Backyard Discovery Swing Set Reviews

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Greetings once again and welcome to this Backyard Discovery Swing Set compilation review which will cover 9 different models under this brand so at least you have more than 1 choice when it comes to making a final decision. The range of Swing sets under the Backyard Discovery is quite large so our review will be outlined in 3 different parts as follows:

  • Part 1 – will be 3 models that tend to be the in the lower price range
  • Part 2 – will be 3 models that tend to be the in the middle price range
  • Part 3 – will be a quick summary of 3 popular models that tend to be the in the higher price range

So, depending on the level of money you wish to spend, feel free to skip to whatever part you feel will interest you the most. Please be aware also that guide prices can only be submitted at the time of this review as prices can change depending on local discount activities so please make sure to view the price checkers provided below to ensure you have the most up to date accurate price information.

In addition, we will outline all the main pros and cons that you need to be aware of for each model and also a summary comparison table to help you make your final decision. At the end of this page, we also provide additional price comparison options that you can also check out if you wish to look further and compare prices elsewhere.

Backyard Discovery Swing Set Review Overview:

Brand:Backyard Discovery
Models:9 Model review compilation
Orders online:Yes, orders accepted online
Home Delivery:Yes, home deliveries available
Queries Contact:Backyard Discovery support office at 1-800-856-4445
Warranty:5 years on wood against rot / decay and 1 year on all other parts
Price Range:$290 up to $1500 (at the time of this review)
Cheap Place to Buy: Amazon - Check Updated Prices Here

Backyard Discovery Wooden Swing Set Review Part 1 - Lower Priced Options

Backyard Discovery Dayton Cedar Swing Set

Main Pros Outlined:

Price level tends to be very low
Can be on sale for less than $300
Ideal for bargain hunters
Decent size 8 foot slide
Mesh protector for the deck area
Includes 2 belt swings
Includes the Trapeze bar
2 ladders – Rock and Step climber
Sandbox can be used underneath
Can entertain 6 kids at a time
Ideal for smaller yards and lawns
Angled frame for added stability
Easier assembly than larger units
Overall good value for the money

Main Cons Outlined:

Very basic – limited accessories
Upper deck is too small
Canopy is very flimsy/ lightweight
Slide could be more robust
Missing parts from time to time
Limited max weight 120Ibs/child
Smaller than you think
Assembly needs careful attention
Some drilling can be needed
A larger unit may be needed later
Can take a day or so to assemble
Further staining will be required
Wood Sealers are required

Backyard Discovery Prescott Cedar Swing Set

Main Pros Outlined:

Sometimes available for <$350
Ideal for bargain hunters
Shading provided with a canopy
2 belts swings are provided
Trapeze included and 8 foot slide
From sustainable cedar forests
No expensive addons
Basic yet very effective
Perfect for smaller yards
Assembly easier due to small size
Maintenance tips are included
5 year pro-rated wood warranty
Damaged parts replaced  30 days
Frame is angled for stability

Main Cons Outlined:

Limited accessories available
Slide could be a lot sturdier
Upper deck is very small
Wood could be better quality
Further staining would be needed
Again, smaller than you think
Too small for older kids 10+
Additional drilling can be needed
Usually takes a day to assemble
Manual needs careful attention
Canopy will deteriorate in time
Sealers and staining over time
Assembly is 8 hours+ x 2 adults

Backyard Discovery Tucson Cedar Swing Set

Main Pros Outlined:

Price can be lower than $350
Basic yet very attractive overall
Allows 7 children to play at once
2 belts swings included
Includes the trapeze bar
Playdeck is shaded & covered
Factory stained with a rich color
Includes a bench for snack time
Fast 8 foot slide provided
Can accommodate picnics
Lumber is pre-cut and predrilled
Great value overall for the money
Kid-friendly chains are provided
A Safe-T-fuse fastener system
Lumber is stamped for assembly
5 year rot/decay warranty
Excellent value for the price

Main Cons Outlined:

Slide could be sturdier
Low level of accessories
Sandbox could be larger
Additional drilling can be needed
Assembly will take a day or 2
Tons of screws to map out
Upper deck area is very small
Several charged drills needed
Overall size is small also
Missing pieces reported

A summary table for the Dayton, Prescott and the Tucson Backyard Discovery Models are outlined below:

Feature:Backyard Discovery DaytonBackyard Discovery PrescottBackyard Discovery Tucson
Size:16'4"W by 7'3"D by 7'10"H11' 8.5"L x 11' 2"W x 8' 2"H18' 1"L x 7' 4"W x 9' 5"H
Belt Swings:222
Trapeze Bar:111
Ladders:Step and Rock wallRock wall ladderRock wall ladder
Number of Activities:664
Age Suitability:3 to 10 years3 to 10 years3 to 10 years
Weight:180 Ibs200 Ibs204 Ibs
Upper Deck Size:55" by 20"49" by 22"33" by 35"
Upper Deck Height:4 feet4 feet4 feet
Sandbox:Yes, 5 cu ft requiredYes, 5 cu ft requiredYes, 5 cu ft required
Max weight Capacity:960 lbs960 lbs960 lbs
Monkey Bars:N/AN/AN/A
Glider:N/AN/AN/A
Warranty:Wood 5 years, Parts 1 yearWood 5 years, Parts 1 yearWood 5 years, Parts 1 year

