Cornhole is one of the easiest outdoor games to learn, but setting up the boards correctly makes a big difference to how the game feels. Whether you are playing in the backyard, at a BBQ, on the beach or in a more competitive setting, the distance between the boards is one of the most important things to get right.
So, how far apart are cornhole boards?
The official cornhole board distance is 27 feet between the front edges of the two boards. This is the standard distance used for adult play and competitive games. For casual games, children or beginners, the boards can be placed closer together to make the game easier and more enjoyable.
In this guide, we explain the correct cornhole board distance, how to measure it, where players should stand, and how to adjust the setup for different ages and skill levels.
Official Cornhole Board Distance
The official distance between cornhole boards is:
27 feet from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other board.
This means you should measure from the lower front edge of one cornhole board directly across to the lower front edge of the opposite board. The boards should face each other, with the holes positioned toward the far end of each board.
This setup creates the standard playing distance for adult cornhole games. It gives players enough challenge while still keeping the game fun and accessible.
If you are setting up a proper cornhole court, make sure the boards are aligned straight and placed on a flat surface. Even small differences in angle or distance can affect how the bags land and slide.
How to Measure Cornhole Board Distance
To set up your cornhole boards correctly, follow these steps:
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Place the first board on a flat surface.
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Make sure the front edge of the board is facing the opposite side of the court.
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Measure 27 feet from the front edge of the first board.
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Place the front edge of the second board at that 27-foot mark.
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Check that both boards are directly facing each other.
The most common mistake is measuring from the hole or the back of the board instead of the front edge. For the correct cornhole setup, always measure from front edge to front edge.
If you do not have a measuring tape, you can estimate the distance for casual play, but for the best experience it is worth measuring it properly.
How Far Apart Are Cornhole Boards for Beginners?
For beginners, children or casual backyard games, you do not always need to use the full 27-foot distance. In fact, placing the boards too far apart can make the game frustrating for new players.
A good beginner-friendly distance is usually between 15 and 21 feet. This makes it easier to reach the board and score points, while still keeping the game fun and competitive.
For very young children, you can move the boards even closer. The goal is to make sure everyone can participate and enjoy the game.
Cornhole is easy to adapt, which is one of the reasons it works so well for family gatherings, garden parties and outdoor events.
Cornhole Board Distance for Kids
When children are playing cornhole, the boards should usually be placed closer together than the official adult distance.
A good starting distance for kids is around 12 to 15 feet between the front edges of the boards. Younger children can stand even closer if needed.
As children get better, you can gradually increase the distance. This helps them improve their aim and throwing technique without making the game too difficult from the start.
For family games, it is completely fine for children and adults to use different throwing distances. Kids can stand closer to the board, while adults use the standard distance or a longer casual distance.
Where Do You Stand When Playing Cornhole?
Players stand next to the cornhole board when throwing. The front edge of the board acts as the foul line.
This means players should not step past the front of the board when they throw. In a standard game, each player throws from the same side of the board during a round.
There are usually two pitching areas beside each board, one on the left and one on the right. Players stand in these areas and take turns throwing their bags toward the opposite board.
For casual games, you do not need to be overly strict, but for competitive play the foul line matters.
Cornhole Court Setup
A standard cornhole setup includes two boards placed opposite each other with a clear throwing area around them.
For adult play, the court should include:
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Two cornhole boards facing each other
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27 feet between the front edges of the boards
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Space beside each board for players to stand
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A flat playing surface
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Enough room around the court for safe throwing
Cornhole can be played on grass, concrete, sand, turf or other flat surfaces. Grass is popular for backyard games, while smoother surfaces can affect how the bags slide.
If you are playing at a party or event, make sure there is enough space behind and beside the boards so people can move safely.
Does the Surface Matter?
Yes, the playing surface can affect the game.
On grass, bags may stop more quickly after landing. On smoother surfaces, the bags may slide more. On sand or uneven ground, the boards may not sit perfectly flat, which can change how the bags behave.
For the best experience, place the boards on a flat and stable surface. If the boards wobble, shift or sit unevenly, it can make the game less consistent.
That said, Cornhole is a very flexible outdoor game. It can be played in the garden, at the beach, in the park, at a campsite or during an event.
How Far Apart Are Cornhole Boards for Tournaments?
For tournament play, cornhole boards should be placed at the standard adult distance of 27 feet from front edge to front edge.
This is the distance used for official adult games and competitive play. It ensures that all players compete under the same conditions.
If you are hosting a casual tournament at a party or company event, you can still use the official distance. However, if many players are beginners, it may be better to shorten the distance slightly so the game stays fun for everyone.
For mixed groups, consider having two setups: one standard court and one shorter beginner-friendly court.
Cornhole Distance: Front Edge or Hole?
One of the most common questions is whether to measure the distance between the holes or between the boards.
The correct answer is:
Measure from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other board.
Do not measure from hole to hole. Do not measure from the back edge of the boards. The official cornhole distance is based on the front edges of the boards.
This is the easiest way to set up the game correctly and avoid confusion.
Can You Adjust the Distance?
Yes. For official adult play, the distance should be 27 feet. But for casual games, the distance can be adjusted.
You may want to shorten the distance if:
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Children are playing
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Beginners are joining
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You have limited space
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You are playing at a party
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The goal is casual fun rather than competition
Cornhole is meant to be enjoyable, so it is better to adjust the distance than to make the game too difficult for the group.
A shorter distance can help new players feel more involved and make the game more entertaining.
Quick Cornhole Distance Guide
Here is a simple guide:
Official adult distance: 27 feet front edge to front edge
Beginner distance: 15 to 21 feet
Kids’ distance: 12 to 15 feet
Very young children: Adjust as needed
Tournament play: 27 feet front edge to front edge
For the most accurate setup, always measure from the front of one board to the front of the other board.
Tips for Setting Up Cornhole Boards
To get the best playing experience, keep these setup tips in mind:
Place the boards on a flat surface. This helps the bags land and slide more consistently.
Make sure the boards face each other directly. If they are angled, the game can feel unfair or awkward.
Leave enough space around the boards. Players need room to stand, throw and move safely.
Use the correct distance for your group. Official distance is best for experienced players, while shorter distances are better for beginners and children.
Check the boards before playing. Stable boards make the game more enjoyable and consistent.
Why Correct Board Distance Matters
The distance between cornhole boards affects the entire game.
If the boards are too close together, the game may feel too easy for experienced players. If they are too far apart, beginners may struggle to reach the board and lose interest.
The official 27-foot distance creates the right balance for adult play. It requires accuracy, control and consistency without making the game impossible.
For casual play, the best distance is the one that keeps the game fun for everyone.
Final Thoughts
So, how far apart are cornhole boards?
For official adult play, cornhole boards should be placed 27 feet apart, measured from front edge to front edge. This is the standard setup for competitive and traditional cornhole games.
For beginners, children or casual games, it is perfectly fine to move the boards closer together. A shorter distance makes the game more accessible and helps everyone enjoy playing.
Whether you are setting up Cornhole for a backyard BBQ, a garden party, a family gathering or a company event, getting the board distance right is the first step to a better game.
