How much cornhole have you played? This awesome game has quickly become one of America’s favorite pastimes. It can be tons of fun and there are so many different reasons to play. You can use it for events, parties, and fun family time. So what are you waiting for? 

Take a look at these cornhole rules and get started playing! 

Cornhole is all about the fun. This simple bean bag toss game has endless options and the rules are pretty basic. Whether you want to play in a league, head to some competitions, or just enjoy fun with friends and family, we’ve got you covered. We will talk about rules, tips and tricks, and even some cornhole history for you, too! 

The History of Cornhole

Let’s start at the beginning. The first cornhole games are said to have originated from Germany, although this is mostly anecdotal, so we aren’t 100% sure about the origins. We also don’t know exactly when it started, but there is historical evidence that dates back to at least the 14th century. 

Those stories mention players that threw corn or even beans into small holes in wood. In medieval times, there was a game known as Kegeln. In that game, they threw stones at skittles. It’s quite possible the game we know came from one or both of these things. 

Of course, finding the proof behind the origins is challenging, and with it clearly dating back several centuries, it’s impossible to know exactly what brought us the game we know today. But we do know that regardless of the history, we love cornhole! 

In 2002, The American Cornhole Association was founded. The association is responsible for developing and managing the official rules and regulations, allowing some official terminology, and providing the ability to enjoy competitions. 

Why the Name Cornhole?

The name is pretty obvious, isn’t it? In the game of cornhole, you’re tossing a corn-filled bean bag right into a hole. Now, while some of those bags are no longer filled with corn, it’s the same concept. 

Remember how we talked about the game possibly originating from Germany? Well, the similar game in German was known as “korn hole,” which ultimately translates to “grain hole.” And this is where the German origins tend to make more sense. 

In fact, they say that cornhole came to America with German immigrants sometime in the 1800s. At that time, those cloth bags were filled with dried corn. Today, it’s corn kernels, or the alternative plastic pellets that are commonly used as well. 

Now, let’s get down to business and talk more about those cornhole rules! 

The Basics of Cornhole

Cornhole is most commonly played outdoors. You can play it indoors if you have enough space for it, though. Outdoors just feels right and it gives more room for play since the boards need to be spread out. Plus, you’re less likely to break any windows or anything fragile if you’re outside. 

There are two wooden boards that sit at a slight angle. They have a hole a few inches away from the top end of the board. The goal of the game is to make it through the hole, or to at least land on the board when you toss the beanbag. 

As for scoring, you don’t score any points if you miss the board. However, you get points for landing on the board. The most points occur when you make it in the hole. 

We will look more closely at the rules, but you’re ultimately going to take turns throwing bags with the other team or other player. Once you throw all the bags, you total your scores. The first player to reach exactly 21 points is the winner of the game! 

Official Rules of Cornhole

Thanks to The American Cornhole Association, there are official rules to follow. You can tweak these a little bit if you’re playing at home. However, if you play in competitions, these will be the rules that are followed. 

Following the rules is a great way to keep it fair and know you’re playing right. Take a look at this list of the simple rules: 

• The game involves either 2 or 4 players. With 2, you play 1 on 1 and with 4, you have 2 on each team. 
• Choose who throws first with a coin toss. Most players choose to throw last if they win the toss. 
• Make an underhand toss toward the other board. Take turns tossing until all bags are thrown. 
• Every bag on the board is worth 1 point.
• Every bag through the hole is worth 3 points. 
• Record scores, collect bags, and continue playing until someone reaches 21 points. 

The rules also extend to set-up and equipment. For example, cornhole boards are required to be between 47.5-48 inches long and 23.5-24 inches wide. At set-up, boards are placed facing each other, and the low ends of the board should be 27 feet apart. 

Right next to the board, you have your thrower’s box. When throwing, you cannot leave this box or step past the end of your board. That throw becomes a foul if you leave the box. 

Tips and Tricks for Beginners

If you’re just getting started, there are some tips and tricks that might help you grow your skills and be more successful. Learning how to properly toss your beanbags will significantly help your game. 

You will want to focus on just getting your toss down. Once you get comfortable tossing, you can always build on your skills by learning how to add spin, get the bag to slide, and get your arc just right. 

Here are a few simple tips as you learn to play the game! 

• Practice makes perfect, so spend time practicing your toss and your stance.
• Take note of the rules and be familiar with playing correctly.
• If you need to move the boards closer together as you learn, this is fine. You could also try smaller boards as you practice. 
• Always aim towards the middle of the board. You would be better to hit the board and potentially slide in the hole than to overshoot and miss the board. 
• Everyone has a learning curve, and building skill takes time. Patience and practice matter! 

Advanced Tricks to Build On

As you improve your game and want to take it to the next level, there are several different things you can do to continue to build your skills further. Take your game to the next level with some of these tips: 

• Consistency is key.
• Perfect the stance; it changes everything.
• Try to learn different throws and techniques.
• Always aim for your toss.
• Learn to add some spin to the toss.

Grab Your Cornhole Boards and Get to Playing!

Whether you decide to build your own cornhole boards or choose a customized cornhole set, you are now set to enjoy a great game! These cornhole rules give you the basics. You can use these to build and improve your skills over time. 

Grab your cornhole set and any fun accessories you might have, gather your friends, and start enjoying the game today!