How Far Apart Are Cornhole Boards?

Cornhole is a classic game enjoyed by people of all ages, known for its fun, simple rules, and exciting competition. If you’re new to the game or setting up a cornhole tournament, one of the most important questions is: “How far apart are cornhole boards supposed to be?” Proper board spacing ensures fair gameplay and makes the game more enjoyable. This article will cover everything you need to know about cornhole board distances, setup, and tips for improving your game. Let’s get started!

How Far Apart Are Cornhole Boards in Standard Play?

In standard cornhole play, the distance between the front edges of the boards is 27 feet. This is the official distance used in most cornhole tournaments, including those organized by the American Cornhole Association (ACA) and the American Cornhole Organization (ACO). Playing at this distance ensures that the game is fair and challenging for players of all skill levels.

Why Is 27 Feet the Ideal Distance for Cornhole Boards?

The 27 feet distance has been standardized to make the game balanced and enjoyable. At this distance, players need both skill and strategy to successfully throw the bag into the hole or onto the board. The 27 feet spacing allows players enough room to aim, yet provides a challenge that keeps the game engaging.

Reasons for 27 Feet DistanceExplanation
Fair GameplayEnsures that all players have an equal chance to score
Balanced ChallengeCreates a reasonable level of difficulty without being too easy or hard
Standardized CompetitionAllows for consistent rules in tournaments

How Close Should Cornhole Boards Be for Beginners?

While 27 feet is the official distance, beginner players or younger children may find it too challenging. For casual play or when introducing new players to the game, setting the boards between 15 and 20 feet apart can make the game easier and more enjoyable. This allows new players to practice aiming without getting discouraged by the distance.

How to Measure the Distance Between Cornhole Boards Correctly?

To set up cornhole boards accurately, follow these steps:

Choose a Flat Surface: Set up your boards on a flat, level surface to ensure fair gameplay.

Use a Measuring Tape: Measure 27 feet from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.

Double-Check Alignment: Make sure the boards are aligned with each other, so players have a straight path to aim at.

Proper measurement ensures the game feels balanced and competitive, especially in official play.

What Is the Cornhole Board Setup for Different Playing Styles?

In cornhole, there are different styles of play, including doubles and singles. Here’s how to arrange the boards for each style:

Singles: In singles play, players take turns from the same board and switch sides after each round.

Doubles: In doubles, teammates stand opposite each other, with one member from each team at each board.

This setup ensures everyone has a fair chance to score, regardless of their position.

What Is the Official Cornhole Board Size?

Along with distance, the board size is essential in cornhole. The official size is 2 feet wide by 4 feet long with a 6-inch hole centered 9 inches from the top. Using the correct board size provides consistency and ensures players experience the game as intended.

How Can You Adjust Cornhole Board Distance for Indoor Play?

Indoor play might require shorter distances due to space limitations. In smaller spaces, you can set up boards between 20 and 25 feet apart. While this is closer than the official standard, it allows you to enjoy cornhole indoors without compromising the fun of the game.

How to Improve Your Aim When Playing Cornhole?

Improving aim is key to becoming a better cornhole player. Here are a few tips:

Practice Throwing Techniques: Focus on using the same throwing motion each time.

Aim for Consistency: Try to land the bag in a specific area of the board to improve control.

Adjust for Distance: Practice at different distances to develop a better sense of aim.

With practice, you can improve your accuracy and enjoy the game more.

Aim Improvement TipsBenefits
Consistent ThrowingBetter control over where the bag lands
Practice at Different DistancesHelps adapt to various distances
Aiming for a Target SpotImproves accuracy and scoring chances

What Are the Benefits of Playing Cornhole?

Cornhole is not only fun but also beneficial for your physical and mental well-being. Here are some benefits:

Improves Hand-Eye Coordination: Throwing a bag accurately requires good coordination.

Encourages Physical Activity: Playing outdoors or in a group can increase activity levels.

Enhances Social Connections: Cornhole is a great social game, often played at gatherings and events.

Benefits of Playing CornholeDescription
Hand-Eye CoordinationDevelops better aim and accuracy
Physical ActivityKeeps players moving and engaged
Social InteractionBrings people together in a friendly game

How to Maintain Your Cornhole Boards for Long-Lasting Use?

Cornhole boards require proper care to stay in good condition. Here are some tips to keep them in great shape:

Store Indoors When Not in Use: Keeping boards out of the rain and sun prevents wear.

Clean Regularly: Wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt.

Use Protective Coatings: Applying a protective coating can prevent scratches and damage.

Conclusion: How Far Apart Are Cornhole Boards?

In conclusion, the standard distance between cornhole boards is 27 feet for official play. This distance offers a balanced challenge for all players. For casual or beginner play, you can adjust the spacing to make the game more accessible. Proper measurement and setup make a difference in the overall experience, so make sure to follow these guidelines for the best results.

FAQs: How Far Apart Are Cornhole Boards?

Can I play cornhole indoors?


Yes, you can play cornhole indoors. Just adjust the board distance to 20–25 feet to fit your How high should cornhole boards be?


The back of the cornhole board should be 12 inches off the ground, while the front should sit around 4 inches.

What materials are best for cornhole boards?


Cornhole boards are typically made from plywood or MDF. Plywood is more durable for outdoor use.

Can children play cornhole?


Yes, children can enjoy cornhole. Just reduce the board distance to make it easier for them to throw.

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