Backyard Discovery Wooden Swing Set Review Part 2 - Medium Priced Options

Backyard Discovery Weston Cedar Swing Set

Main Pros Outlined:

Price level still very affordable
Can be discounted for >$400
Eco-friendly & sustainable wood
Rich color and is factory stained
Fun trapeze bar included
Includes 2 belt swings
Upper deck canopy shading
Includes a picnic activity bench
Pre-stained & assembly stamped
Pre-cut and predrilled
100% sustainable cedar used
5 year wood warranty rot/decay
Can entertain 7 children
The safe-T-Fuse fastener system
1 year warranty on all parts
Not bad value for the price tag

Main Cons Outlined:

No canopy for the picnic table
Canopy a little flimsy
May need to replace canopy
Upper deck is very small
No monkey bars/glider included
Assembly will take a day or 2
Tons of assembly pieces to plan
Smaller sandbox size
Limited up to 10 years old
Further predrilling can be needed
Few cases of missing parts seen
Picnic table is extremely small
Needs a wood sealer added
Creaking noises at times

Backyard Discovery Oakmont Cedar Swing Set

Main Pros Outlined:

Price still tends to be <$500
2 swing belts & trapeze provided
Decent upper deck size and window
Bright attractive 8 foot speedy slide
An awesome white trimmed window
A raised fort with a colorful awning
Built in fort underneath door/window
A side snack window & picnic bench
Can entertain 9 children with bench
100% Cedar with a nice bronze finish
Angled frame for stability
Smaller & compact for small yards
Upper mini clubhouse effect
Good warranty period provided
More space on the upper deck
Detailed manual included assemble
Includes safe-T-Fuse hardware
Easier to assemble than larger sets

Main Cons Outlined:

Lumber could be a lot more solid
Assembly is very tricky – 2 days work
Tons of small pieces to assemble
Higher price level to pay
Bench could be a lot larger
Limited to age of 10 years only
No glider or monkey bars included
A lot smaller than you think
Further pilot hole drilling is needed
Further wood sealers/sealant needed
Some report parts being missed
Canopy may not last a long time

Backyard Discovery Montpelier Cedar Swing Set

Main Pros Outlined:

Higher spec premium set
A lot more activities to enjoy
Great Sun deck provided
Imagination Station Center
Side bench for breaks/snacks
A 4 foot Wave Rider
Monkey bars are included
8 foot super speedy slide
Flat step ladder with handrails
Upper deck fort & timber roof
No flimsy canopies
Has a full door & bay windows
Enjoyable 2 person glider
Snack stand with side bench
Larger compact sand box area
Cedar from sustainable forests
A deluxe wood roof included
Has the Safe-T-Fuse fasteners
Can entertain 9 children
Good value for the quality

Main Cons Outlined:

Price can be too high - $650+
Low number of monkey bars
Assembly can take 2 or 3 days
A lot more parts to plan out
2 or 3 people for assembly
Missing parts have been seen
Additional sealants needed
Boxes may arrive on different days
Further pilot hole drilling
Limited to max age of 10 years

A summary table for the Weston, Oakmont and Montpelier Backyard Discovery Models are outlined below:

Feature:Backyard Discovery WestonBackyard Discovery OakmontBackyard Discovery Montpelier
Size:13'2"L 10'10"W 9'2"H14'W 11'3"D 8'7"H16' 4"L 15' 6"W 9' 3-1/2"H
Belt Swings:222
Trapeze Bar:11N/A
Ladders:Rock wall ladderStandard stepladderStandard stepladder
Number of Activities:567
Age Suitability3 to 10 years3 to 10 years3 to 10 years
Weight:190lbs220lbs280lbs
Upper Deck Size:30" by 30"40" by 40"60" by 60"
Upper Deck Height:4 feet4 feet4 feet
Sandbox:Yes, 3 cu ft requiredYes, 5 cu ft requiredYes, 5 cu ft required
Max weight Capacity:1050Ibs1200Ibs1350 lbs.
Monkey Bars:N/AN/AYes
Glider:N/AN/AYes
Warranty:Wood 5 years, Parts 1 yearWood 5 years, Parts 1 yearWood 5 years, Parts 1 year

Backyard Discovery Wooden Swing Set Quick Summary Part 3 - Higher Priced Options

Backyard Discovery Springboro Swing Set

Main Points:

Playhouse upper Clubhouse
Glider and 2 belt swings
Age suitability is 3 to 10 years
Picnic Table built in
Max 150 Ibs per child
Weight is 364 Ibs
Price generally $800+

 

Backyard Discovery Thunder Ridge Swing Set

Main Points:

Heavy Duty fort & Clubhouse
Glider and 2 belt swings
Age suitability is 5 to 12 years
Picnic Table built in
Larger 10’ slide
Max 150 Ibs per child
Price generally $1000+

 

Backyard Discovery Skyfort II Cedar Swing Set

Main Points:

