Cornhole Board Distance: Setting Up for Success
If you've always played cornhole casually, you might not realize there's a designated distance for setting up the game correctly. While backyard rules can be more relaxed, it's good to be familiar with the official rules, especially if you plan to join a league or tournament. This guide will help you understand the proper setup for cornhole and offer tips for modifying the setup if needed.
Official Rules for Cornhole Board Distance
The American Cornhole Association governs the official rules of cornhole, ensuring consistency in gameplay. Best practices also help you achieve the best setup for optimal game play.
Key Measurements:
- Distance Between Boards (Adults): 27 feet from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.
- Distance Between Boards (Juniors): 21 feet from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.
Space Requirements:
- Length: Approximately 45 feet to accommodate the distance between boards and playing space.
- Width: 8 to 10 feet around the boards for the pitcher’s box, with 3 feet on each side of the boards.
- Multiple Boards Setup: Boards should be at least 12 feet apart in a straight line to accommodate multiple games.
Setting Up Your Cornhole Game
- Measure the Distance: Use a tape measure to ensure the boards are set up straight and at the correct distance. A chalk line can help keep the setup aligned.
- Board Elevation: The top end of each board should be slightly elevated, supported by the board’s legs.
- Pitcher’s Box: Ensure there is enough space around each board for players to stand and toss. The pitcher’s box should be about 3 feet wide on each side of the board.
Cornhole Gameplay and Scoring
Players and Teams:
- Play with 2-4 players, either as singles or teams.
- Each team should have a different color of beanbags.
- Each set of beanbags contains 4 bags.
Throwing and Scoring:
- Players must stay within the pitcher’s box during their toss.
- Each bag that lands on the board scores 1 point.
- Each bag that goes through the hole scores 3 points.
- Bags touching the ground or hanging off the board score zero points.
- Points are tallied after all 4 bags are thrown.
Modifying the Setup
If space is limited or a player is struggling with the distance, consider the following modifications:
- Adjust the Distance: For juniors or less experienced players, reduce the distance between the boards to 21 feet.
- Ensure Level Ground: A mix of hard and soft ground can help with bag bounce.
Enjoying Cornhole
Understanding the official setup and rules of cornhole will enhance your gameplay experience, whether you're playing casually or preparing for a tournament. For high-quality, custom-designed cornhole boards, check out Skips Garage. Enjoy the game and make the most of your cornhole setup!