Cornhole is a popular lawn game in which players take turns throwing bean bags at a raised platform with a hole in the far end. The distance between the cornhole boards can vary depending on the level of play:

• Casual play: For casual play or backyard games, the cornhole boards are typically placed approximately 24 feet (7.32 meters) apart, measured from the front ends of the boards.
• Tournament or league play: In official tournament or league play, the cornhole boards are set at a distance of 27 feet (8.23 meters) apart, measured from the front ends of the boards.

Featured Answers

Place cornhole boards on a flat surface approximately 24 feet apart for casual play. Tournament or league play is set at 27 feet apart from the front ends of the boards. Divide players into two teams of one to two people.

Answered from Shyan

What Is The Distance Between Cornhole Boards?

As a cornhole enthusiast, one question newcomers often ask me to the game is how far apart the two boards should be set up. While backyard games can be more flexible, official tournaments follow strict professional distances. In this FAQ, I’ll cover everything you need to know about proper cornhole board spacing for different play scenarios.

What is the ideal distance for casual cornhole play?

For casual backyard or tailgate cornhole, placing the two boards about 24 feet apart from front edge to front edge is ideal. This allows a throwing distance of about 15-20 feet which is comfortable for social play.

What distance do official tournaments use?

In organized tournament play sanctioned by the American Cornhole Association, boards are spaced 27 feet apart from front to front. This greater distance raises the skill level for competitive play.

Should board distance be measured from front or back edges?

Measuring from the front edges of each cornhole board is the standard method. The front edges closest to the players are lined up at the proper distance, which allows pitching from directly in front of your board.

How can I measure out the distance accurately?

Marking off the distance in a yard is easy using a measuring tape. For tailgating or other portable play, tying a 27 foot rope between the front board edges quickly sets the right tourney spacing.

What’s the best way to set up on unlevel ground?

If ground is uneven, do your best to measure from board fronts and make the distance as even as possible. Leveling boards front-to-back is also important for consistent play.

Should kids or beginners play at shorter distances?

Absolutely! Adjusting cornhole distance based on age and skill level helps make the game enjoyable for everyone. Kids or new players may start as close as 15-20 feet until skills improve. Then work back gradually to 24 feet.

Is it okay to go longer than 27 feet for a bigger challenge?

Sure, experienced cornhole players can agree to play at 28, 29, or even 30 feet distances if they want to ratchet up the difficulty. Just keep a consistent distance on both sides.

How much space behind the boards is needed for full play?

Allow at least 10 feet behind each board for players to stand and maneuver. If possible, provide even more space for extra throwing practice area and safer play.

Should I regulate distance for casual play?

For backyard play, you don’t have to stick rigidly to exact measurements. Just eyeballing 24 feet between board fronts works fine. Focus on fun rather than technicalities!

What strategies change with longer distances?

More distance requires arching tosses high into the air to drop bags onto the board rather than lower direct shots. Stepping to the side can help bags curve better too.

Does weather affect ideal distance?

Yes, windy conditions may require shorter distances as bags will drift. Cold temperatures make bags slide further so spacing can be reduced. Heat also can impact bag performance.

Conclusion

With a recreational 24 feet or a pro 27 foot spacing, cornhole boards should be positioned at distances to match the players and environment. Backyard fun can be more flexible while tournaments adhere to standards. No matter the skill level, aligning the front edges and making both sides equal ensures an optimal setup for cornhole excitement!