Mini Disc Golf: Backyard Games, Sets, and Tournament Markers

Mini disc golf is one of the most fun ways to enjoy the sport without needing a full course. Whether you're setting up a backyard game for a party, looking for a desk toy that sparks conversation, or wondering about those small discs players place on the ground during tournaments - mini disc golf covers all of it.

In this guide, we'll break down the different sides of mini disc golf: the game you can play at home, the mini baskets and sets available, and the mini markers every tournament player needs to carry.

What Exactly Is Mini Disc Golf?

Mini disc golf means different things depending on context:

As a backyard game: A scaled-down version of disc golf using miniature discs (about 4 inches in diameter) and small portable baskets. Perfect for backyards, offices, breweries, and indoor spaces where full-size disc golf isn't practical.

As a tournament tool: Mini markers are small discs required in PDGA tournament play to mark where your thrown disc landed. Every competitive player carries at least one.

As a collectible: Mini baskets and mini discs make popular desk decorations, gifts, and display pieces for disc golf fans.

Best Mini Disc Golf Sets and Baskets

INNOVA Mini DISCatcher Game Set

Mini Disc Golf Game Set

INNOVA Mini DISCatcher Game Set

Complete backyard mini disc golf game

Pros

• Complete set with basket and 5 discs
• 24 chains for solid catching
• All-metal construction
• Fun for parties and gatherings

Cons

• Mini discs fly differently than full-size
• Basket is too small for regulation practice
• Not PDGA approved for tournament use

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The Innova Mini DISCatcher Game Set is the best all-in-one package for mini disc golf. You get a quality mini basket with 24 chains and five mini discs, ready to play right out of the box. The basket is large enough to provide a satisfying catching experience while small enough to set up anywhere - backyard, basement, office, or dorm room.

The all-metal construction means this isn't a flimsy toy. The chains catch mini discs well, and the basket holds up to regular use. Set up multiple baskets to create a mini course in your yard, or use a single basket for putting competitions at parties.

Wham-O Mini Frisbee Golf Set

Mini Disc Golf Game Set

Wham-O Mini Frisbee Golf Set

Family-friendly backyard fun at an affordable price

Pros

• Most affordable mini disc golf set
• Six included discs means everyone plays
• Lightweight and kid-friendly
• Fun party game

Cons

• Lighter construction than Innova set
• Smaller basket may miss some throws
• Not built for heavy daily use

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The Wham-O set is the most affordable entry into mini disc golf. The 28-inch basket with metal chains is sized right for backyard games, and the six included 4-inch mini discs give everyone something to throw. It's lightweight (2.2 lbs), making it easy for kids to set up and move around the yard.

This is a game set, not a training tool - but that's exactly the point. It's a blast at family gatherings, barbecues, and birthday parties. Kids especially love it since the smaller discs are easier for small hands to grip and throw.

MVP Black Hole Mini Basket

Mini Disc Golf Basket (standalone)

MVP Black Hole Mini Basket

Best standalone mini basket or desk decoration

Pros

• MVP build quality in miniature
• 24 chains in two tiers (Mini version)
• Micro is a perfect gift/desk item
• Assembles in under a minute

Cons

• Mini version is expensive for a game
• Sold without discs (buy separately)
• Micro is decorative only
• not for play

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MVP makes two mini baskets: the Black Hole Mini (26.5" tall with 24 chains) for actual mini disc golf play, and the Black Hole Micro (6.5" tall) for your desk.

The Mini version is the premium choice for serious mini disc golf. Its 24 double-tiered chains mirror the full-size Black Hole Pro's chain configuration, scaled down proportionally. The all-metal construction and MVP's signature engineering make this the most satisfying mini basket to putt on.

The Micro is a desk toy that catches coins, bottle caps, and mini discs. It's a perfect gift for disc golf fans and looks great on a shelf or desk.

Mini Disc Golf Markers for Tournament Play

Every PDGA tournament requires players to mark their disc's lie with a mini marker before picking up their thrown disc. Here's what you need to know.

PDGA Specifications for Mini Markers

• Diameter: 7-15 cm (about 2.75-5.875 inches)
• Height: Maximum 3 cm (1.18 inches)
• Shape: Must be circular
• Material: Plastic, metal, or wood
• Weight: No official requirement (typically 25-40 grams)

Most mini markers are about 4 inches in diameter and weigh around 28-40 grams. You place the marker directly in front of your disc's lie, pick up your disc, and throw from behind the marker on your next shot.

