How to Play Cornhole: Rules, Scoring, and Court Setup
By YardGames.com | Published: 2026-10-13
Category: Handleidingen
Learn how to play cornhole with official rules, scoring, and court setup. Step-by-step instructions for a smooth game day.
Quick answer
To play cornhole, set two boards 27 feet apart, stand at one board, and toss bags at the opposite board. Score 3 points for a bag in the hole and 1 point for a bag on the board. The first team to 21 points wins, but you must win by at least 2 points or be the first to score 21 after a tie.
Cornhole court setup and distance
Set up two cornhole boards facing each other, with the front edges 27 feet apart. This is the standard distance for adults; for younger players or casual play, you can shorten it to 21 feet. The boards should be on a flat, level surface. The hole should be at the top, and the board should not wobble. If you're playing indoors, make sure you have enough space behind each board for players to stand and toss.
Cornhole rules: basic gameplay
Cornhole is played with two teams of one or two players. Each team stands at opposite boards. Players take turns tossing four bags each, alternating throws with the opposing team. The game is played in innings: one inning is complete when all eight bags have been thrown. The team that scores in an inning throws first in the next inning. If no team scores, the team that threw first in that inning throws first again.
Cornhole scoring explained
Only one team scores per inning. After all bags are thrown, compare the points: a bag in the hole is 3 points, and a bag on the board is 1 point. Cancel out the opposing team's points. For example, if Team A has 5 points and Team B has 3 points, Team A scores 2 points that inning. The first team to reach or exceed 21 points at the end of an inning wins, but if the score is tied at 21 or beyond, play continues until one team leads by 2 points.
Fouls and common mistakes
A foul occurs if a player steps past the front edge of the board while tossing. The bag is removed from play and cannot score. Another common mistake is throwing out of turn; if discovered, the bag is returned and the correct player throws. Also, bags that bounce off the ground and land on the board do not count. Only bags that are tossed and land directly on the board or go in the hole score.
Step-by-step cornhole game instructions
- Set up the boards: Place two boards 27 feet apart, facing each other. Ensure they are on a flat surface and do not wobble. Checkpoint: Measure the distance from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.
- Choose teams and sides: Divide into two teams of one or two players. Each team stands at opposite boards. Flip a coin or use any method to decide who throws first. Checkpoint: Make sure each player has four bags of the same color.
- Take turns tossing: Players alternate throws, with one player from each team tossing a bag, then the other team, and so on. Continue until all eight bags are thrown. Checkpoint: Do not step past the front edge of the board when tossing.
- Score the inning: After all bags are thrown, calculate points: 3 for a bag in the hole, 1 for a bag on the board. Cancel out the opposing team's points. The team with the higher net score adds that number to their total. Checkpoint: Only one team scores per inning.
- Determine the winner: The first team to reach or exceed 21 points at the end of an inning wins, unless the score is tied. If tied, play continues until one team leads by 2 points. Checkpoint: Keep track of the score to avoid disputes.
Recommended cornhole sets
- Alabama State Flag Cornhole Set: Alabama State Flag Cornhole Set features durable, high-quality boards with a vinyl decal flag image and cabinet grade 1/2" plywood tops. These regulation-size boards are built to last and show team spirit, making them great for fans of Alabama.
- Wolf Cornhole Set: Wolf Cornhole Set includes 24"x48" boards with folding legs, a clear coat polyurethane finish, and optional standard cornhole bags. The protective finish and folding legs make this set easy to store and transport for regular play.
- Penguin Wink Cornhole Boards: Penguin Wink Cornhole Boards are regulation 24" x 48" with folding legs and sturdy frame, meeting ACA tournament grade standards. These boards are tournament-ready and feature a unique artistic design, ideal for players who want both performance and style.
