How to Set Up the Perfect Cornhole Court: Step-by-Step Guide

October 6, 2024

How to Set Up the Perfect Cornhole Court: Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you’re playing a casual game in your backyard or hosting a competitive tournament, setting up a cornhole court properly can make all the difference. While cornhole is a simple game to play, ensuring your boards and bags are placed at the correct distances and angles will help you have a smoother and more enjoyable experience.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll show you how to set up the perfect cornhole court, from measuring board distances to marking the foul line. Whether you’re following American Cornhole League (ACL), American Cornhole Association (ACA), or Texas Cornhole Organization (TCO) standards, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into creating the ideal setup for your next game.

Step 1: Get the Right Cornhole Equipment

Before you start setting up your cornhole court, make sure you have the proper equipment. A standard cornhole setup includes two boards and eight bags. Here’s what to look for:

Boards

Dimensions: Regulation boards are 48 inches long and 24 inches wide. The hole is 6 inches in diameter and should be centered, with the hole’s center located 9 inches from the top of the board.
Board Height: The back of the board (the side with the hole) should be 12 inches off the ground, while the front should be around 3-4 inches off the ground, creating a proper slope.
Materials: Boards can be made of wood, plastic, or composite materials, but most competitive players prefer wooden boards for better consistency.

Bags

Dimensions: Cornhole bags should be 6 inches by 6 inches.
Weight: Regulation bags must weigh between 14 and 16 ounces. The filling can be either traditional corn kernels or plastic resin, with the latter being more durable and weather-resistant.

Step 2: Measure the Distance Between Boards

One of the most important aspects of setting up your cornhole court is making sure the boards are placed the correct distance apart. The official regulation distance is 27 feet from the front edge of one board to the front edge of the other.

How to Measure the Distance:

Start by placing one board in its desired location.
Use a tape measure to mark exactly 27 feet from the front edge of the first board to where the front edge of the second board will be placed.
Place the second board at the marked location.

Quick Tip:

If you’re playing with younger kids or beginners, feel free to reduce the distance between the boards to make the game more approachable. A good starting point for younger players is about 15 to 20 feet apart.

Step 3: Mark the Foul Line

The foul line is a key part of any cornhole court, as it determines where players must stand while throwing their bags. The foul line is located at the front edge of the board, and players must remain behind this line while throwing.

Foul Line Guidelines:

Player Positioning: Players must stay behind the foul line (the front edge of the board) when they release the bag. If a player steps over the line before releasing the bag, it is considered a foot fault, and the bag does not count.
Marking the Foul Line: If you’re playing on grass or dirt, you can use small cones, flags, or chalk to mark where players should stand. On concrete or other hard surfaces, simply use tape or other non-permanent markers.

Pro Tip:

In competitive play, the pitcher’s box—the area next to the board where the player stands—is 3 feet wide. Make sure your playing area has enough space on either side of the boards for players to stand and throw comfortably.

Step 4: Set Up the Pitcher’s Boxes

A pitcher’s box is the designated area from which players must throw their bags. Each player must throw from their own box, located on either side of the board.

Pitcher’s Box Dimensions:

The pitcher’s box extends 3 feet to either side of the board.
Players must remain within this area while throwing their bags and stay behind the foul line during their toss.

Singles Play:

In Singles, both players stand at the same end of the court. They alternate throws until all bags have been tossed and then walk to the other end to retrieve their bags.

Doubles Play:

In Doubles, one teammate stands at one board and the other teammate stands at the opposite board. They each remain at their respective ends for the entire game, alternating throws with the opposing team.

Step 5: Ensure Proper Court Space

It’s essential to have enough space around your cornhole court to allow for smooth gameplay. This means not only setting up the boards correctly but also ensuring the surrounding area is clear of obstacles or distractions.

Space Considerations:

Behind the Boards: Leave at least 5 feet of space behind each board to give players room to stand and throw.
Between Boards: The standard distance between boards is 27 feet, but make sure there’s some extra space on either side for players to move freely.
Spectator Areas: If you have spectators or additional players waiting to play, make sure they stay at a comfortable distance from the boards to avoid distractions and interference.

Pro Tip:

If you’re setting up a cornhole court for a larger event, consider creating a barrier or designated area around the court to keep non-players from walking through or getting too close to the boards.

Step 6: Consider Weather Conditions

Cornhole can be played both indoors and outdoors, but if you’re setting up your court outside, it’s important to consider the weather. Wind, rain, and heat can affect how the game is played, so keep the following tips in mind when setting up an outdoor court:

Wind:

Wind can greatly affect the trajectory of the bags. If possible, set up your boards in a location that’s sheltered from the wind or adjust your throwing technique to compensate for gusts.

Sun:

Direct sunlight can impact visibility and make it harder to focus on the boards. If you’re playing in sunny conditions, consider positioning the boards so the sun isn’t directly in the players' eyes.

Rain:

If you’re playing in light rain or after a recent downpour, be aware that wet boards can cause bags to slide or bounce unpredictably. In wet conditions, it’s a good idea to wipe down the boards before starting and use resin-filled bags, as they handle moisture better than traditional corn-filled bags.

Indoor Play:

If you’re setting up an indoor court, make sure there’s plenty of lighting and enough ceiling height to allow for proper arc during throws.

Step 7: Final Check—Ready for Play!

Before you start your game, do a quick final check to make sure everything is set up correctly. Here’s a simple checklist to run through:

Boards: Are they 27 feet apart, front edge to front edge, and aligned straight?
Bags: Are your bags regulation size and weight? Are they in good condition for gameplay?
Foul Line: Is the foul line clearly marked or visible for all players?
Pitcher’s Boxes: Are the pitcher’s boxes set up on either side of the board with enough space for players to stand and throw?
Space: Is there enough room around the court for players to move comfortably? Is the playing area clear of obstacles and distractions?

Bonus Tip: Customizing Your Cornhole Court

If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your cornhole court, there are a few fun ways to customize your setup. Here are some ideas:

Custom Boards: Many players enjoy customizing their boards with team logos, family names, or unique designs. You can buy pre-made custom boards or decorate your own.
Scoreboards: Add a simple cornhole scoreboard near your court to keep track of the game. You can use a chalkboard, whiteboard, or a portable cornhole scoreboard designed specifically for the game.
Lighting for Night Play: If you plan on playing in the evening or at night, consider adding some lighting around your cornhole court. Portable LED lights, glow-in-the-dark bags, or light-up boards are fun options for nighttime games.

Conclusion: Set Up Your Cornhole Court Like a Pro

Setting up a cornhole court may seem simple, but taking the time to get the details right can make your game more enjoyable and fair for everyone. By ensuring proper board distance, marking foul lines, and allowing enough space for players to throw comfortably, you’ll have the perfect setup for both casual and competitive play.

Now that your court is set up, grab your bags, get your friends together, and enjoy a fun game of cornhole! Whether you’re hosting a small backyard gathering or preparing for a tournament, this guide will help you create the ideal cornhole experience.

Back to blog

Language