32 Wood Fence Ideas Full of Rustic, Charming Inspiration

If you're looking to construct a wooden fence in your backyard for privacy but aren't quite sure what design is best for your space, you'll want to keep reading. We're sharing 33 wooden fences that are both budget-friendly and aesthetically pleasing, all while catering to a wide range of styles.

Whether you're in the mood for a farmhouse-inspired design or crave a look that's more modern, the following backyards, front yards, and beautiful exteriors are sure to inspire you.

Take a Cue from Ancient Times

This backyard features both a picket fence as well as a more rustic-looking fence made from tree branches, known as a wattle fence. Fun fact: this type of fence dates back to the Middle Ages, believe it or not.

Add an Arbor If You Wish

This fence features a gated arbor that adds some architectural intrigue and decorative flair to the yard. Note that arbors can come in many different shapes: some are also rounded or triangular.

Wave to Your Neighbors

This fence features horizontal rails and is low enough that it's still possible to engage with neighbors on the other side as you wish. The warm wood color complements this home's deck flooring nicely.

Think Tall

If privacy is top of mind, you can also opt for a fence that goes much higher up and prevents any view of neighboring yards. This simple wooden fence is a timeless solution.

Let the Light Shine Through

The rails on this horizontal wooden fence are less close together, allowing a little extra light to shine through. Lanterns adhered directly to the fence also provide additional illumination at night.

Pick a Versatile Style

This traditional tall wooden fence complements a wide range of home types. Whether your house is made from wood, vinyl, brick, or another material entirely, you can't go wrong with this pick.

DIY a Nook

Create your own little nook in the backyard by setting up a partial fence around your hot tub, as shown here. Add in some lounging essentials and prepare to sit back and zone out while enjoying a soak.

Bring on the Contrast

For a bit of contrast, pair a wooden fence with black beams. Or select another color of your choosing—a dark gray would look great here, too.

Introduce a Lattice Style Fence

This lattice style fence adds cottage-like charm to this cozy patio. The adjacent stone will is the real star of the show and transports us to the countryside immediately.

Don't Forget the Hooks

We love this clever way of displaying plants in the backyard: simply adhere pots or baskets to the fence using hooks and then fill them with a few small green friends.

Add Another Layer of Height

To extend the height of this white brick wall, a wooden fence was added on top, which not only adds some textural contrast but also provides lots of additional privacy.

Add Elegance to an Arbor

Take advantage of an arbor by draping it in florals or vines for a look that's extra dreamy and colorful. Over time as the vines grow, the fence will only become more storied and full of charm.

Note the Benefits of Split-Rail Fences

Split-rail fences are a farmhouse staple and are often more affordable and easier to construct, too.

Recreate a Country Cottage Scene

How enchanting is this wooden fence with a circular arbor and small gate? It looks like something right out of a storybook, if you ask us! Dress up your gate by hanging a small basket on the front and filling it with clippings from the garden.

Build Your Fence Around the Trees

Trees that extend above this wooden gate add an additional level of security in this backyard. The dark wooden rails play to those on the nearby pergola and make for a curated look.

Go with a Subtle Choice

If your yard is largely filled with plants or other decorations, keeping your wooden fence simple may be the best bet. This one is functional yet doesn't draw attention away from the greenery and florals present.

Try a Simple Wooden Picket Fence

The same goes in this instance, where plants of all kinds are growing right up against the fence. Here, a simple wooden picket fence does the job without being a distraction.

Treat Your Fence Like a Wall

If you wish, treat your fence as if it's a wall to decorate. Here, some outdoor sconces, a mirror, and even a couple of hanging plants add life and beauty to this outdoor area.

Mix and Match Fence Types

Many backyards feature multiple fence types. Here, a tall vertical wooden fence is paired with a black picket fence.

Add a Trellis to the Fence

In lieu of tearing down your fence and starting from scratch with a new design, think about ways you can spruce up an existing structure. For example, perhaps you could add a trellis to support climbing plants and bring additional beauty into your backyard.

Choose a Tried and True Design

Everyone loves a good, old-fashioned white picket fence. Refresh a wooden fence that has seen better days with a pop of paint and be amazed at what an impact this simple upgrade can make.

Add Some Arches

If you're craving a fence design that's a bit off the beaten path, experiment with curves, as seen here. Arches add lots of visual interest to any exterior.

Try a Classic Look with a Twist

If you'd rather keep things more simple but still appreciate a bit of flair, opt for this fence style, which combines simple rails with a curved arbor for just the right amount of fun.

Opt for Long-Lasting Redwood

A redwood fence steals the show in this backyard. Redwood is known for its sturdiness and durability, making for a smart, long-lasting pick.

Add Height to a Brick Ledge

Transform a brick ledge by adding fencing above it, as seen here. Allow vines to creep through the fence for a relaxed, natural look.

Paint Your Fence Black

Wood fences don't have to just be natural or white—why not paint yours black if you so desire? This fence adds a sophisticated touch to the spacious backyard shown here.

Stain Your Fence to Ensure Longevity

This fence received an upgrade in the form of a new stain, which also serves to protect it from the elements. If your existing fence could use some TLC, clean it off and take on a similar project to ensure it will last for years to come.

Maximize a Slatted Fence's Potential

Make the most of a slatted fence by decking it out with planters, string lights, and other fun accessories. This is an excellent way to work pops of color into your backyard, too.

Try a Stepped Fence

This is an example of a stepped fence, which features rails of various levels. If your yard has uneven terrain, this may be the best bet.

Attach a Hammock to the Fence

The addition of this DIY wood fence does more than just provide privacy—it also allows a hammock to easily hang in the backyard!

Create a Mini Lounge Area

Drape some fabric over your fence and push a makeshift daybed against it to design a mini lounge area that you'll enjoy using whenever the weather is nice. A woven basket looped over one of the fence slats with a string is the perfect finishing touch.

Add Decor Facing Your Side of the Yard

Once you construct your wooden fence, nail up some lights or a wooden panel to give it a personalized touch—since these decorations face your side of the yard, you won't have to worry about running them by your neighbors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What fence material is the cheapest?

Wood fencing is known for low-cost, and split rail fences are among the most affordable styles of wood fences.

Which wood fence design lasts the longest?

Redwood or wood that is treated will last longer than other options, regardless of specific fence design.