If you’ve ever set up a backyard cornhole game and had someone yell, “Nahhh, that’s definitely not 27 feet!” — welcome to the club. Cornhole might be a chill lawn game, but the spacing between boards is surprisingly serious business.
So let’s settle the debate once and for all.
Whether you’re playing at a weekend BBQ, a tailgate, or leveling-up to competitive matches, knowing the correct board distance, dimensions, and rules keeps the game fair, fun, and totally drama-free.
Let’s break down the exact numbers, beginner-friendly adjustments, and pro-approved setup tips.
What Is the Official Regulation Cornhole Distance Between Boards?
The official cornhole distance between boards is 27 feet — measured from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.
Yep, not from the center, not from the back, not from wherever your cousin “thinks” it should be.
Front-to-front. Exactly 27 feet.
This distance comes from the American Cornhole League (ACL) standard and helps ensure:
- Bags have consistent travel distance
- Scoring remains balanced
- The game feels competitive but not impossible
Casual Cornhole Distance (Backyard-Friendly Spacing)
If you’re not playing competitively, feel free to shorten the space. Most casual players go with 18–24 feet, depending on yard size, skill levels, and how many “fun beverages” are involved.
Cornhole Distance for Kids & Beginners
Not everyone needs the full 27 feet. Shorter spacing keeps the game enjoyable for kids and new players:
- Kids: 12–18 feet
- Beginners: 15–21 feet
If you’re teaching someone the game, reducing the distance saves them from the heartbreak of bag after bag landing three feet short.
How to Measure Corn Hole Spacing Accurately
You only need two tools:
- A measuring tape
- Something to mark the ground (chalk, string, a shoe… whatever works)
Step 1: Place board #1 where you want it.
Step 2: Measure exactly 27 feet forward.
Step 3: Place board #2 with its front edge touching that final mark.
Step 4: Align the boards so they face each other perfectly.
A crooked setup makes the game harder — and somebody will complain about it.
Cornhole Board Dimensions You Should Know
The official dimensions are pretty straightforward:
- Board size: 48 inches (length) × 24 inches (width)
- Hole diameter: 6 inches
- Hole placement: 9 inches down from the top
- Front height: 3–4 inches off the ground
- Back height: 12 inches off the ground
- Board angle: Roughly 10 degrees
These measurements are designed to create the perfect slide, bounce, and scoring balance.
Why Dimensions Matter in Cornhole
A board that’s too short, too tall, or too steep changes how the bags behave.
Think of it like leveling a countertop — everything needs to line up right, just like when you’re installing or checking household fixtures. If you’re into measurements, you might like exploring how precise everyday standards can be, such as the standard kitchen counter height.
Cornhole Game Rules You Should Know
Cornhole is simple — but it still has official rules that make the game fair (and reduce those endless arguments).
Basic Scoring
- 1 point: Bag lands on the board
- 3 points: Bag goes through the hole
- Cancellation scoring: Your score for the round = your points − opponent’s points
Example:
You score 7, they score 4 → You get 3 points.
Gameplay Format
- Played in teams of 2 or head-to-head
- Game usually goes to 21 points
- You must throw from behind the foul line
- The foul line is based on—yep—the 27-foot spacing
Throwing Rules
- You cannot cross the foul line
- Bags must be thrown underhand
- Bags that hit the ground first do not score
Common Cornhole Setup Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Even if you get the distance right, these mistakes can ruin the vibe:
1. Boards Not Level
A slanted or uneven board makes throws unpredictable.
Try adjusting the back legs or moving to a flatter spot.
2. Wrong Spacing
Eyeballing the distance rarely works.
Measure — even if it’s a casual game.
3. Poor Lighting
Evening games get chaotic fast when players can’t see the board.
4. Uneven Ground
Flat ground improves bounce and bag landing consistency.
5. Backyard Layout Issues
If your playing space is irregular — fences, patios, or landscaping in the way — consider reorganizing your yard flow. For example, people designing game areas often think about outdoor spacing the same way they would plan features like a ranch-style fence to create a clean, functional area.
FAQ — Quick Answers
How far apart are cornhole boards for official tournaments?
27 feet, front edge to front edge.
How far apart do you place boards for backyard play?
18–24 feet works perfectly.
How far apart should boards be for kids?
12–18 feet depending on age.
Do board dimensions affect gameplay?
Absolutely — wrong angles or heights can change the difficulty drastically.
Why does corn hole spacing even matter?
Consistency. Fair play. Better scoring. And fewer arguments.
Conclusion
So the official distance is clear: 27 feet front-to-front.
Whether you’re setting up a tournament-style match or just tossing bags at a weekend hangout, getting the spacing right instantly makes the game smoother and more exciting.
Now grab a tape measure, align those boards, and let the games begin. 🎯