Superior quality and heavy duty
Glider and 2 belts swings
Monkey bars included
Rock ladder and clubhouse
Solid timber roof and telescope
Bay windows and a real door
Price generally $1000+

 

Some Final Tips about Backyard Discovery Swing Sets:

Main Benefits for using Outdoor Swing Sets

  • It’s a great outdoor physical activity and provides lots of exercise to keep your children fit and healthy
  • A swing set at home provides more security instead of going to a park alone
  • All the hardware, lumber is included in the overall package with a detailed manual instruction included

Benefits of Cedar being used for Swing Sets:

  • Comes from sustainable resources and it is pre-cut, pre-drilled and pre-stained
  • Cost levels are lower when compared to higher premium woods to make it more affordable
  • Much lighter to assemble and move around due to the lightweight nature of cedar
  • Treatment allows it to be naturally resistant to bugs, termites, mold and decay.
  • It is also able to cope with humid climates though additional staining and sealers should be applied after delivery

Maintenance:

  • You should perform monthly maintenance check-ups on bolts, plastic and wood parts to ensure they remain lock tight and solid.
  • Effective maintenance instructions are also included in the Backyard Discovery pack to help it last longer so please ensure you read this carefully and keep it in a safe place.
  • They will replace any parts within the first 30 days from date of purchase found to be missing or damaged
  • Please ensure you add a wood protective sealant once assembled for added protection against the weather.

Typical Tools which tend to be needed for the Assembly

  • Level 24 inch
  • Square
  • Tape measure
  • Claw hammer
  • 3/16", 5/16" and 3/8" drill bits
  • 1/2" and 9/16" nut drivers
  • 3/8" drive ratchet, 1/2" and 9/16" std sockets
  • Phillips head screw driver
  • 3/8" drill bit
  • Step Ladder
  • 3/8" drive ratchet
  • Drill Attachments Phillips head screw, 3/8" socket driver, torque head screw
  • 1/2" and 7/16" open end wrenches
  • Rubber mallet
  • Cordless drills
  • 3/8" cordless or electric drill
  • Claw hammer
  • Phillips and straight blade screw drivers
  • 1/2" and 9/16" deep sockets

 

If you wish, you can also take a closer look at the Backyard Discovery Tucson Review and the Backyard Discovery Monticello review here which give more detail on these 2 particular models of Swing sets.

Have you or your kids any personal experience with the Backyard Discovery All Cedar Wood Swing Sets in the past?

If so, then please share your thoughts and feedback with the wider community by leaving a comment in the comment section below – So that they can learn also!

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8 Comments

  1. These swing sets look like any child’s dream come true, and as you go down the list they just get better and better. When my daughter was younger we purchased a swing set locally and she had hours of fun outdoor entertainment on it. We have since passed it on to her friend  because from about the age of ten she started to use it less and less. It is so good for children to play outdoors on sets , especially in this age of technology. Their entire bodies are strengthened and developed through this type of exercise. I think I would definitely go for a slightly more expensive model rather than the more flimsy versions, as a child’s safety is paramount. My next child who is 5 needs a set and I reckon I will go for either the Montpelier or the Skyfort after reading this

  2. Thanks for your great overall review about the Backyard Discovery playsets, a lot more useful to have several models under the one review and much quicker also. I really like the swings sets selected here especially the lower priced ones such as the Dayton and Tucson as I am looking for a bargain for 2 kids aged between 5 and 8. I know my kids will love them as well. We do have a huge backyard and I plan to install a swing set for the kids. I would be nervous about the install though, would we be able to assemble it properly as they look quite big.

  3. Thanks for putting together this Backyard Discovery review guide together, must easier to view several reviews under one page I must say ! I like how you’ve included images within the pros and cons and the product descriptions; it really helps with visualizing and understanding the pros and cons in a practical way and I have been undecided which model to go with – the kids want the Thunder ridge or the Skyfort but I really can only afford the Dayton or the Tucson. One of the best reviews my wife and I have seen so cheers for your work of reviewing so many of them – makes our job of selection a lot easier! Thanks again!

  4. I love these swingsets and have been considering purchasing for my grand kids to enjoy when they visit.  I can remember growing up loving these sets.  My only concern is the wood rot.  I see the wood has a 5 year warranty.  I live in Florida where we get rain almost daily (not necessary a lot) and it is humid here.  How long can the wood possibly last?  Is there something you can put on as a protectant to keep the wood from rotting?

    • Yes, you should always apply a wood sealant and preservative to protect it against the weather. This can be applied annually and takes only 15 minutes work. A maintenance guide is also included when delivered so you should keep this in a safe place. Thanks for taking the time to stop by and I hope your grandchildren enjoy their visits even more now!

  5. Wow so much information here – great review overall. Our relations have a Backyard discovery Tucson swing set and I have been thinking about getting one also as I’ve got 3 kids at the ages 4, 4 and 7, and they continuously ask me also every week for one. After reading this I reckon we will go for the Backyard Discovery Skyfort instead – cheers so much for helping me out with your review

    • You are very welcome and best of luck with the Skyfort – your kids will be thrilled once it is all assembled. Many thanks also for taking the time to stop by and leave your feedback – take care – Ryan

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