Tired of arguing over cornhole rules at the tailgate? Sick of your cousin pulling out random “house rules” to win? We’ve got you covered with this quick, no-nonsense guide based on American Cornhole League (ACL) and American Cornhole Association (ACA) standards. Whether you’re a rookie or a pro, here’s everything you need to set up, play, and dominate.
Cornhole Board & Bag Basics
Board Size: Each cornhole board is 2 feet wide by 4 feet long
Hole Specs: A 6-inch diameter hole sits 9 inches from the top and 12 inches from each side.
Bag Specs: Square shape, assorted fabric types for increased slide/control, and 6x6 inches. You’ll need 8 total—4 in one color, 4 in another to differentiate from each player/team.
Pro Tip: Quality boards and bags (like these) make all the difference—customize ‘em to flex your style!
Setting Up Your Cornhole Court
How Far Apart Should Cornhole Boards Be
Court Layout: Two boards, 27 feet apart (front edge to front edge)—that’s the official cornhole distance.
Pitcher’s Box: A 3x4-foot zone on either side of each board where you toss from. (guestimation also works, no one's checking)
Lanes: Two pitcher’s boxes across from each other on opposite boards. In doubles, teammates stand in the same lane, not diagonally.
Foul Line: The front edge of the board operates as the final line between no-mans land. Don’t step over it, or you’re cheating!
Quick Setup Hack: Measure 27 feet once, mark it, and you’re golden for every game. Place some small stakes or other items that help you remember.
How to Play Cornhole
Singles (1v1): Both players throw from one end, aiming primarily for the hole or to block the other player's attempts.
Doubles (2v2): Teammates split up, one at each board, tossing from opposite ends.
Game Flow: Alternate throws until all 8 bags are tossed. The team that scored last round goes first next time.
Time Limit: Toss within 20 seconds of your last bag landing—keep it moving!
Foul Rules: No crossing the foul line, and bags hitting the ground before the board don’t count.
Scoring Made Simple
3 Points: The bag goes in the hole (sweet, sweet victory).
1 Point: The bag stays on the board. Leaning counts, just can't be touching the ground in any way.
Cancellation Scoring: Only one team scores per round. Subtract the lower score from the higher one. Example: Team A gets 8, Team B gets 6—Team A scores 2 points.
Winning the Game
Goal: Hit 21 points first—no “win by 2” nonsense required.
Inning Rule: If the first team hits 21, the other gets their final throws to catch up or steal the win. No mid-inning endings!
Match Play: The best of three games seals the champ.
Why Cornhole Rocks
Anyone Can Play: Kids, grandparents, tailgate legends—everyone’s invited.
Anywhere, Anytime: Backyards, beaches, parking lots—it’s the ultimate portable party game.
Skill + Chill: Easy to learn, tough to master. Perfect mix of strategy and smack talk.
Friendly Vibes: Competitive enough to keep it fun, laid-back enough to crack a cold one mid-game.
Level Up Your Cornhole Game
Tournaments: Local throwdowns or big ACL events with $100k+ prize pools—test your skills!
Leagues: Join one, play weekly, and make some cornhole buddies.
Custom Gear: Deck out your boards with your team’s logo (Victory Tailgate’s got you).
Practice Pays: Nail your aim, tweak your toss, and watch the bags fly true.
Let’s Toss Some Bags!
Cornhole isn’t just a game—it’s a vibe. From casual cookouts to epic tailgates, it’s the go-to for laughs, rivalries, and good times. Grab your boards, rally your crew, and let the bags fly. Newbie or seasoned tosser, this guide’s got everything you need to rule the court. Now, who’s up first?
