Official Cornhole Rules: How to Play, Score & Set Up the Game

Cornhole is one of America's favorite backyard games, and for good reason. It's easy to learn, fun for all ages, and perfect for everything from family barbecues to competitive tournaments.

But whether you're playing your first game or organizing a neighborhood championship, knowing the official rules of cornhole makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

How far apart should cornhole boards be? How many points do you need to win? What happens if a bag bounces off the ground? And how does cancellation scoring work?

This complete beginner-friendly guide covers cornhole rules, board setup, scoring, gameplay, fouls, and frequently asked questions.

These instructions reflect widely used regulation rules. Specific tournament organizations, including the American Cornhole League (ACL) and American Cornhole Organization (ACO), may have additional requirements.

1. Cornhole Equipment: What Do You Need to Play?

A standard game of cornhole requires two boards and eight bags.

Regulation Cornhole Boards

Standard regulation cornhole boards have the following dimensions:

• Length: 48 inches (4 feet)

• Width: 24 inches (2 feet)

• Hole diameter: 6 inches

• Hole position: Centered horizontally, with its center 9 inches from the top edge

• Front height: Approximately 3–4 inches

• Rear height: Approximately 12 inches

Boards should have a smooth, sturdy playing surface and remain stable during gameplay.

For backyard games, smaller boards can also be used when space is limited.

Explore our Cornhole Boards Collection for recreational, regulation-size, and customizable options.

Cornhole Bags

A standard game uses eight bags divided into two sets of four, typically in contrasting colors.

Regulation-style bags are approximately 6 inches square, although exact dimensions, weights, and approved materials depend on the tournament organization.

Modern cornhole bags commonly use synthetic resin pellets and specialized fabrics designed for different playing speeds.

For casual backyard games, the most important thing is choosing bags that are durable, comfortable to throw, and appropriate for the players.

Browse our Cornhole Bags Collection to explore different options.

2. Cornhole Board Distance and Setup

One of the most common questions from new players is:

How far apart are cornhole boards supposed to be?

The regulation distance is 27 feet between the front edges of the two boards.

Position the boards directly across from each other, with their holes at the far ends.

Setting Up Your Cornhole Game

1. Find a reasonably level playing area.

2. Position the first cornhole board.

3. Measure 27 feet from its front edge.

4. Place the second board with its front edge at that distance.

5. Make sure both boards are stable and properly aligned.

6. Leave enough space around the boards for players to throw safely.

Cornhole Distance for Kids and Beginners

You don't have to use regulation distance for every backyard game.

For younger children, beginners, or players who need accommodations, moving the boards closer together can make the game more enjoyable.

The goal of recreational cornhole is to create a fun experience that everyone can participate in.

3. How to Score Cornhole

Cornhole scoring is simple once you understand the basics.

Where the bag lands	Points
Through the hole	3
On the board at the end of the round	1
On the ground or off the board	0
Touches the ground before landing on the board	0

A bag that remains on the board counts for one point, even if it is partially hanging over the hole.

A bag that passes completely through the hole earns three points.

What Is Cancellation Scoring?

Most regulation cornhole games use cancellation scoring.

This means both players' points are calculated at the end of a round, and the lower score is subtracted from the higher score.

Only the player or team with the higher round total earns points toward the game score.

Example of Cornhole Scoring

Player A throws four bags:

• Two bags through the hole = 6 points

• One bag on the board = 1 point

• One bag misses = 0 points

Player A's round total: 7 points

Player B throws four bags:

• One bag through the hole = 3 points

• Two bags on the board = 2 points

• One bag misses = 0 points

Player B's round total: 5 points

Using cancellation scoring:

7 − 5 = 2

Player A earns 2 points for the round.

This scoring system keeps games competitive and rewards consistent throwing.

4. How Do You Win a Game of Cornhole?

In standard regulation play, the first player or team to reach or exceed 21 points at the conclusion of a round wins.

You do not normally need to land on exactly 21 points.

For example, if your team has 19 points and earns 4 points in the next round, your final score is 23 and you win.

Common regulation rules do not require a two-point winning margin, although particular leagues and house rules may differ.

Some backyard groups use house rules, such as requiring exactly 21 points, but these should be agreed upon before starting.

5. How to Play Cornhole: Step-by-Step

Now that you know the equipment, distance, and scoring system, let's walk through a typical game.

Step 1: Choose Your Teams

Cornhole can be played as singles or doubles.

Singles: One player competes against another player.

Doubles: Two teams of two players compete, with teammates positioned at opposite ends of the court.

Each player uses four bags per round.

Step 2: Decide Who Throws First

A coin toss is a simple way to determine which player or team starts the game.

In subsequent rounds, the player or team that scored in the previous round typically throws first.

If neither side scored, the previous starting player or team retains the first throw.

Step 3: Alternate Throws

Players alternate throwing one bag at a time toward the opposite board.

Each player throws all four of their bags during the round.

Throws are delivered underhand in standard competitive play.

Step 4: Calculate the Score

After all eight bags have been thrown, calculate the points for each player or team.

Apply cancellation scoring to determine who earns points for that round.

Do not move bags until the scoring has been determined.

Step 5: Continue Playing

The next round begins with the appropriate player or team throwing first.

Continue until a player or team reaches or exceeds 21 points at the conclusion of a round.

6. Cornhole Foul Rules: What Is Not Allowed?

Even though cornhole is a relatively simple game, certain actions can result in a foul.

