You’ve seen the game at tailgates and backyard parties—two angled boards with a hole at the far end, players taking turns tossing beanbags toward the target. Cornhole, a beloved lawn game with a quirky name, is surging in popularity. But before hosting your own tournament, ensure you grasp the fundamentals, starting with the proper distance between cornhole boards. This crucial measurement impacts gameplay, strategy, and fairness. Read on to master setting up the ideal cornhole pitch for hours of friendly competition.
Official Regulation Distances for Cornhole Boards
Standard Court Setup
According to the official rules from the American Cornhole League (ACL), the regulation size for a cornhole court is 8 feet wide and 40 feet long, with a recommended vertical clearance of 12 feet. The cornhole boards should be placed 27 feet apart, measured from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.
Each board has a playing surface of 47.5″ to 48″ long by 23.5″ to 24″ wide, with a minimum thickness of 1/2″ or 3/4″. The front of the board sits 3″ to 4″ off the ground, while the back is 12″ high.
Pitcher’s Box and Foul Line
At each end of the court, a designated 4′ x 3′ pitcher’s box is marked on both sides of the cornhole boards. Players must keep one foot or appendage fully within this box when pitching the bags in an underhand motion. The front edge of the board serves as the foul line—players cannot step past this line when throwing.
Adjustments for Junior/Impaired Play
While the standard 27-foot distance is used for adult tournament and league play, the rules from PlayCornhole.org allow for adjustments when playing with juniors or those with physical impairments. In these cases, the foul lines can be brought closer together, to 12-15 feet between the front edges of the boards.
This shorter court length makes the game more accessible while still adhering to the core rules and gameplay. The cornhole boards themselves maintain the same dimensions regardless of the distance adjustment.
Ideal Cornhole Board Distances for Different Settings
Standard Distance for Adult Players
The official regulation distance for adult cornhole players is 27 feet between the front edges of the two boards, as set by the American Cornhole Association. This regulation distance provides the optimal challenge and gameplay experience for most adult players. A width of 8-10 feet surrounding each board is also recommended to accommodate the pitcher’s box area.
Shorter Distances for Juniors and Beginners
To make the game more accessible for younger players under 12 years old, as well as first-time players or seniors, the recommended cornhole board distance is reduced to just 12-15 feet. This shorter distance allows for an easier gameplay experience while still capturing the essence and fun of cornhole.
Properly Setting Up the Playing Area
No matter the chosen distance, it’s crucial to accurately measure and properly set up the cornhole playing area. Using a tape measure or specialized cornhole measurement tools can ensure the boards are positioned at the precise regulation distance. Additionally, finding a flat, level surface clear of obstacles optimizes gameplay. Optional additions like cornhole mats, lighting, and spectator seating can further enhance the overall experience.
How to Measure and Set Up Proper Cornhole Board Distance
Setting the Standard Distance
Proper cornhole board distance is crucial for an authentic and fair game. The standard regulation, set by the American Cornhole Association, is 27 feet between the front edges of the two boards for adult play. This measurement can be taken with a tape measure, by pacing it out at around 9-10 steps, or using a pre-attached string on some boards.
For younger players, the distance is reduced to 21 feet. Surrounding each board, there should be 8-10 feet of width, with about 3 feet on each side.
Board Positioning and Pitcher’s Box
Beyond the specified distance, proper cornhole setup involves angling the boards correctly. The front should sit 3-4 inches off the ground, while the back is elevated around 12 inches high. Players must remain within the designated pitcher’s box—a 4×3 foot rectangle on both sides of the boards—while throwing.
Accurate positioning not only adheres to official rules but also optimizes gameplay and scoring. Bags landing on the board earn 1 point, while those passing through the 6-inch centered hole score 3 points, per standard cornhole regulations.
Court Size and Clearance
For multiple side-by-side games, cornhole courts should have a minimum spacing of 12 feet between each set of boards to allow ample room. An indoor or covered court requires at least 12 feet of vertical clearance overhead.
Overall, a full regulation cornhole court spans 35×8 feet, with a total area of 280 square feet, as outlined by Dimensions.com. Proper measurements ensure a fair, enjoyable game for all skill levels.
Conclusion
As you continue your cornhole journey, remember the standard distance of 27 feet between boards. This carefully calculated measurement ensures fair play while still providing an engaging challenge. With the proper board placement, you can now fully immerse yourself in this beloved pastime, whether enjoying casual games with friends or competing in tournaments. Embrace the precise distances that make cornhole a timeless source of camaraderie and competitive spirit.
