etc. This is done to help prevent potential injuries and keep your kids safe.
If you cant install the playset and keep the 6′ safety perimeter in tact, you may need to find a smaller playset.
Safety
When it comes to purchasing a playset, obviously safety is a huge concern. We all know that there are inherent risks associated with swings and playsets in general. But to have a child get hurt as the result of poor quality or workmanship is simply unacceptable.
When purchasing a playset, its always a good idea to see if they’re built to any set of safety guidelines. ASTM is the most recognizable and any playset you consider buying should meet their standards. If they don’t, look elsewhere. Gorilla playsets are built to meet and exceed ASTM safety standards. They go above and beyond when looking out for the safety of your children.
Why Buy a Gorilla Playset

There are lots of great brands to choose from when it comes to buying a playset. So why choose Gorilla?
To start, Gorilla puts you childs safety first. All of their playsets are built to meet and exceed ASTM safety standards. Their playsets have integrated safety features such as flat, wide ladder steps, smooth edges, strategically placed grab handles, pinch free chains, and pre-sanded lumber. All of this combined equals a playset thats as safe as they come.
Gorilla playsets are built with high quality, heavy duty Cedar lumber. Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, rot, and insect damage, making it the perfect choice for outdoor playsets. Gorilla uses 4×4’s for their playset legs and over sized 4×6’s for the main swing beam. Not only that, all of their playsets use commercial grade brackets and hardware to ensure a long lasting playset that’s safe and secure.
When it comes time to assemble, Gorilla has made the process as simple and easy as possible. They provide in depth assembly instructions and all the lumber is pre-cut, pre-sanded, and pre-stained to save you even more time. On average, Gorilla playsets take 70% less time to assemble than other playsets.
All Gorilla playsets are backed by an amazing warranty: 10 Years on lumber and 1 Year on all other components and accessories. Gorilla stands by their products as seen by the amazing warranty they offer. If you have any trouble with your playset during the warranty period, simply call and they’ll repair or replace the damaged item free of charge.
All of this coupled with the amazing play features that come standard on all Gorilla playsets, and you can see why they’re known as the industry leader.

Gorilla Playsets Weight Capacities
Regardless of which Gorilla playset you choose, the weight capacities are the same. Each Gorilla playset is built to the same specs and exact the same amount of quality. Below is a list of weight limits for all Gorilla playsets and accessories.
•Fort Platforms: 800 lbs Total Weight
• Swing Belt: 225 lbs
• Tandem Swings: 70 Lb Per Child. Up to 140 lbs Total Weight
• Trapeze: 125 lbs
• Full Bucket Swing/ Half Bucket Swing: 50 lbs
• Heavy Duty Toddler Bucket Swing: 85 lbs
• Infant Swing: 35 lbs
• Tire Swing: 125 lbs Total Weight
• Rope Ladder: 75 lbs
• Rock Wall: 150 lbs
• Climbing Ramp: 150 lbs
• Monkey Bars: 175 lbs
• All Slides: 150 lbs
In Conclusion
As you can see, there are lots of great options to choose from when looking for the best Gorilla playset for small yards. Any one on the list would be great for your family. Just remember to double check the space where you plan on putting it and make sure you can allow for the 6′ safety perimeter.
I hope this article has been helpful and that you’ve found the perfect Gorilla playset. Feel free to check out the rest of the site for more helpful articles just like this one! Thanks for reading!