In-Ground Trampolines: Everything You Should Know

An in-ground trampoline helps improve the appearance of your yard. It’s safer than above-ground trampolines and allows easier access. However, installation costs and inadequate flexibility can be a challenge.

If you are one of those who are looking into having a this article covers everything you should know about in-ground trampolines.

We’ll discuss the cost, installation process, safety, and pros and cons of in-ground trampolines to help you choose the best option for your yard. Let’s get started!

How Much Does It Cost To Put A Trampoline In The Ground?

The cost of putting a trampoline in the ground varies significantly depending on the quality of the retaining wall, the trampoline model, labor costs, and extra accessories (such as an enclosure net).

You can expect to spend between $1,200 and $3,000 for a DIY installation. A professional installing the in-ground trampoline in your yard will cost you between $1,800 and $4,000.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs:

Trampoline kit: $300 – $2,000
Digging a pit: $400 – $1,500
Building a retaining wall: $20 per square foot for concrete and $15 for wood

How Do You Install an In-Ground Trampoline?

1. Choose The Right Trampoline Model And Size

Before digging a hole for the trampoline, you should decide on a suitable trampoline size for your backyard.

Once that’s out of the way, select a trampoline with a good installation kit.

Some of the top brands that make high-quality in-ground trampolines include:

Skywalker
Bazoongi
Zupapa
Jumpsport

A cover can trap moisture on the trampoline’s surface, allowing mildew to grow. So, if you use a cover, remove it regularly to let your trampoline dry out. If snow accumulates on top of the cover, use a broom to clear it off, just as you would if the jumping bed is exposed.

2. Decide Where To Dig A Hole

Digging a pit for an in-ground trampoline can be expensive. That’s why you should get it right the first time.

We recommend starting with a simple scale drawing of your yard to determine the optimum trampoline position.

After picking a spot, dig a hole one foot wider than the trampoline frame while leaving room for the retaining wall. This will ensure sufficient airflow and bounce.

3. Build A Drainage System

Building a proper drainage system will keep our in-ground trampoline free of water and protect the frame from rust.

Here are some tips to get you started:

Inspect the quality of your soil and your water table to determine the right drainage system
Use a mesh over the openings of the drain pipe to keep debris out and prevent the pipe from clogging
Create a slight angle to the outer hole edge to help drain the water into the inner hole

4. Build The Retaining Wall

Building the retaining wall is the second last step of installing an in-ground trampoline. You can do it yourself if you’re a handyman or hire a landscaping company to do it for you.

Once the retaining wall is ready, it’s time to stick the trampoline for the finishing touches.

Can You Dig A Normal Trampoline Into The Ground?

Yes, you can dig a normal trampoline into the ground. However, we recommend using an in-ground over an above-ground trampoline when installing a trampoline into the ground.

Inserting a normal trampoline into the ground may give you a substandard result and prove costly down the line.

Normal trampolines aren’t designed to be in constant contact with soil and moisture. When dug into the ground, they’ll quickly start to corrode.

The springs, legs, and frames will rust and become weak, prompting you to replace them sooner than usual.

Using an in-ground trampoline is much better since it’s specifically designed to sit on the ground.

Are In-Ground Trampolines Safer?

Yes, in-ground trampolines are safer than regular trampolines since they are closer to the ground.

Other reasons that make in-ground trampolines safer include the following:

They don’t tip and aren’t easily damaged by high winds
There is no risk of injury when kids are getting on/off the trampoline
In-ground trampolines are easier to keep dry and protect
Pet can’t go underneath them

Note that in-ground trampolines are not entirely without risk. Your kids might still get injured while using them.

We recommend installing safety pads and an enclosure net around the trampoline to ensure maximum safety.

You should also follow essential trampoline safety rules, just as you would with a regular trampoline.

In-Ground Trampoline Advantages

Aesthetics

In-ground trampolines create a pleasant, minimal look in your yard and provide several options for customizing your landscape around the trampoline.

You can build a good-looking retaining wall, set up your drainage to direct the water where you want it to go, and even create a sitting area around the trampoline where adults can sit and talk while the kids jump.

Stability

In-ground trampolines are very stable since they are anchored to the ground. Thus, there’s no way for them to tip.

Easy Access

In-ground trampolines provide easy access by allowing users to walk in or out of the trampoline instead of climbing.

In-Ground Trampoline Disadvantages

You Can't Move Them

The biggest disadvantage of installing an in-ground trampoline is that you can’t move it like a normal trampoline. You’ll have to dig a new hole where you want to move the trampoline and repair the previous hole.

Switching to a different trampoline model is quite cumbersome.

If looks matter to you and you don’t plan on moving or switching your trampoline, then an in-ground trampoline is a great option.

Relatively Costly

Installing an in-ground trampoline can be quite expensive since you must dig a hole, set up a drainage system, and build a retaining wall. In-ground trampoline kits aren’t cheap either and may cost up to $2,000.

However, you can offset the total cost with a DIY installation.

They Don't Have The Best Bounce

Without proper ventilation and airflow, in-ground trampolines aren’t as bouncy as regular trampolines.

Final Thoughts on In-Ground Trampolines

An in-ground trampoline is ideal when you’ll be living in the same place for a long time and want a trampoline in your yard without compromising on aesthetics. Overall, in-ground trampolines are safer than regular trampolines, but you’ll still need to follow essential trampoline safety rules. Cost is the most significant barrier of an in-ground trampoline, but you can reduce it through a DIY installation.