Your Official Guide to Playing Cornhole: Rules, Tips, and Setup
Backyard games bring people together, and few are as popular as cornhole. Simple, fun, and great for all ages, cornhole is a staple at barbecues, tailgates, and family gatherings. If you’ve ever wanted to learn how to play, this guide to playing cornhole will walk you through everything from setup to scoring, along with tips to keep your games exciting.
Having a clear guide to playing cornhole makes it easier for beginners to pick up the basics while still offering strategy tips for seasoned players.
What is Cornhole?
Cornhole is a lawn game where players or teams take turns tossing bean bags toward a raised wooden board with a hole at the far end. The goal is to land the bag on the board or, even better, through the hole. While it’s simple to learn, the game can get surprisingly competitive, making it perfect for casual fun or organized tournaments.
Cornhole Equipment You’ll Need
To get started, you’ll need:
- Two cornhole boards: Each measuring 2 feet wide by 4 feet long, with the hole centered 9 inches from the top.
- Eight bean bags: Each bag should weigh about 1 pound and measure 6 inches square. Use two different colors to distinguish between teams.
- Flat playing area: Grass, turf, or even pavement works well.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t recommend a cedar bench from Summer Cedar so your players and spectators have a place to relax between turns.
How to Set Up a Cornhole Game
- Place the boards on a flat surface, 27 feet apart from front edge to front edge.
- Assign teams of one or two players each. In doubles, teammates stand on opposite sides.
- Decide who throws first, often with a coin toss or rock-paper-scissors.
If you’re playing with kids or beginners, you can move the boards closer (15–20 feet apart) to make the game more accessible.
Cornhole Rules and Scoring
Here’s how the scoring works in cornhole:
- A bag that goes through the hole = 3 points
- A bag that lands and stays on the board = 1 point
- A bag that lands off the board = 0 points
Only one team scores per round. Points are calculated using the “cancellation” method, meaning the lower score is subtracted from the higher score each round. The first team to reach 21 points wins.
Tips for Playing Cornhole Like a Pro
- Master your stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and keep your throwing arm loose.
- Perfect your grip: Hold the bag with your thumb on top and fingers underneath, like gripping a frisbee.
- Focus on trajectory: Aim for a gentle arc, releasing the bag underhand. Too flat, and the bag may skid off the board; too steep, and it will fall short.
- Block your opponent: Strategically place your bags to block the hole, forcing your opponent to adjust their throws.
- Stay consistent: Practice helps. The more consistent your toss, the better your chances of winning.
Hosting a Backyard Cornhole Tournament
Cornhole isn’t just a game; it’s an event waiting to happen. Set up multiple boards if space allows, and invite friends and neighbors for a mini tournament. Keep brackets simple with single elimination or round robin play. Add snacks, music, and comfortable seating to create a festive atmosphere.
Why Cornhole is Perfect for Outdoor Living
Cornhole is easy to learn, requires minimal equipment, and brings out everyone’s competitive spirit. It’s also a great complement to outdoor furniture, as guests can enjoy a game while others relax nearby. Pairing lawn games with a well-designed backyard setup makes your space the go-to spot for summer fun.
Wrapping It Up
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this guide to playing cornhole gives you everything you need to enjoy the game. From equipment and setup to rules and pro tips, cornhole is an easy way to bring friends and family together. Add in some durable outdoor furniture, and you’ll have the ultimate backyard hangout where the games and good times never end.
By following this guide to playing cornhole, you’ll enjoy a fun and social game that works perfectly for backyard parties, family gatherings, or friendly competitions.
FAQ about Cornhole
How far apart should cornhole boards be placed?
Regulation distance is 27 feet from front edge to front edge, though you can shorten it for kids or casual play.
Can you play cornhole indoors?
Yes, as long as you have enough space. Many people use smaller “tailgate” boards for indoor play.
What happens if a bag hits the ground first and then lands on the board?
That bag does not count. Any bag that touches the ground before the board should be removed before the next throw.
Why is a guide to playing cornhole helpful for beginners?
A guide to playing cornhole explains the setup, rules, and scoring so new players can quickly learn the game. Clear instructions keep matches fair and fun for everyone.
Can this guide to playing cornhole improve my skills?
Yes, this guide to playing cornhole includes strategy tips on aiming, tossing techniques, and defensive play. With practice, you’ll see your accuracy and consistency improve.