Stepping Over the Foul Line

The front edge of the cornhole board establishes the foul line.

Players must follow the foot-placement rules of the organization or event. In standard competitive play, stepping across the foul line during the throw can result in a foul.

Throwing From the Wrong Position

Players must throw from their designated pitcher's box or throwing lane.

Throwing from an unauthorized position may result in a foul bag.

Bags That Touch the Ground

A bag that contacts the ground before landing on the board is considered a dead bag and does not score.

This includes a bag that bounces off the ground and lands on the board.

Bags Touching the Ground and Board

If a bag comes to rest partly on the board but is also touching the ground, it does not score.

Interfering With Bags in Play

Players should not move or interfere with bags before the round is completed and scoring is determined.

Tournament rules may impose additional penalties for interference.

Throwing Out of Turn

Players should follow the established throwing order.

Competitive organizations may have specific procedures for handling violations.

What Happens After a Foul?

A foul bag is generally declared dead and removed from play, with additional procedures depending on the violation and tournament rules.

Some organizations use warnings or escalating penalties for repeated, officially observed violations.

For casual backyard games, players should agree on how to handle accidental rule violations before starting.

7. Singles vs. Doubles Cornhole Rules

Cornhole can be played in two common formats.

Singles Cornhole

Two players compete against each other.

Both players throw from the same end of the court toward the opposite board.

After completing the round and calculating the score, they move to the other end and throw back.

Doubles Cornhole

Four players compete as two teams.

One player from each team stands at each end of the court.

The two players at one end alternate throwing their bags toward the opposite board.

After scoring, the teammates at the other end throw the next round.

Doubles is especially popular for backyard gatherings, parties, and social leagues.

8. Official Cornhole Rules vs. Backyard House Rules

Not every cornhole game has to follow strict tournament regulations.

Many families and casual players adjust the rules to make games more accessible or entertaining.

Rule	Regulation-style play	Backyard variation
Board distance	27 feet	Shorter distance
Winning score	21 or more	11, 15, or 21
Scoring	Cancellation scoring	Simple cumulative scoring
Board size	2 × 4 feet	Smaller recreational boards
Teams	Singles or doubles	Flexible team arrangements
Throwing	Underhand	Agreed-upon casual rules

If you're playing casually, there's nothing wrong with adapting the game.

Just make sure everyone agrees on the rules before the first bag is thrown.

9. Tips for Beginners Learning Cornhole

Learning the rules is the first step. Improving your throwing technique makes the game even more enjoyable.

Start With a Comfortable Distance

If regulation distance feels challenging, begin closer to the board and gradually move back.

Use a Consistent Throwing Motion

Try to release each bag using a smooth, controlled underhand motion.

Focus on the Board First

Before attempting difficult airmails, practice landing bags consistently on the board.

Learn How Different Bags Play

Some cornhole bags slide faster than others. Understanding how your bags react to the board can help improve your accuracy.

Practice Cancellation Scoring

Keep score during casual games so the system becomes second nature.

Have Fun!

Cornhole is meant to bring people together. Don't worry if your first few throws miss the board.

Even experienced players started somewhere!

10. Frequently Asked Questions About Cornhole Rules

How far apart should cornhole boards be?

Regulation cornhole boards are positioned 27 feet apart, measured from front edge to front edge.

How many points do you need to win cornhole?

Standard games are played to 21 points. The first player or team to reach or exceed 21 points at the end of a round wins.

Do you have to get exactly 21 points in cornhole?

No. Under commonly used regulation rules, you can exceed 21 points without a penalty.

Do you have to win by two points?

No. Common regulation rules do not require a two-point winning margin.

How many bags do you throw in cornhole?

Each player throws four bags per round, with eight bags thrown between the two opposing players.

What happens if a cornhole bag bounces off the ground?

A bag that touches the ground before landing on the board is considered dead and does not score.

Can you knock an opponent's bag off the board?

Yes. Knocking an opponent's bag off the board with a legal throw is a legitimate strategy.

Can you push your own bag into the hole?

Yes! A legal throw can push another bag into the hole. Bags are scored according to their final positions or whether they pass through the hole.

What is the foul line in cornhole?

The foul line is established by the front edge of the board. Players must follow the applicable throwing-position rules.

Can children play cornhole?

Absolutely! Children can play using shorter distances, smaller boards, and age-appropriate equipment.

Are ACL and ACO cornhole rules exactly the same?

No. While the organizations share many fundamental gameplay rules, equipment approval requirements, competition procedures, and certain penalties may differ.

Always consult the applicable organization's current rulebook before participating in an officially sanctioned tournament.

11. Where to Find Official Tournament Cornhole Rules

For sanctioned tournaments, refer directly to the governing organization's published rules.

American Cornhole Organization (ACO)

Official rules: https://americancornhole.com/rules/

American Cornhole League (ACL)

Official website: https://www.iplaycornhole.com/

Tournament organizers may also establish additional event-specific requirements.

Final Thoughts: Learn the Rules and Let the Fun Begin

Cornhole is one of the easiest backyard games to learn, but understanding the rules makes it even more enjoyable.

With two boards, eight bags, and a little friendly competition, you can create hours of entertainment for friends and family.

Whether you're learning how to score your first game, practicing for a local league, or hosting a backyard tournament, the most important thing is to have fun.

At CornholeBags.com — The Cornhole Superstore, we make it easy to find cornhole bags, boards, and accessories for beginners and experienced players alike.

More Fun Starts Here!