MVP Plasma Nano

Mini Marker Disc

MVP Plasma Nano

The most popular mini marker on the market

Pros

• Industry standard mini marker size and weight
• Available in dozens of colors and stamps
• Durable premium plastics
• Collectible across MVP, Axiom, and Streamline brands

Cons

• Light enough to blow in strong wind
• Can be hard to find specific colors
• Premium plastics cost more than basic minis

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The MVP Nano is the mini marker you'll see at nearly every tournament. At 10.5cm and 32g, it's the standard size and weight that most players prefer. Available in Plasma, Neutron, and Proton plastics across all three MVP family brands (MVP, Axiom, Streamline), the Nano comes in a huge range of colors and stamp designs that make them fun to collect.

Innova Aero Mini Marker

Mini Marker Disc

Innova Aero Mini Marker

Budget-friendly tournament mini marker

Pros

• Most affordable mini marker available
• Multiple colors and plastic options
• Metal version available for wind resistance
• Mini versions of popular Innova molds

Cons

• DX plastic scuffs quickly
• Lighter than some players prefer
• Basic stamp designs compared to MVP

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Innova's Aero mini is the cheapest way to get a quality mini marker. At around $2-3 in DX plastic, you can grab several colors without thinking twice. Innova also offers Star and metal versions - the metal minis are heavier (~90g) and sit firmly on the ground without blowing away, which is a real advantage on windy courses.

Innova makes mini versions of popular disc molds too, so you can carry a mini Aviar or mini Destroyer as your marker. It's a small detail that adds personality to your tournament game.

Discraft Mini Buzzz

Mini Marker Disc

Discraft Mini Buzzz

Players who want an oversized, substantial mini marker

Pros

• Oversized design is easy to spot and place
• Heavier weight resists wind better than standard minis
• Premium Z plastic durability
• Iconic Buzzz mold in miniature

Cons

• More expensive than standard minis
• Nearly maxes out PDGA size limits
• Bulkier to carry than standard minis

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Discraft takes a different approach with their minis. The Mini Elite Z Buzzz is nearly 6 inches wide and 62g - on the large end of PDGA-legal but popular with players who like a substantial marker that's easy to place and won't disappear in the grass. The Z plastic is premium and holds up well over time.

Discraft also makes a Jawbreaker Mini Zone with the same oversized design in grippier Jawbreaker plastic. If you're a Discraft thrower, matching your marker to your bag just feels right.

Choosing a Mini Marker

For tournament use, any PDGA-legal mini works. Some players prefer:

• Lightweight minis (~28-35g): Standard choice, easy to carry multiple
• Heavy/metal minis (~60-90g): Won't blow away in wind, satisfying feel
• Oversized minis (15cm/6"): Easier to place accurately, larger target area

Most players accumulate mini markers naturally through tournament player packs, disc golf subscriptions, and impulse buys. They're inexpensive ($3-$8 each) and collectible.

Setting Up a Backyard Mini Disc Golf Course

Mini disc golf shines as a backyard activity. Here's how to set up a fun course:

Equipment Needed

• 1-3 mini baskets (or improvise with buckets, boxes, or chairs)
• Mini discs for each player (most sets include enough)
• Markers for tee areas (cones, rocks, or tape)

Course Design Tips

• 3-6 holes works well for most backyards
• 50-80 feet per hole for casual players
• Use obstacles - throw around trees, over bushes, through gaps
• Vary the layout - some straight, some dogleg, some with elevation
• Rotate starting points to create different holes without moving baskets

House Rules

Mini disc golf is casual - make it fun with house rules:

• Closest to the pin wins if you don't have enough baskets for a full course
• Bonus throws from creative positions (kneeling, off-hand, between the legs)
• Ace pool - everyone puts in a dollar, first ace wins the pot
• Team play - alternate throws with a partner for best-shot format

Mini Disc Golf for Kids

Mini disc golf is one of the best ways to introduce kids to the sport. The smaller discs fit small hands better than full-size discs, the shorter distances are achievable, and the backyard setup means no long walks between holes.

For kids ages 5-8, the Wham-O set is the ideal starting point - lightweight, affordable, and designed for family fun. Older kids (9-12) who show interest in the sport can graduate to the Innova Mini DISCatcher set for a more authentic experience before transitioning to full-size disc golf. When they're ready for real discs, our best beginner discs guide covers the best options for new players.

Final Thoughts

Mini disc golf bridges the gap between casual backyard fun and serious disc golf practice. For families and party hosts, a mini set creates instant entertainment that anyone can enjoy. For competitive players, mini markers are essential tournament equipment that's fun to collect.

If you're looking for a gift for a disc golf fan, you can't go wrong with the Innova Mini DISCatcher Game Set for backyard play or the MVP Black Hole Micro for their desk. And if you're heading to your first tournament, grab a few mini markers - you'll need at least one, and you'll want a collection before long.