This project was built and designed by Clinton from Specific Love Creations.
It’s a simple, affordable weekend build that turns a patch of lawn into a family-friendly space for friendly competition and outdoor fun.
Designed for easy assembly and long-term use, the build uses common materials and straightforward joinery. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a backyard upgrade that can be enjoyed the same day it’s completed.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Clinton’s channel:
Why a Horseshoes Pit Is Worth Building
Adding a horseshoes pit to your yard creates more than a game—it creates a reason for people to gather. Clinton and his son wanted an organized play space that looked clean, functioned well, and didn’t cost a fortune.
The final result is a sturdy pair of sand-filled pits framed in landscape timbers, complete with tall backstops to keep errant throws contained.
Planning and Layout
The first step is choosing the right location. The ground should be relatively level and free from obstructions like low branches or sprinkler heads.
Clinton measured out two opposing pits facing each other so players could take turns without crossing paths. Instead of focusing on exact regulation dimensions, the layout was set for comfortable play by the family and friends who would use it most.
Choosing Materials
Landscape timbers were selected for the frames because they’re affordable, easy to cut, and the right size for retaining sand. Sand was chosen for the playing surface, providing the classic look and feel of traditional horseshoes.
Fasteners included heavy nails for securing timbers to the ground and shorter nails for joining side panels. These choices kept the build cost-effective without compromising durability.
Cutting and Preparing the Wood
The timbers were cut to form rectangular boxes around each stake. Some ends were mitered for cleaner joints, and all connection points were pre-drilled to prevent splitting.
Rather than obsessing over exact numbers, Clinton focused on making each box proportionate, deep enough for several inches of sand, and aligned with its opposite pit.
Assembly and Anchoring
Each box was positioned around a center stake, then anchored to the ground by driving nails through the base timbers. The side and back boards were joined with shorter nails to keep everything flush and secure.
Centering the stakes during this stage is important—once the boxes are filled with sand, making adjustments becomes more difficult.
Adding a Safe Backstop
The backboards were stacked higher than the side walls to catch wayward throws. This not only improves safety but keeps the game moving without constant searching for lost horseshoes.
Extra nails through the side panels into the backboards help prevent shifting or tipping during play.
Preparing the Base and Adding Sand
The grass inside each frame was removed to create a flat base. Weed-blocking fabric was laid down before adding sand to keep the surface clean and easy to maintain.
The sand was poured in to fill each box several inches deep, providing a cushioned landing for horseshoes and a comfortable standing surface for players.
First Game and Final Reinforcements
Once the sand was in place, Clinton drove a few more nails through key points in the frame for extra strength. Then came the test run—an immediate game of horseshoes with his son.
The taller backstops did their job, keeping stray throws contained, and the sand provided a consistent surface for scoring.
Keeping the Sand Protected
The next day, a curious dog decided the sand made a great digging spot. Clinton’s solution was to build simple covers from leftover timbers and pressure-treated boards.
These covers rest on legs outside the pit edges, with crosspieces spanning the width. Gaps between boards discourage pets from climbing on top while still keeping the sand protected from digging and debris.
Upgrade Ideas and Customizations
Clinton notes that the stakes can be swapped for longer, heavier-duty versions for more stability. Recycled wood can also be used for the frame, as long as it’s inspected for embedded nails or metal before cutting.
Drainage can be improved by slightly sloping the base or using coarser sand. Alternate playing surfaces like crushed stone or pea gravel can be tried for different feel and maintenance needs.
Why It Works as a Weekend Build
This is a satisfying project because it uses basic tools, doesn’t demand extreme precision, and offers an immediate payoff. In just a few hours, a patch of lawn can be turned into a gathering spot for friends and family.
With a modest budget and a bit of planning, the finished pits look clean, play well, and last for many seasons.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Clinton’s channel: